strategies for the development of a reading culture in uganda primary schools: case studies of four selected universal primary education schools in kampala district

Description

The study was carried out with the purpose of providing strategies for developing a reading culture among pupils under the Universal Primary Education (UPE) scheme in Uganda. The study was carried out in Kampala district in four UPE schools, which included Kitante Primary School, Buganda Road Primary School, Mpererwe Primary School and Kabowa Church of Uganda Primary School. The study analysed the reading practices among pupils in UPE schools in Uganda in order to provide strategies for developing a reading culture. The objectives of the study were to establish reading practices in UPE schools, examine the major challenges faced by pupils as they read, and develop appropriate strategies to improve the reading culture among the pupils. Through use of the qualitative approach, the study employed a case study research design. Interview and observation methods were employed to collect data from pupils, teachers and head teachers. Research findings from the schools studied indicate that there was unplanned frequency of reading by pupils and the only reading that happened was limited to available reading materials and resources. However, inefficient reading materials and their accessibility, Inefficient reading facilities and non involvement of parents have inhibited the progress of reading culture among the pupils. Inadequate reading facilities and non involvement of parents inhibited the reading culture among the pupils. The study thus recommended introduction of reading in mother tongue at infant levels by encouraging pupils to read and write their own stories, availing pupils with appropriate reading materials and provision of school library services. The study further recommends the formation of book clubs in schools that would involve parents participating in reading activities in schools. In conclusion reading would be enhanced by embracing government policies or strategies like the National text book policy to ensure a lifelong learning environment in UPE schools.