School of Education Science

Introduction

High School education is an integral part in the education system in Kenya as it links the primary education to tertiary institutions. Likewise, teacher education for high school has also changed over time. Bachelor of Education encompasses curriculum and instructions, psychology, educational foundation, education management and a compulsory teaching practice. However, universities have still continued producing graduates who do not meet these qualifications. The present-day development in science and technology has led various governments to give special attention to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). STEM is now considered central in the growth and sustainability of economies and thus a critical element in the preparation for the future.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution has not only resulted in a rise in the demand for scientists, engineers and other experts, it has also led to the demand for experts with critical thinking capabilities, great innovation skills and proper science literacy. This makes a Degree in Education Science a viable program. While Education Science is offered in various tertiary institutions in the region of Eastern Africa, the rudimentary or theoretical contents remains an area where greater contribution can be advanced by an upcoming institution. As revealed by past research, the enrollment of students in science courses is not only low in science courses, but also the student performance in basic numeracy and literacy is wanting. In addition, the use of technical language bereft of proper exposure to hands on experience in the laboratory has led to a negative attitude towards science courses. In this context, The Proposed Hekima University is keen on offering a Bachelor of Science in Education Science for the formation of innovative, creative and ethical professional teachers to respond to the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

To establish The Proposed Hekima University School of Education Science (HU-SES) Program in order to strengthen high school science teachers training program on sciences.

  • To educate high school teachers to acquire skills in critical thinking, scientific innovation and effective scientific knowledge that promote efficiency and competitiveness in education sector.
  • To develop teacher trainee’s deep understanding of both content and pedagogy to be able to provide an appropriate instruction to their respective science students.
  • To expose teacher trainees to prolonged and sufficient full-time teaching experience through hands-on, experiential learning opportunities so that graduate will be ready to conduct their classrooms by themselves.
  • With the foundational knowledge from The Proposed Hekima University, the trained teachers will utilize theories, data, and research practices when making decisions in classroom.
  • To advance scientific knowledge and interests to the high school students.
  • To appreciate the benefits and limitations of science education and its application in technological developments to the young generation.

Primary beneficiaries of the program would be those with a scientific mind & a strong orientation towards research. To be admitted to the program (BSc. Education), a candidate ought to be:Holders of Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) with a minimum grade C+ (Plus) and above and C+ (plus) in the two subjects of specialization, or its recognized equivalent from the other Eastern African

  • Holders of Diploma from recognized institutions and an aggregate of C in KCSE or equivalent.
  • Holders of Mean Grade C- or equivalent plus a certificate and Diploma from a recognized
  • Holders of ‘O’ Level Division II or equivalent plus a Diploma from a recognized institution.
  • Holders of ‘O’ Level Division III or equivalent Plus a Certificate and Diploma from a recognized
  • Holders of A Level with two Principal passes or equivalent in relevant subjects.
  • Holders of a P1 certificate from a two-year post- secondary training institution recognized by
  • Holders of a Higher National Diploma in relevant fields and should have attained an aggregate of C+ in KCSE
  • Subject Combination: Each student will take two teaching subjects as required by the Teachers Service Commission in Kenya, that is, combinations of [ Mathematics & Physics; Mathematics & Biology; Mathematics & Chemistry; Computer Science & Mathematics] and any other combination after due advice by the Academic Advisor.              
  • Core Courses: The Student will take both University wide and the School of Education Science core courses requirement
  • Service Learning: Each student will engage in weekly community service where they will take at least two hours in context, helping the disadvantaged in the society. They will complete a reflection of their semester’s experience. This activity will be supervised and graded by the students’ affairs department.
  • Teaching Practice: During the long semester breaks, students will be inserted in a school context where they will engage in the life of the school including, teaching, sports and other activities they are invited to for a total of one full year before graduation.
  • Position Paper: The student will complete education program with a position paper that addresses one of the areas of education. The student needs to show good understanding of other areas of education through critical integration and application of varied aspects in the paper. The paper must show coherence, and manifest critical and analytical skills.

The School of Education Science graduates will apply their knowledge in various areas below:

  • Professional graduate teachers in both public and private schools.
  • Become Researchers in Education/Industrial/Agricultural and Technical Institutions
  • Pursue further education on advancement of science in schools
  • Policy contributors or policy makers in the education sector
  • Curriculum developers in Mathematics and Science-based subjects.

 Education administrators in both private and public schools.

The proposed school of science Education will adopt the below methods in preparing the students:

  • Classes will be taught by the flipped classroom model where scholars learn in and outside class-room.
  • There will be blended learning: physical and on-line program. It will offer opportunity for students to interact with others from local and international universities through Jesuit
  • There will also be a requirement to spend more time in the Laboratory for practical sessions.
  • Through Experiential Entrepreneurial learning model the trainees will engage in field experience and focused reflection to increase knowledge, develop skills, and evaluate personal values as a future educator.

Coming soon