Knowledge and Application of Values among Learners in Primary and Secondary Schools Kenya

Basic Education Curriculum Framework (BECF), emphasizes core values such as integrity, respect, and social justice. Despite this focus, there is a concern about the limited awareness and application of these values among learners, leading to a broader issue of inadequate value-based education. The objective of the study was to examine the knowledge and application of values among learners in primary and secondary schools in Kenya, focusing on the curriculum's role in nurturing ethical behavior and responsible citizenship. The study employed a mixed-method approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative methods. A cross-sectional survey design was used to collect data from schools across 24 counties, targeting school administrators, teachers, learners, and key informants. The sample included head teachers, teachers, learners, and stakeholders from various community sectors. Data collection instruments included questionnaires, interview schedules, and focus group discussions, with pre-testing to ensure reliability and validity. The main findings revealed that the majority of learners had limited awareness of core values, with integrity (39.9%) and respect (33.3%) being the most recognized. Despite this, learners identified several practical scenarios where they applied values, such as cleaning school compounds and respecting school rules. Teachers emerged as the most significant influencers of learners' values, followed by parents, while head teachers and relatives had a lesser impact. The study also noted that, while teachers and key informants generally agreed on the importance of nurturing values, there was uncertainty about the community's role in promoting them. In conclusion, the study indicates a need for a more integrated approach to value-based education. Recommendations include strengthening the curriculum to emphasize value-based learning, enhancing teacher training, fostering school-community partnerships, promoting consistent reinforcement of values, and implementing ongoing assessment and evaluation mechanisms.