CHAPTER ONE

1.0  Background of the study Considering the contributions of mathematics, science, and technology to today's world, one would have expected mounting interest in these disciplines, but the reverse seems to be the case. Indeed, there is declining enrolment in mathematics and science subjects among the youth, and poor performance in examinations, such as those taken in high school math and science courses (especially physics) by the brave few who enroll (Ezeife, 1999). It is ironical that in our pro-science and technologically oriented world, the youth who would take charge of global affairs in the future - the manning of industries and the means of production., research laboratories, space technology, and international politics - are shying away from the very subjects that should adequately prepare them for such roles. Improvement of the quality of education in Kenya has been a key feature of reform proposals of the government.

These educational reforms largely focus on basic education., which in Kenya covers both primary and secondary education. Attempts towards realizing these proposals have been made in many ways. Free primary education is now being offered to ensure every child has an equal opportunity to the primary education. While the government is trying to ensure this, a lot of work is being done to improve the quality of the same education. Focus is on better student achievements in all the areas covered in the syllabus at all levels.