The Influence of Socio-cultural Dynamics on the Selection of Language Instructional Resources in Selected Secondary Schools in Starehe Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya

Abstract

Social sustainability equips learners with knowledge and skills that increase their sensitivity to social values like equal opportunity and multicultural awareness, hence fostering positive action without discrimination. The Ministry of Education seeks to include more social-related concerns in the curriculum. Building resilience through social focus addresses poverty and inequality, advancing the cause of social sustainability that is inclusive and empowering for the citizenry. The purpose of the study is to examine the influence of socio-cultural dynamics on the selection of language resources and identify essential areas to address social sustainability in the language curriculum. It is limited by a lack of national data on socio-cultural dynamics.  The study adopted a mixed-methods plan and descriptive survey research design. Participants were selected by purposive and simple random sampling. Data sources are interviews, questionnaires and a document guide. Quantitative data are analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression.  Some p-values of 0.000 were noted within socio-cultural dynamics such as social sustainability in the anthem, learning that is co-engaged, lifelong and culturally specific as strong predictor variables. Qualitative data is presented thematically. The study identified socio-cultural dynamics influencing the selection of language resources. These include social sustainability within the school’s mission statement/anthem, developing adaptable and active global citizens, promoting gender equality, co-engaged, culturally specific and lifelong learning, locally relevant projects, respecting human rights and dignity, showing interdependence, encouraging participation/cooperation, empathy and multiple perspectives.  Topics like social justice, multicultural awareness, tolerance, human rights, freedom, human dignity and democratic governance need to be addressed. Themes in change and crisis management, high-level thinking and relationship building are lacking.