Title:
INFLUENCE OF DIGITAL TOOLS ON ENGLISH LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN MAARA SUB-COUNTY, THARAKA NITHI COUNTY, KENYA

Authors:
Njeru K. Brenda, Ogembo J. (PhD) and Kariuki M. (PhD), Kenya

Abstract:
This study was on the influence of the use of digital tools in English language instruction in Maara sub- county, Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya. English language instruction is a vital component of the education systems across the globe as the ability to proficiently communicate in English opens up a number of opportunities for individuals in terms of accessing higher education and broadening one’s world from job opportunities to the ability to relate with people from different countries and cultures. The study concentrated on the influence of the use of digital tools on English language instruction in public secondary schools in Maara sub-county Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The study population for the study was 7025 including 208 form three teachers of English, 67 head of English subject department and 6750 form 3 students enrolled in public secondary schools that were located in various divisions within Maara sub-county. The sample size utilized in the study was 379 including 327 students, 39 teachers of English and 13 head of English subject teachers. Data was collected by the use of questionnaires for students and teachers of English and interviews for head of English language subject in various schools. Quantitative data was cleaned, coded and then analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. For qualitative data, data was coded and thematic analysis conducted. The findings of the study showed that the use of digital tools in English language instruction significantly influenced English language instruction.