An Analysis of Factors Influencing Female Students’ Pursuit of Postgraduate Studies: A Case of Daystar University Nairobi, Kenya
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Date
2016-06
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Publisher
Daystar University, School of Applied Human Sciences
Abstract
In this 21st century, higher education is the core of every development in a given country. Institutes of higher education are recognized as the key sectors in development worldwide. If more female are encouraged to pursue higher education, the economy and social development would see remarkable progress. This study aimed at analysing the factors that contribute to the pursuit of postgraduate studies by the female students. Specifically, the study examined extrinsic and intrinsic factors that influenced female students to pursue postgraduate studies, challenges faced and strategies that could be implemented by universities to attract more female students. The study used both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Secondary data, questionnaires and interview guide were used for data collection. The target population comprised female postgraduate students in Daystar University pursuing both PhD & Masters. Simple and stratified random sampling methods were used to select sample respondents totalling to 145 masters and 8 continuing PhD female students. Findings were presented through descriptive statistics by use of frequencies, tables, graphs and pie charts. Data analysis and interpretation was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version Windows 20.0. Conceptual framework showing relationship between the independent and dependant variables was illustrated. Key findings indicated that female students pursuing postgraduate studies were influenced by internal and external factors. Study found out that 91.7% of respondents agreed that the desire to fulfil professional objectives motivated pursue postgraduate studies. Study concluded that support to the female students by universities through holding female forums would assist address female challenges. Recommendations for further research was made on evaluation of the courses offered at Daystar University whether they influenced female pursuit of postgraduate studies.
Description
MASTER OF ARTS
in Monitoring and Evaluation
Keywords
Higher Education