Teacher Quality and Student Achievement in Physics in Secondary Schools of Rangwe Division, Homa-Bay District, Nyanza Province of Kenya

ABSTRACT As an experimental science, physics utilizes the scientific method to formulate and test hypothesis that are based on the natural world. The goal of physics is to use these experiments to formulate scientific laws, usually expressed in the language of mathematics, which can be used to predict other phenomena The purpose of this study therefore was to investigate the effect of the physics- teacher quality on the academic achievement in physics of students in the selected schools of Rangwe Division, Homa-Bay District of Kenya. Actually, the problem is not with the subject matter as per say, but majorly with the relationship of the subject with the community, and the views physics upholds in its face. The objectives of the study were; to determine if teachers motivation affects academic performance of students in physics in Rangwe Division, to determine whether teacher qualification affects academic achievement of students in physics in Rangwe Division, and to investigate whether facilities at school affects academic performance of students in physics in Rangwe Division. The methods used for data collection were questionnaires to the teachers and interview guide to the headmasters of the schools which participated in the study.