Digital Commons Network^™

Exploring Teachers’ Understandings Of School-Based Professional Learning In A Tanzanian Secondary School, Rehema J. Mwakabenga,, Sally Elizabeth Hansen Associate Professor, Alison Sewell

Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences

Teachers can positively engage in professional learning if they are knowledgeable about its processes and the roles they can play in it. However, teachers often lack a clear understanding of what constitutes effective professional learning practices and they are often unsupported to engage in it. This paper reports on part of a larger study that explored Tanzanian teachers’ understandings of professional learning prior to participating in a school-based professional learning (SBPL) model. This teacher-led model of professional learning supported four secondary school teachers to engage in a professional learning inquiry based on the needs of their students. Qualitative research methods, …

Teaching For Critical Thinking: Perceptions And Practices Of Chinese Elementary School Teachers, Patrick Severine Kavenuke

Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences

In recent years, researchers have shown an increased interest in studying about critical thinking. Individuals with critical thinking are self-confident, and can listen and learn from others. This study examined the perceptions of Chinese elementary school teachers on critical thinking. It also examined how they teach to develop critical thinking among pupils. The study employed a qualitative approach. In particular, a case study design was used to examine the research questions. The study was conducted at Dong Bei Wang Zhong Xin Xiao Xue (东北旺中心小学), an elementary school in Beijing, China, located in HaiDian district, using a sample of 6 English …

Access To Educational Publications And The Copyright Law In Tanzania: Revisiting The Underlying Opposing Interests, Saudin J. Mwakaje

Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences

In Tanzania, the right to education is guaranteed under the Constitution. For such a right to be effective, easy access to educational publications is a key factor. However, these publications are a subject of copyright protection; hence users must obtain prior permission before use. The copyright law has provisions for free use or fair use, which is intended to allow certain prescribed uses without prior authorization of the author, such as use for educational purposes. In Tanzania, the enactment of the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Licensing of Reproduction and Rental Rights) Regulations in 2014 has presented a new legal dynamic …

Commencement 2020, Taylor University

Commencement

The program of the 2020 Annual Commencement of Taylor University, May 15, 2020.

The Effectiveness Of Library Instruction For Graduate/Professional Students: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis, Adelia B. Grabowsky, Liza J. Weisbrod

Georgia International Conference on Information Literacy

Library instruction to improve information literacy (IL) is often considered essential only for undergraduates. However, students in graduate/professional programs do not always have the requisite skills needed for graduate level study and research, which suggests they may also benefit from library instruction targeted specifically to graduate students. This study used a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effectiveness of library instruction for increasing IL skills and/or knowledge among graduate and professional students. The authors searched seven databases to identify studies published in English between 2000 and 2019 that reported on library instruction for graduate or professional students, and objectively …

An Assessment Of The Role Of Clinical Supervision In Improving The Quality Of Teaching: A Case Study Of A Secondary School In Kilifi North Sub-County, Kenya, Hurriet Riziki Karani

Master of Education

The quality of teaching is greatly dependent on the supervision approach employed. Clinical supervision is very pivotal in developing the teachers’ pedagogical techniques, which improves the quality of teaching, culminating into improved learners’ outcome. Clinical supervision, introduced in 2016 as part of the TPAD requirements, was meant to develop teachers’ pedagogical skills and practices in order to improve the quality of teaching. However, it was received with a lot of hostility as it is seen as deficiency detecting and spying tool. The study therefore assessed the role of clinical supervision in improving the quality of teaching in a secondary school …

Mathematical Symbolization: Students’ Proficiency In Using Symbols, Peter Okoth Oyoo

Master of Education

This study examined the students’ proficiency in using mathematical symbols. The study objectives explored how learners connect symbols and their meanings, find out how learners use mathematical symbols in problem solving and ways in which learners’ problem-solving goals, activities and organization of results are influenced by mathematical symbols. The study was conducted in a public secondary school in Rarieda Sub-county in Western part of Kenya. It employed a qualitative approach with case study research design. The sampling techniques used to identify research location and recruit participants included convenience, purposive and stratified sampling where 2 secondary mathematics teachers and 8 secondary …

Mobile Application For Summative Assessment Of Language Literacies In Primary Education In Tanzania, Musa Saimon

Master of Education

Summative assessment of language literacies in Tanzanian primary education is based on paper-pencil. This kind of assessment limits learners from being assessed in other significant aspects of literacies such as oral, digital, and listening skills, which results in learners‟ lack of proficiency in using language, especially the English language. As an effort to improve the current situation, the present study explored the possibility of using mobile applications in summative language assessment of primary education in Tanzania. The study adopted a qualitative research approach and participatory action research design in which the researcher underwent three stages: reconnaissance, planning, and action. The …

Examining The Integration Of Information And Communication Technology By Chemistry Teachers In Ndhiwa Sub-County, Kenya, David Omondi Olela

Master of Education

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) can transform teaching and learning. It can improve collaborative learning, creative and critical thinking, active learning environment, and transform the classroom into a learner-centred environment for active knowledge acquisition and deepening of understanding. However, the pace of integrating ICT in education has been relatively slow compared to other sectors such as banking and financial services. This study explored how chemistry teachers integrate ICT in teaching and learning in Ndhiwa Sub-County, Kenya using a mixed-methods research design. In phase one data on ICT implementation strategies, learning activities, and challenges teachers faced while integrating ICT in education …

The Effects Of Streaming Secondary School Students According To Their Academic Performance In Hai District, Kilimanjaro, Tunzoely Kikaho

Master of Education

This study explored the effects of streaming students according to their academic abilities by assessing the positive and negative effects associated with such conduct. A qualitative research approach with a case study design was adopted. The study sample size comprised of three teachers (One academic teacher, and two classroom teachers) who were purposively sampled; and 16 form two students who were stratified sampled. The interview guide, focus group discussion guide and document analysis protocol were employed as data collection instruments. The study found that streaming increases inequalities between students as students in lower classes are being labeled hence feel inferior …

Investigating Primary School Teacher’S Knowledge Of Creating And Using Rubrics To Improve Learning: A Case Of Public Primary Schools, Kisumu County In Kenya, Cecilia Awuor

Master of Education

Assessing learners using rubrics is an essential tool in the current competency-based curriculum being rolled out in Kenya. There are however limited studies in Kenya investigating teacher's knowledge of creating and using rubrics for assessment. To fill this gap, a case study of two primary schools was conducted in Kisumu Central Zone. This study aimed to investigate primary school teacher's knowledge of creating and using rubrics to improve learning in public primary schools. The study's research questions were framed to find out if teachers knew about creating and using rubrics. Data was collected using unstructured questions on the interview guide …

Exploring Teachers’ Formative Assessment Practices In Improving Biology Learning And Performance: A Case Of Selected Community Secondary School In Moshi Municpality, Beatitude Jackson Mrema

Master of Education

The purpose of the study was to explore current formative assessment practices by Biology teachers and how these practices influence learning and performance in Biology. The study involved a case study in a single selected community ordinary level secondary school in Moshi municipality. It purposively involved two biology teachers from non-examination classes and twenty students. Qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews which involved the teachers, classroom observations, focus group discussion with the students and document review and analysis. The data was transcribed verbatim, then coded and themes generated through thematic analysis. The study findings revealed that: biology teachers use …

An Exploration Of How Teachers Deal With Secondary School Students’ Errors And Misconceptions In Mathematics Teaching And Learning In Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, Zaituni Otindo Ali

Master of Education

Errors are a common phenomenon in the mathematics classroom. It is therefore, important that the teacher has the knowledge of being able to unravel the errors in the course of curriculum implementation as well as employ strategies that are appropriate in alleviating these errors. This study explored how mathematics teachers deal with students’ errors and misconceptions in the teaching and learning of mathematics in secondary schools in Tanzania. The research questions guiding data collection sought to establish some of the error’s students make, ways in which teachers identify those errors and the instructional strategies that teachers employ to alleviate those …

Head Teachers’ Views Of Instructional Leadership: A Case Study Of Four Primary School Head Teachers In Kitgum Municipal Council, Uganda, Olanya Michael West

Master of Education

Instructional leadership practice has become a widely acknowledged leadership approach in the 21st century which is said to have impressive effect in improving academic achievements of learners. This study sought to explore primary school head teachers’ views of their instructional leadership practices in Kitgum Municipal Council, Uganda. The study employed a qualitative research approach and adopted a case study design in which purposeful sampling of four primary school head teachers was done for investigation from four primary schools in Kitgum Municipal Council, Uganda. Data collection methods included one on one semi structured interviews, document analysis and observations. The findings revealed …

Exploring The Influence Of Language Teachers’ Experiences Of Learning Language On Their Teaching Practices, Paul Kinuthia Mwangi

Master of Education

Numerous studies have been conducted to understand why teachers teach in the way to do. Whilst a number of reasons have been given, none has been emphatically conclusive about what influences teachers to adopt certain teaching practices. Even though initial teacher preparation has been identified as a core influencing factor, it has also been observed that teachers teach in ways that do not take into account their teacher preparation experiences. This study therefore, explored how Kiswahili and English language teachers’ experiences of learning language have influenced their teaching practices. The study employed a qualitative approach and adopted a narrative inquiry …

An Exploration Of The Use Of Spoken English In Diploma Teacher Education Colleges: A Case Of Southern Highlands Zone Of Tanzania, Rizick Nyambo Onani

Master of Education

This study explored the use of spoken English in the context of a Tanzanian Diploma Teacher Education and preparation College (DTEC) where English mediates instruction and communications. Through a rapid ethnographic case study, it interviewed the College Principal, Academic Dean, Student Teachers’ Representatives, observed lessons and shadowed teacher trainees for interaction for data collection. The findings show that the use of spoken English in the DTEC is deterred by the persistent use of Kiswahili, Kiswahili/English codeswitching, noninteractive teaching methods and poor English language background. However, the college has initiated programs for promoting the use and speaking in English such as …

Investigating Classroom Practices: Development Of Learners’ Social And Emotional Oracy Skills. A Case Of One Secondary School In Iringa District – Tanzania, Joel Wanguba

Master of Education

Schools represent the first interactional environment after home. Teachers signify a point of reference for learners and impact their social and emotional development through the way teachers display social and emotional skills in the classroom, encourage student-teacher interaction, and manage and organise the classroom. The main objective of this study was to investigate how teachers develop social and emotional oracy skills in a Form One classroom. Specifically, the study investigated teachers’ perceptions on the social and emotional oracy skills, factors that facilitate the development of learners’ social and emotional oracy skills in the classroom, strategies teachers use to develop students’ …

Managing Science Teachers’ Adoption Of The 2005 Tanzanian Inquiry And Student-Centred Curriculum: Revealing Schoolbased Leaders’ Practices And Achievements, Noel Mark Makwinya

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

Many countries have made considerable changes to their education systems in response to the forces of globalisation. Tanzania is no exception. The most recent educational change attempt in Tanzania relates to the introduction of the 2005 Tanzanian Inquiry and Student- Centred Curriculum.

Sound change-leadership is a necessary condition for the realisation of change, particularly in influencing its adoption. Within the descriptive qualitative research paradigm, this study employed a Type IV (embedded and multiple) case-study design to examine and describe science teachers’ lived experiences in dealing with this latest Tanzanian curriculum and the role played by school-based leaders in influencing such …

An Investigation On The Causes Of Student’S Poor Performance Of Bookkeeping Subject In Form Four National Examinations: A Case Of Ubungo Municipal Council, Mshindo Idd

Master of Education

The form four national examination results in bookkeeping subject for years have been going down. Many students are performing poorly in their national examinations. However, students' performance in bookkeeping subjects is very good when students are in form two. This research investigates the causes of student’s poor performance of bookkeeping subject in form four national examinations. The research was a case study design and used purposive sampling in getting research participants. Data for this research were collected through a semi-structured interview and document analysis. The research involved 17 participants who are; Students, Subject teachers, Academic teachers, and Head of schools. …

Parents Perception Of Early Childhood Education: A Case Study Of Mahango A Rural Sub-County In Kasese District-Uganda, Eria Sukutha

Master of Education

Parental Perception on Early Childhood Education means how the parents view and understand the education children acquire from Early Childhood Centers. Early Childhood Education involves engaging children in developmental activities that help them to thrive throughout the aspects of growth and development. The major focus of this study was basically the school education that children gain in the early years of life from early childhood centers also known as pre-schools. When parents positively perceive the early education of their children, they do not only influence the academic acquisition but also the holistic development. The study used a case study design …

A Document Analysis Of The Implementation Of Competency-Based Curriculum: Investigating The Role Of Head Teachers In Kenya., Patience Wabosha Mnengwa

Master of Education

Primary education is basic education level in Kenya and has faced various reforms, UPE, FPE and the Competency-Based Curriculum. The study was carried on document analysis on CBC implementation; to investigate the roles of headteachers. The headteacher being the leader at the school level, the study sought to know the considerations for them, lessons learned from the initial experiences of the reform implementation, and the best practices that ought to be developed to improve implementation at the school level. The study investigated the reform implementation, the curriculum framework, and the guidelines availed for the headteachers in the improvement of schooling …

Exploring Quality Classroom Questioning As Practiced By Teachers In The Teaching And Learning Process: A Case Of A Secondary School In Siaya, Kenya., Samuel Ojode Oluoch

Master of Education

Classroom questioning as one of the practices and tools at a teacher’s disposal in the teaching and learning process can be considered the strongest tool to teach students how to think. The purpose of this study is to explore quality classroom questioning practices manifested in the teaching and learning process in a form four class. The study used the Bloom’s taxonomy and the Information Processing model as theoretical framework for the study. The study was based on interpretivist paradigm that is exploratory in nature taking a qualitative approach. The study involved use of classroom observation, semi-structured interviews involving four teachers …

“Classroom Practices Of Primary School Teachers Of English: Examining The Potential Application Of Post Method Pedagogy In Kenya”, Karanja Paul Kabogo

Master of Education

This study aimed to examine the classroom practices of primary school teachers of English that reflect application of post method pedagogy in teaching of English language. The teacher in the context of Post Method Pedagogy is a researcher and a facilitator in the teaching process, leading to the development of teachers’ own theory of practice and learner autonomy. Specifically the study was guided by the following three objectives; examine the classroom practices of teachers of English in teaching of English which overlap with the construct of post method pedagogy, examine the role of the primary school teacher of English in …

Mathematics Teachers’ Preparedness To Teach In A Virtual Classroom: Focus On Covid-19 Impact On Education, Jemimah Wangui Ng'ang'a

Master of Education

Virtual classroom is a “web-based online environment that delivers course materials to learners and provides collaboration and interaction” (Subramaniam & Kandasamy, 2011, p.1) opportunity as well as support the learners’ independent study. Virtual classroom facilitates virtual learning in a virtual learning environment (VLE). In the recent times virtual learning has become inevitable especially considering the situation where learners are supposed to be home for a longer period than usual. This has been evident with the outbreak of corona virus COVID-19, by the beginning of the year 2020 the disease had spread to other parts of the world thus paralyzing a …

Exploring Secondary School Learners’ Experiences Of Learning English Online Or Remotely During Covid-19 Pandemic., Florence Achieng Deya

Master of Education

The importance of online and remote learning cannot be overemphasized. Nonetheless, Kenya, like other developing countries is still struggling with technology implementation and integration in education. The onset of Covid-19 pandemic was an eye opener as to how the country still needed to do more in integrating technology, especially in basic education. Schools had to be closed and for continuity of learning, learning was moved to online or remote. This research, explored secondary learners’ experiences of learning online or remotely during the Covid-19 pandemic. The study which was qualitative in its approach adopted a rapid ethnographic design. Multiple data collection …

Exploration Of Mathematics Teachers’ Pedagogical Content Knowledge For Teaching Subtraction Strategies. A Case Of Kwania Disrict, Uganda., Owino Ambrose

Master of Education

This study has been an exploration of mathematics teachers’ pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) for teaching subtraction strategies. In the process of the study, a case study was conducted and data was collected using questionnaire and interview. Data was analyzed to obtain themes for the qualitative research data. In the study eight teachers from two government public school filled the questionnaires given to them within a period of one week. These period was given to provide the participant enough time to work on the questionnaire and attained conceptualization of pedagogical content knowledge and subtraction strategies. In addition, the eight teachers also …

Secondary School Students’ Use Of Smartphones: What Can We Learn About Learners’ Devices To Improve Learning?, Iddi Kasanda Kwiligwa

Master of Education

The development of technology in the last two decades has drastically changed people’s lives across the world, particularly in the communication domain. Smart phones that support access to the internet have become popular accounting for 60% of internet connections across the globe (Ng et al, 2017). Smart phones are portable, accessible, relatively cheap, and are easy to repair, and do not require sophisticated skills to operate (Chambo, et al, 2013; Kihwele & Bali 2013). In the education sector, generally, smartphones are used by students to search learning materials through the internet using various applications and sources (Buchanan, 2011; Twum, 2017; …

Roles Of The School Management Committees In Supporting Teaching And Learning In Early Childhood Classes Of Budde Sub-County, Butambala District, Uganda, Tabu Paul

Master of Education

The study sought to explore the roles of the school management committees (SMC) in supporting teaching and learning in early childhood classes of Budde sub-county. The problem was the poor performance of schools, especially, in English and mathematics. And the research objectives were; to establish how the School Management Committee (SMC) exercise their administrative role in supporting teaching and learning in early childhood classes in Budde sub-county schools; to find out how the school management committee (SMC) practice their Supervisory role for the support of teaching and learning in early childhood classes in Budde sub-county early years schools; and to …

Factors Contributing To Female Students Underperformance In Mathematics For Secondary Schools: A Case Study Of Kasulu District., Charles Oman

Master of Education

This study explored the factors that contributed to the underperformance of female students in mathematics in a Secondary School in Kasulu. A qualitative research approach with a case study design was applied. The study sample size comprised of eight form four female students who were randomly sampled using a stratified sampling technique with two strata from science and art combinations. The interview guide and questionnaires were used as data collection tools. The study found out that factors such as Lack of peer support during learning process, lack of books in the school library and poor sanitation of school toilets affected …

Teachers’ Use Of Formative Assessment In Teaching Reading Comprehension In The Transition Class In Moyo Sub-County, Moyo District., Kinyaa Ayia Rufina

Master of Education

Studies revealed that appropriate use of formative assessment when teaching reading comprehension develops learner’s self-efficiency and builds their confidence in learning. The vital goal of formative assessment is to develop learner’s ability and skills that can make them responsible for their own learning. Unfortunately, most teachers have inadequate knowledge on the effective use of formative assessment in teaching reading comprehension. The purpose of this study was to investigate teachers use of formative assessment in teaching reading comprehension in the transition class. The researcher applied a qualitative approach for collection and analysis of raw data and employed an exploratory case study …