Objectives of Teaching English in Kenyan Secondary Schools and Their Contribution to National Education Goals
Introduction
English, as an official language in Kenya, holds a crucial role in the education system, fostering communication, cognitive development, and global citizenship. The objectives behind teaching English in secondary schools in Kenya align with the broader national education goals, contributing to the holistic development of Kenyan students and the nation's progress.
Objectives of Teaching English in Secondary Schools
1. Communication
- Enhance students' proficiency in oral and written communication skills, enabling them to express themselves effectively.
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities through various forms of writing and speaking.
- Foster interpersonal skills and collaboration through group work and discussions.
Contribution to National Education Goals:
- Literacy and Numeracy: By promoting communication skills, English contributes to the literacy and numeracy goals of education, empowering students with essential communication tools.
- Moral and Ethical Values: Communication facilitates the transmission of cultural values, enabling students to develop a strong moral compass and ethical decision-making abilities.
2. Cognitive Development
- Stimulate higher-order thinking skills, such as analysis, synthesis, and evaluation.
- Enhance comprehension, memory, and critical reasoning abilities through the study of literary texts and non-fiction passages.
- Develop creativity and imagination through writing and storytelling.
Contribution to National Education Goals:
- Cognitive Development: English fosters cognitive development, nurturing students' intellectual capacities and preparing them for lifelong learning.
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: The analytical and reasoning skills developed through English enhance students' ability to solve problems and make informed decisions.
3. Global Citizenship
- Provide exposure to global perspectives and world cultures through literary works and non-fiction texts.
- Promote intercultural understanding and empathy by fostering respect for diverse cultures.
- Develop language proficiency that facilitates communication and interactions with people from different backgrounds.
Contribution to National Education Goals:
- National Identity and Patriotism: By connecting students with global cultures, English reinforces their national identity while instilling a sense of belonging and pride in their country.
- Global Perspectives: English broadens students' horizons, preparing them to navigate the interconnected world and contribute to global conversations.
4. Cultural Appreciation
- Develop an appreciation for Kenyan and world literature, fostering a love for reading and literary aesthetics.
- Promote cultural understanding and preservation by exploring the values, beliefs, and traditions embedded in literary works.
- Foster respect and tolerance for diverse cultural expressions.
Contribution to National Education Goals:
- National Identity and Patriotism: English contributes to preserving and celebrating Kenyan culture, strengthening students' sense of heritage.
- Cultural Diversity and Heritage: By exposing students to diverse literary voices, English fosters an appreciation for cultural heritage and diversity, promoting inclusivity and respect.
5. Appreciation for the Arts
- Develop an appreciation for various forms of literature, including poetry, drama, and fiction.
- Enhance aesthetic sensibilities and creativity through exposure to literary language and storytelling techniques.
- Foster critical engagement with artistic expressions and their impact on society.
Contribution to National Education Goals:
- Creativity and Innovation: English stimulates imagination, fostering creativity and innovation as students engage with literary works and create their own writing.
- Aesthetic Development: English enriches students' aesthetic sensibilities, contributing to their overall personal development and well-being.
Conclusion
The objectives of teaching English in secondary schools in Kenya are intricately linked to the broader national education goals. By fostering communication, cognitive development, global citizenship, cultural appreciation, and an appreciation for the arts, English empowers Kenyan students to become effective communicators, critical thinkers, responsible citizens, and culturally sensitive individuals. As such, the teaching of English in secondary schools plays a vital role in shaping the future of Kenya by preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century globalized world.