Public Primary Schools Research Articles

A Review of the Influence of ‘Interactive Read Aloud’ on Standard one Pupils’ Vocabulary Growth and Critical Thinking in Public Primary Schools in Tanzania

A Review of the Influence of ‘Interactive Read Aloud’ on Standard one Pupils’ Vocabulary Growth and Critical Thinking in Public Primary Schools in Tanzania

The Role of Phonics Instruction in Developing Early Reading Skills in Public Primary Schools in Ikungi District, Tanzania

The Role of Phonics Instruction in Developing Early Reading Skills in Public Primary Schools in Ikungi District, Tanzania

Professional development of teachers: Perceptions and challenges of foundation phase teachers

Background: South Africa’s teacher retention crisis calls for policy makers, school leaders and teachers to explore ways for professional growth. This study examined six novice teachers’ experiences and views on continuous professional development (CPD) and how it benefits teachers as they transition from mentees to mentors.Aim: The study aimed to explore novice teachers’ engagement with CPD within the context of foundation phase (FP) teaching. It specifically investigated their understanding of CPD in communities of practice and how they preferred to be inducted, mentored and coached.Setting: This qualitative case study was conducted in six inner-city public primary schools in urban Johannesburg, South Africa.Methods: The research followed a case study design, using semi-structured interviews with six novice teachers to gather data.Results: The findings revealed the significance of informal mentorship, offering support despite the absence of formal structures in FP settings. This highlights the need for educational institutions to establish formal mentorship opportunities to promote professional development and well-being of teachers.Conclusion: CPD goes beyond fulfilling professional requirements – it empowers teachers. By upskilling and reskilling, CPD prepares teachers to meet modern teaching challenges.Contributions: This research adds to the limited literature on novice teachers’ experiences with CPD in FP. It highlights CPD’s crucial role in enhancing pedagogical strategies, supporting diverse learners, improving teacher wellness, and informing educational policy and leadership decisions.

Effectiveness of Teachers Training Program in Enhancing Teaching Competence of Public Primary School Teachers in Ilemela Municipality, Tanzania

The study aims to investigate the Effectiveness of Teachers Training Program in Enhancing Teaching Competence of Public Primary School Teachers in Ilemela Municipality, Tanzania. The problem of this study was answered by the one research questions; TCPD training programs in enhancing teaching competence. The study was guided by the Social Cognitive Theory. The current study employed convergent design under mixed research methods approach. The target population consisted of various stakeholders, including 81 public primary schools, 1,047 teachers, 19 Ward Education Officers, 81 head teachers, and 8 District quality assurers making total number of 1155 population. The sample size for the current study consisted of 16 public primary schools, 192 teachers, 16 head teachers, 6 Ward Education Officers (WEO), and 2 District School Quality Assurers (DSQA), totaling 216 respondents. Questionnaires, interview guides, and document analysis guides were used to collect data from respondents. Data collection instruments were validated by MWECAU research experts. A pilot study was conducted in two public primary schools. The reliability of questionnaires for Likert-type items was estimated using Cronbach's Alpha Coefficient whereby r= 0.889 for teachers while that of qualitative established through peer debriefing and triangulation. The study adhered to ethical considerations throughout the research process. Descriptive statistics were analyzed quantitative data using SPSS version 26. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The study found that the TCPD is highly effective in improving teaching competence through focused training on classroom management, instructional design, differentiated instruction, student engagement, and technology integration significantly improved their teaching skills. The study concluded that Continuing Professional Development (CPD) effectively Enhanced Teaching Competence of Public Primary School Teachers in Ilemela Municipality to the high extent. The study recommended that a similar training program should be implemented regularly to equip teachers with up-date skills and knowledge.

Bridging the Gap: Analysis of Factors Influencing Students’ Performance in Public Primary Schools

Bridging the Gap: Analysis of Factors Influencing Students’ Performance in Public Primary Schools

The Impact of Head teachers' Decision-Making Skills on Academic Achievement in Public Primary Schools: A Case Study of Uriri Sub-County, Migori County, Kenya

The Impact of Head teachers' Decision-Making Skills on Academic Achievement in Public Primary Schools: A Case Study of Uriri Sub-County, Migori County, Kenya

Influence of School Dynamics on the Implementation of Competency Based Curriculum in Public Primary Schools in Nandi East Sub-County, Kenya

Influence of School Dynamics on the Implementation of Competency Based Curriculum in Public Primary Schools in Nandi East Sub-County, Kenya

Impact of Parental Deprivation on Academic Success of Children: A Study of Public Primary Schools in Masaba South, Kenya

This study investigated the relationship between parental deprivation and academic achievement among children from public primary schools. Using correlation and cross-sectional study designs, data were collected from 10 schools, involving 324 randomly selected children in grades 4 and 5. Results revealed a high prevalence of parental deprivation, with significant deficits in necessities, safety, shelter, educational resources, and parental care. Most children reported problems with clothing (95.1%), food (98.8%), safety (65.9%), shelter (34.7%), education (87.3%), quality time with parents (88.2%), and parental discipline (83.6%). Parental deprivation negatively impacted academic achievement. Grade level (Adjusted β = 0.1, 95% CI [-0.8, 1.0], p = .819) and age (Adjusted β = 0.5, 95% CI [-0.1, 1.0], p = .110) showed no significant associations with absenteeism or grades. However, difficulties affording shelter were a significant negative predictor of grades (aβ = -2.7, 95% CI [-2.8, -2.6], p < .001), while spending quality time with parents positively influenced grades (aβ = 0.4, 95% CI [0.2, 0.6], p < .001). The study demonstrated the need for comprehensive interventions addressing parental deprivation's material and education achievements. Recommendations include strengthening social safety nets, enhancing educational resources, promoting positive parenting practices, and addressing economic inequalities.

Teachers' perceptions of principals’ digital leadership practices in a school district in a developing country

The fourth industrial revolution's (4IR's) disruptive digital technologies and innovations are radically altering the educational environment. The aim and structure of schooling have become progressively digital and different from the norm. Understanding principals' digital leadership practices is particularly important in the transition to digital learning as it involves navigating the digital change process in schools. This study investigated teachers' perceptions of principals' digital leadership practices in their attempts to keep up with the digital shift. Drawing on the four core principles of transformational leadership theory, the study sought to identify leadership practices that could mobilise digital learning. A generic qualitative approach was used. The study looked at three public primary schools in the Gauteng West district in South Africa. Data were generated by means of three focus group interviews with teachers and individual interviews with three principals. The findings revealed that leadership in these schools was mainly confined to conventional leadership practices which did not promote the practice of digital leadership. The findings exposed the need for principals to improve their knowledge of digital leadership in their leadership practices. The findings further highlighted the need for system-wide change in the South African education sector to support principals in transforming schools into digital learning environments. These findings contribute to the theoretical knowledge of principals' digital leadership practices.

Exploring The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Library Management at Public Primary School

The rapid development of technology has brought significant changes in various areas of life, including the world of education. AI is a rapidly developing technology with enormous potential to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of resource management. Library management, which plays a crucial role in supporting teaching and learning activities in schools, employs AI in education. However, the increasing challenges in managing collections, the demand for rapid and accurate services, and the need for effective data management have increased the need for innovation in library management. This study aimed to explore the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in library management at SDN Piyaman 2 Wonosari, emphasizing enhancing operational efficiency, accessibility, and service quality. This study employs a qualitative descriptive approach, collecting data through interviews, observations, and questionnaires from students, teachers, and library staff. The researchers will then process, analyze, and discuss the collected data to conclude. The study results indicate that using artificial intelligence (AI) can improve library operational efficiency by reducing borrowing time, returning each book, and searching from five minutes to one minute. In addition, AI also increases user satisfaction, with an average increase from 60% to 85%. Despite the technical challenges and user adjustments, the results of this study indicate that AI has enormous potential to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of school libraries. Other schools can use this study as a model to implement AI technology in library management, making it more modern and responsive to user needs.

Assessing the Performance of Primary School Information Management Systems (PReM) in Data Provision: A Focus on Two Selected Public Primary Schools at Temeke Municipal Council, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

The study aimed to assess the performance of Primary School Information Management Systems (PReM) in data provision at Dar es Salaam city. Specifically, the study aimed to determine the school-based requirements to deploy PReM for students - data collection, examine the impacts of PReM utilization, and explore stakeholders feeling on the use of PReM in education aspects from Mtoni Kijichi and Bwawani Primary School at Temeke Municipality, This study was guided by Information Systems Theory and Data Quality Theory. The study adopted a cross-sectional design collecting quantitative data through surveys and questionnaires. Interview and documentary review were utilized to collect the qualitative data. The study adopted non-probability and purposive sampling techniques for selecting 399 respondents (School pupils, parents, academic teachers, Ward Executive Officers, and Examination Administration and Certification Directorate staff) from the total population within the study area. Descriptive statistics (frequency), thematic and multiple linear regression models were used for analysis. Research findings from specific objective one portray that hardware with high capability has been purchased, stakeholder involvement before launching any information management system is important, and the implementation of the system must comply with regulations and pilot conducting before full implementation. Moreover, on the impacts of PReM utilization towards accuracy data provision, multiple linear regression results divulge that the independent variables (reduced workload, time savings, improved monitoring, data-driven interventions, enhanced learning outcomes, data accuracy as well as security and privacy) lead the positive relationship with PReM performance. Furthermore, respondents had positive feelings concerning the use of PReM in education aspects. The study conclude that availability of adequate hardware (Computers, tablets, and servers), reliable internet connectivity, robust network infrastructure, and compatibility with existing school management systems are the main school-based requirements for PReM deployment in student data collection. The study recommended that National Examinations Council of Tanzania (NECTA) in collaboration with MoEST had to ensure improved PReM infrastructure and training programs for smooth integration and better school management and performance.

Single Parental Status: Effects on Learners’ Emotional Behaviour in Public Primary Schools in Kanduyi Sub County, Kenya

The family is the stimulus behind the growth and development of an individual. Children emerge from different parental status, this include intact and single parental status. However in schools, learners from single parenthood display different emotional behaviour compared to those from intact parenthood. The objective of the study was to establish the effects of single parental status on learners’ emotional behaviour. The study was guided by family systems theory and adopted comparative research design. The study targeted a total of 458 participants, including 440 standard eight learners (212 boys and 228 girls), 9 class teachers, and 9 guidance and counseling teachers from 9 public primary schools in Kanduyi Sub County, Bungoma County. The standard eight learners were selected due to their unique experiences and maturation, as well as their physical, mental, and emotional development, which enabled them to express themselves in a manner that was comparable to that of their peers in other classes. Stratified random sampling was used to obtain participants according to their gender; simple random sampling was used to give equal chance to all learners to participate in the study. Purposive sampling was employed to select class teachers and Guidance and Counselling teachers as key informants on matters concerning learners. Questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data. The study utilised content validity while reliability of the instruments was established by cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.697. Simple linear regression was used to analyse data. Data analysis revealed a statistically significant effect of single parenting on learners emotional behaviour F (1,198=4.731, p<0.05. The findings revealed that single parenting negatively affected learner emotional behaviour since the p-value<0.05 hence the null hypothesis rejected. The study recommended for effective guidance and counselling services for learners from single parental status to help them improve on their emotional behaviour such as low self-esteem, aggression and anxiety while in school.

Influence of Family-Related Truancy on Pupils’ Academic Performance in Public Primary School in Kakamega Central Sub-County, Kenya

Education is a continuous process of structured instruction aimed at achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through pupils’ academic performance. However, Kenyan primary schools encounter persistent challenges, including low grades, behavioral issues, lack of engagement, and difficulties in mastering basic academic skills, raising significant concerns. Thus, the purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of family-related truancy on pupils’ academic performance in public primary school in Kakamega Central Sub-County, Kenya. The study was anchored on Hirschi (1969) social control theory. The study employed a descriptive survey research design, targeting768 respondents, including 67 deputy head teachers 134 pupils and 567 class teachers. The sample size comprised 256 individuals, consisting of 24 head teachers, 45 pupils and 205 class teachers, selected using a stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected through validated questionnaires and interview guides, with instrument reliability confirmed via a pilot study, demonstrating a Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient of 0.74. Quantitative data underwent descriptive and inferential statistical analysis, presented in tables, while qualitative data were analyzed for common themes, organized, and discussed within the study’s main objective areas, with relevant quotations used to present findings. The research findings indicated a statistically significant correlation (p=0.00 at α = 0.05) between causes of family-related truancy and pupils’ academic performance in public primary schools. Therefore, it is recommended that education policymakers devise and execute comprehensive guidelines and support systems to effectively manage and mitigate the various causes of truancy stemming from family. The information provided by this study will benefit policymakers, community members and academicians.

INFLUENCE OF TEACHERS’ PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF LEARNERS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENT (VI) IN INTEGRATED PUBLIC PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA

The purpose of this study was to influence teachers’ professional qualifications on the academic performance of learners with visual impairment (VI) in integrated public primary schools in Nairobi County, Kenya. The research assumed an expressive survey design exploiting quantitative techniques. The targeted audience was 206 respondents, whereas the sample population would be 68 respondents comprising four head teachers, 31 teachers and 33 learners with VI. The research was conducted in integrated community primary schools in Nairobi municipality. Purposive sampling was employed to select 31 teachers from the four integrated public primary schools. For the learners with VI, convenience sampling was used to select 33 out of 98 available learners across the four schools. All 4 head teachers from the selected schools were included in the study using purposive sampling. Piloting allowed the researcher to test the clarity, relevance, and comprehensiveness of the questions and items included in the questionnaires and observation checklists. The research employed both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques. Quantitative data was analyzed and coded using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS V 23.0). The findings showed that at least half of teachers had received training on special education; only about a third lacked formal training and had no training on special education. Most of them, followed by teachers with bachelor's degrees, Diploma education had certificate P1, master's degree, and diploma PGDE, while only a tiny fraction had PhD qualifications. The study concluded that professional qualification significantly influenced the academic performance of learners with VI, braille proficiency of teachers significantly influences the academic performance of learners with VI, and ICT integration has improved the quality of assessment in school, thus advancing the academic performance of learners with VI. The study recommended that the government needs to put down measures to ensure adequate assessment instruments for the learner and offer the necessary training to teachers on adequately using the instruments. Policymakers and education stakeholders should formulate policies ensuring that most teachers receive special education when dealing with learners with VI and other disabilities.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0736/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Extensiveness of Teachers’ Workload in Determining the Acquisition of Kiswahili Reading Skills Among Pupils in Public Primary Schools in Tanga City Council, Tanzania

The study investigated the extensiveness of teachers’ workload in determining the acquisition of Kiswahili reading skills among public primary school pupils in Tanga City Council, Tanzania. The study employed a convergent design under mixed methods research approach to collect both quantitative and qualitative data simultaneously and compare the results to obtain a more complete understanding of the research problem. The study targeted 80 public primary schools, 80 head teachers, 264 Kiswahili subject teachers, 24 Ward Education Officer and 1 City Council Primary Education Officer. Both probability and non-probability sampling techniques were employed to obtain respondents who participated in this study. The study involved 8 public primary schools, 8 head teachers, 88 Kiswahili reading skills teachers, 8 WEO and 1 CCPEO. Data were collected using questionnaires, and interview guide. Data collection instruments were validated by Mwenge Catholic University research experts. A pilot study was conducted in two public secondary schools. The reliability of questionnaires for Likert scale items was determined using Cronbach's Alpha Coefficient where reliability coefficient r= 0.892 for Kiswahili subject teachers questionnaire was obtained. The reliability for qualitative data was established through peer debriefing and triangulation. The study adhered to research ethical principles throughout the research process. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics particularly using frequencies, percentages and mean with the aid of SPSS Version 22. The study concludes that due to their overwhelming responsibilities, teachers find it challenging to give students timely and insightful feedback on their reading progress. Teachers find it challenging to plan and implement enjoyable reading activities that would greatly enhance their pupils Kiswahili reading skills. Teachers are unable to give each pupils the individualized support and attention they need to improve their reading skills in Kiswahili, leaving them with little time and energy. The study recommends that heads of public primary schools can support teachers in working less by making sure that teachers have enough time to plan, organize, assign reading tasks, and help pupils who are failing with learning. The administration of public primary school should make sure that the school has enough teaching and learning resources for Kiswahili reading instruction.

Effects of Repeated Reading Approach on Primary 3 Pupils in Public-Primary Schools in Central Nigeria

The study looked at the effects of repeated reading approach on primary three pupils reading in Pankshin Local Government Area of Plateau State, North Central Nigeria and was carried out in five (5) different public schools located in the rural areas of the Local Government. The main objective of the study was to significantly remedy the reading challenges of primary 3 pupils by increasing their reading ability. The study was a true experimental design of pre-test and post-test with a sample of 110 pupils. The study was conducted within one academic session: September 2022 – July 2023. Means, standard deviation and ANCOVA using IBM SPPS version 22 and Microsoft Excel Spread sheet were used. The study revealed that pupils achieved a significant level of fluency in their reading ability, and it recommended the use of the Repeated Reading Approach to teach learners who have challenges with reading in primary schools.

Preparedness of Public Primary Schools in Tanzania for Educational Reform Implementation: A Case of Mbulu Town Council

This study was conducted to assess the preparedness of public primary schools in Mbulu Town Council, Tanzania for the implementation of educational reforms. The study employed a convergent design within a mixed-methods approach, utilizing questionnaires administered to teachers and interviews conducted with head teachers and ward education officers. Findings indicate that teachers are somewhat prepared for reform implementation, with engagement in self-directed learning and awareness of educational reforms. However, challenges such as inadequate teaching and learning resources were highlighted, including shortages of classrooms and books. Ward education officers, trained on the reforms, have been instrumental in disseminating knowledge to teachers. Overall, while there is moderate preparedness, addressing resource inadequacies and providing comprehensive training is essential for successful reform implementation in public primary schools. The study recommends consistent provision of resources and comprehensive training programs to enhance readiness and ensure uniform implementation of reforms.

Audio-visual Media Instructional Use and Its Effect on Reading Competences among Grade Two Pupils in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya

ABSTRACT The main purpose of this study was to evaluate audio visual media instructional use and its effect on reading competences among grade two pupils in Maara sub county, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. The study sought to identify the audio-visual resources available for teaching and learning reading competences, investigate extent to which teachers use the available audio-visual media, examine the challenges faced by teachers and learners in use of audiovisual media in teaching and learning reading competences and assess the learners reading abilities. The French Bell system Theory and a descriptive survey design were adopted in this study. Simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used to select 330 learners, 30 head teachers and 30 teachers, making a sample size of 390 respondents. The research instruments were questionnaires, interviews schedules, reading examination for grade two learners and classroom observation. Piloting of the research instruments was done in one public primary schools. The reliability of the research instruments was measured using a Cronbach's Alpha statitistic. The collected data was analyzed using Statistical package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and presented using tables, percentages frequencies and other descriptive statistics. Descriptive statistics revealed that schools have limited computers (average 2.90 per school) with a low student-to-computer ratio (1:10). Tablets are more prevalent (average 19.17 per school), but functionality issues reduce their effectiveness. Projectors and mobile phones are more commonly available but are still not sufficiently utilized in classroom learning. The data on the competence of learners to read appears to be symmetrically distributed with the competence of learners tapering off at the tail ends. This implies that most of the learners on average could read between 21-69 words per minute. However, there are significant disparities in reading abilities among learners, with a notable percentage performing below expectations. This disparity highlights the need for targeted interventions to support learners who are struggling and to bridge the competence gap across different schools. The reliability statistics for variables testing on teacher’s attitude in the use of Audio-visual media, for variables testing on challenges in the use of audio-visual media and for variables testing on the classroom observation performance indicators, were 0.969, 0.981 and 0.944 respectively. The reliability statistics on all the research instruments was 0.990. A Cronbach's Alpha of 0.70 (70%) or higher reveals a strong internal consistency of a series of questions integrated to form a single scale measured by the coefficient. The study recommends the government to integrate digital learning in schools and ensure schools are fully equipped with an access to electricity and network connectivity. Ministry of Education to develop teachers’ capacity on the use of digital devices. The study also recommends the Kenya institute of Curriculum Development to develop a curriculum in line with competency based curriculum provided in digital devices. Lastly curriculum support officers and head teachers to support teachers to make use of available audio visual resources for teaching and learning.

Analyzing Perception of Administrators and Teachers on Management of Schools by Values (Kızıltepe Case)

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to analyze the perception of administrators and teachers related to the management of schools according to values in terms of variables of gender, age, seniority, grade, school type, school region and profession type. Design/Methodology/Approach: The research was conducted using mixed method. The population consists of 3338 administrators and teachers working in public and private primary, secondary and high schools in Kızıltepe district of Mardin in the 2021-2022 academic year. The sample of the quantitative part consists of 340 participants determined by simple random sampling technique, while the study group of the qualitative part consists of 10 administrators and 10 teachers selected by maximum diversity technique. The data for the quantitative dimension was collected using the "Management by Values Scale" developed by Yılmaz (2006). To collect the data of the qualitative dimension, a semi-structured interview form developed by the researcher and consisting of six questions was used. T-test was used for the variables of gender, profession type, school region and school type and ANOVA was used for the variables of age, seniority and grade. Tukey Test was used to determine the source of the values which have significant differences. Content analysis was used for qualitative data. Findings: As a result of the analysis of both qualitative and quantitative data, it has been found that the participants have a positive perception about the management of schools according to values. However, no significant difference has been found between the groups according to the variables of gender, age, grade, school type, school region and type of profession. A significant difference has been found between the groups with 1-5 years and 11-15 years of working experience in the seniority variable. Highlights: According to the data obtained from the research and also the literature review, it has been concluded that teachers and administrators have a positive perception that schools are managed according to values. There should be programs to educate managers since there is a substantial need for this based on this research.

How Prepared are Ethiopian English Teachers to Teach Early Grade Reading?

Purpose. This paper examines how prepared Ethiopian public primary school English teachers are to teach early grade reading. Methodology. A descriptive research design of mixed methods was employed. A sample of 125 English teachers in 20 randomly selected primary schools in Hawassa City Administration was the source of data. The researchers employed a knowledge assessment test, focus group discussions, and questionnaires to gather the necessary data. The analysis of quantitative data was carried out by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 25.0). Results. It has been learned from the findings that primary English teacher preparation paid little attention to coursework and practicum to teach early reading. The results also revealed that English teachers felt somewhat prepared to teach early grade reading. There is serious knowledge limitation among English teachers that (12)9.6% of primary English teachers scored 50% and above, whereas (113)90.4% of teachers scored below 50%; the teachers’ average knowledge test score was 36.4%. The results have clearly indicated that it is statistically significant, the direct relationship among teacher preparation coursework emphasis, practicum attention statistically significant, direct relationship among teacher preparation coursework emphasis, practicum attention, and teachers’ felt preparedness at (p=0.001). Conclusions. The results have led to the conclusion that teacher preparation, both in its coursework and practicum, did not pay due attention to teaching early grade reading. That is, primary English teachers were inadequately prepared to teach early grade reading. Based on the results of this study, to improve the practice of early literacy instruction, English teachers’ knowledge and skills gaps need to be duly addressed. Further studies that investigate the current practice of early literacy teacher preparation and professional development should be conducted with a larger sample size and diverse contexts.