Total Quality Management Practices and their Influence on Curriculum Implementation: Experiences from Selected High Schools in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore the influence of Total Quality Management practices on new secondary school curriculum framework (2015-2022)’s teaching and learning activities in a selected district in Zimbabwe. The study had two main objectives: to explain the relevance of Total Quality Management practices in teaching and learning activities and to establish approaches that are used when integrating Total Quality Management practices in teaching and learning activities. The research was based on a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, to allow for integrated analysis procedures by the researchers. For this study, the sample comprised 110 respondents from 10 purposively selected secondary schools. Data was collected through the use of literature method, semi-structured questionnaire, and interviews. Numerical data was analysed through the use of frequencies and percentages, with the non-numerical data being analysed according to emerging themes. The analysed data revealed that Total Quality Management practices were relevant in the implementation of the new high school curriculum implementation. The results revealed that Total Quality Management practices can be used in the implementation of the new high school curriculum. In addition, the analysed data revealed some of the approaches that can be used in the implementation of the new high school curriculum. In conclusion, Total Quality Management practices have an influence on the quality of interactions in the new high school curriculum’s teaching and learning activities. Therefore, the findings of this study will guide the revision of education policies to improve teaching and learning practices that prioritize the needs of students.