Benefits of Information and Communication Technology in Managing Student Discipline: A Mixed‑Methods Study From Rural Kenya

Abstract

Student indiscipline remains a persistent challenge in Kenyan secondary schools, manifesting in absenteeism, violence, and destruction of property. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) offers potential solutions, yet empirical evidence on its perceived benefits for discipline management is limited, particularly in rural contexts. This study investigated the benefits of ICT tools in promoting student discipline in public secondary schools in Igembe North Sub County, Meru County, Kenya. A descriptive cross sectional survey was conducted with 241 respondents comprising principals, deputy principals, teachers, and school captains. Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire with Likert scale items measuring five benefit dimensions, and qualitative data were gathered through open ended questions. Descriptive statistics (means, standard deviations, rankings) and thematic analysis were employed. The highest ranked benefit was improved monitoring of student behaviour (M = 3.15, SD = 0.68), followed by enhanced timely reporting and feedback (M = 3.05, SD = 0.64) and better record keeping (M = 2.98, SD = 0.62). Qualitative themes included faster response to misconduct, easier record retrieval, and quicker parent teacher communication. A mean of 6.2 discipline cases were managed using ICT, indicating active but variable use. The benefits variable demonstrated a perfect normal fit on Q Q plot, supporting parametric assumptions. However, benefits were unevenly experienced across schools and stakeholder positions; teachers rated benefits higher than principals, and preventive benefits (early identification of at risk students) were lowest ranked. The study concludes that while ICT benefits are clearly perceived, they remain process oriented and contingent on infrastructure, training, and contextual factors. Recommendations include sustained professional development and investment in proactive ICT applications.