Digital Commons Network^™

Aspects Of The Informal Economy That Influence Voluntary Contributions To Social Security Fund, Nyagwegwe Wango

Institute for Educational Development, East Africa

The study explored the factors within the informal economy that drive voluntary contributions to social security funds, presenting findings across three key attributes: economic, social, and institutional. Voluntary contributions were evident in all three associations studied. Economic incentives, such as loans and cash assistance during sickness and death, motivated members to contribute willingly. Additionally, the allowance for small contributions during regular meetings further facilitated participation. The study found that these meetings fostered member engagement and provided social benefits. Regularly scheduled meetings, as stipulated in the associations’ constitutions, helped to organize and structure the associations. The frameworks, including rules and regulations, …

Voluntary Contributions To Pension Schemes: A Study Among Actors In The Informal Economy In Tanzania, Nyagwegwe Wango

Institute for Educational Development, East Africa

The research delves into the participation of informal economic actors in voluntary contributions to pension schemes. It sheds light on the difficulties faced by the Social Security Fun d in reaching out to informal actors regarding membership and voluntary contribution s. The study investigates the operations and strategies employed by informal social organizations, such as the bodaboda association, food vending network, and fishing group, to encourage members to contribute voluntarily. Through qualitative methods, inter views with pension scheme participants were conducted to comprehend the initiatives aimed at including excluded individuals, particularly those engaged in the informal economy. Following the NSSF …

The Influence Of Informal Economy On Voluntary Contributions To Informal Social Organisations, Nyagwegwe Wango

Institute for Educational Development, East Africa

This study explores the dynamics of the informal economy and the voluntary contributions made to groups, associations, and memberships within this sector. It provides an overview of the background information on these organizations, their operations, and the issues surrounding protection and risk mitigation. Additionally, the study delves into the practices of voluntary contributions within the informal economy. Qualitative research methods, including interviews and focus group discussions, were employed to gather data from informal economy actors participating in informal social organizations such as the bodaboda association, food vending networks, and beach groups. The findings suggest that informal workers often pool money …

Early Childhood Education Leadership In Tanzania: A Missing Link For Quality Good Start In Basic Education, Fortidas Bakuza

Institute for Educational Development, East Africa

Early Childhood is a foundational period in the life of every child that is very important in the growth and development of each human being. In most literature, policy documents and program interventions, Early Childhood covers the period between conceptions to eight years. It is during this period in the human life cycle that young children acquire knowledge of themselves, people around them and the environments in which they live. Early Childhood as a foundation period for future development is demanding specialized leadership training opportunities, so that those in decision making positions do not only view Early Childhood Education as …

Exploring The Integration Of Neuroeducation Principles In Teaching Mathematics In Selected Secondary Schools In Iringa Municipality, Tanzania., Emmanuel Kahise

Master of Education

This research explored the integration of neuroeducation principles in the mathematics curriculum of secondary educational institutions in Iringa Municipality, Tanzania, driven by the goal of enhancing learning outcomes and refining instructional strategies. Employing a qualitative case study methodology, the study examined teachers' perspectives, the actual implementation of neuroeducation concepts in classrooms, and the challenges encountered during integration. Through observations of form one and form three classes and interviews with three mathematics teachers, inconsistencies between claimed understanding and actual practices were identified. To address issues such as a lack of instructional resources, restricted technology access, and limited professional growth opportunities, specific …

Integrating Digital Literacy Skills Into Chemistry Assessment In Secondary Schools: A Case Study Of Lindi Municipal, Tanzania, Francis Gaspar Sasu

Master of Education

In an era dominated by technology, the demand for digital literacy skills is ever-growing. As technology continues to shape our lives, the need for proficiency in digital literacy extends beyond mere usage, becoming crucial in both learning and assessment contexts. This study addresses the need to bridge the gap between traditional assessment practices and the demand for digital literacy skills in 21st-century education contexts, with a focus on secondary school chemistry assessments in Lindi Municipal, Tanzania.The study enlisted a qualitative approach and case study design in which four secondary schools within Lindi municipal were involved. It utilized diverse data collection …

Exploring The Contribution Of Multimedia Resource Integration On Learner Engagement In Teaching And Learning Of Integrated Science In A Primary School In Arua City -Uganda, Sebbi Sadadi Okumu

Master of Education

The integration of multimedia resources in primary school classrooms has become essential in the twenty-first century, given the huge potential of information and communication technology (ICT). This qualitative case study aimed to explore the contribution of multimedia resource integration on learner engagement in the teaching and learning of integrated science in a primary school in Arua City, Uganda.

The primary research question addressed the contribution of multimedia integration to learner engagement in integrated science instruction. Additionally, subsidiary inquiries explored into the types of multimedia resources employed, learner responses to their utilization, teachers' perceptions, and the relationship between teachers' perceptions and …

Towards Unleashing The Potential Of Ai In Education; Exploring Educators' Perceptions And Practices In Tanzania (The Case Study Of Two Districts In Coastal Region, Tanzania)., Luciana Marwa Hanson

Master of Education

As AI adoption in education progresses globally, understanding educators' viewpoints is crucial for effective integration in specific contexts like Tanzania. This study was an exploration of the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education, focusing on the Tanzanian context. It aimed to understand educators' perceptions and practices regarding AI integration in education. The research objectives include exploring the potential benefits and challenges of AI integration, as well as understanding educators' attitudes and intentions toward AI adoption. Guided by the Technology Acceptance Model, the study utilized a qualitative case study approach involving interviews, FGDS, and observations with 10 students, 10 educators …

Teachers’ Assessment Practices In An Inclusive Refugee Setting: An Exploration Of How It Influences The Learning Of Learners With Disabilities., Julius Odongo Mireri

Master of Education

Assessments play a pivotal role in determining learning outcomes and educational experiences for refugee learners with disabilities (RLWD). However, their circumstances present unique challenges to traditional assessment practices. This study explored how teachers' assessment approaches influence learning for RLWD enrolled in an inclusive refugee school in Kakuma Kenya. The objectives were to examine how assessments are adapted to meet diverse learner needs, investigate how the refugee context shapes assessment practices, determine how assessments influence learning, and identify challenges faced in assessment. A qualitative case study design was employed. Data collection methods included individual interviews with 8 teachers and the head …

Investigating The Use Of Artificial Intelligence In Teaching And Learning Communication Skills- Action Research In A Teachers’ College In Kigoma Region., Gerald Simon Russine

Master of Education

This study investigated the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in teaching and learning communication skills at a teachers' college in Kigoma, Tanzania. An action research methodology was used to gain insights from tutors and student teachers. In the reconnaissance stage, observations and a pre-test revealed lack of AI integration and below-average searching skills. The intervention involved introducing ChatGPT, an AI assistant, to augment instruction. Over eight sessions, tutors and students used ChatGPT for asking questions, finding contents for teaching and learning, and facilitating several classroom discussions. The overall perceptions from the tutors and student teachers were positive, noting increased accessibility, …

Integration Of Artificial Intelligence In Physics Teaching, Learning, And Assessment In A Public Secondary School In Rachuonyo East Sub-County- Kenya: Action Research., Edwin Okumu Ogalo

Master of Education

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in educational settings is becoming increasingly prevalent globally. Despite the Kenyan government's efforts to strengthen performance in STEM subjects like physics, significant strides have yet to be achieved. Consequently, there is a pressing need to explore the utilization of AI, particularly ChatGPT, as a pedagogical tool to elevate physics education in Kenyan secondary schools. This study aimed to explore how ChatGPT can be utilized as a pedagogical tool to improve physics education within Kenyan secondary schools. Employing a qualitative approach with an action research design, the study comprised reconnaissance, intervention, and post-intervention phases conducted …

Examining The Role Of Secondary School Leaders In Promoting Students' Achievement In Igunga District., Ambrose Albogast

Master of Education

Effective school leadership plays a pivotal role in creating an environment conducive to academic success. However, research on context-specific leadership strategies employed by secondary school leaders in Igunga district to promote student achievement is limited. This qualitative case study aimed to address this gap by examining the role of secondary school leaders in promoting student achievement in Igunga district, Tanzania - a rural context facing academic challenges. Data was collected through interviews, focus groups, document analysis, and observations from three schools, involving school leaders, teachers, and students. Key findings pertained to prevalent leadership styles employed, such as transformational, distributed, and …

Digital Technology Integration For Enhancing Physics Teachers’ Pedagogy In A Selected Secondary School, In Terego District, Uganda., Adrabo Atiku Robert

Master of Education

This dissertation aimed at investigating the transformative impact of digital technology integration on the pedagogical practices of physics teachers in a secondary school context within Terego District, Uganda. A mixed-methods research approach, combining participatory action research methods and quantitative techniques was used. The main research question was: How can the integration of digital technology enhance physics teachers' pedagogy in a secondary school within Terego District, Uganda?

Research tools employed in this study included interviews, lesson observations, document analysis, and intervention workshops. Additionally, pre and post-tests were utilized to quantitatively measure the impact of digital technology integration on student learning outcomes, …

Exploring Junior Secondary School Teachers’ Experiences In Teaching Subjects Outside Their Subjects Specialization - A Case Study Of Selected Schools In Chonyi Sub-County, Kilifi- Kenya., Caleb Kaleli Kisangau

Master of Education

This study explored the experiences of junior secondary school teachers teaching subjects beyond their areas of specialization in Kilifi County, Kenya. Using a qualitative case study approach, data was collected from five teachers and three headteachers across three schools through interviews, observation, and document analysis. The findings revealed several challenges faced by teachers, including limited content knowledge, lack of experienced mentors, and insufficient pedagogical training. As a result, teachers struggled to effectively teach unfamiliar subjects, often resorting to superficial teaching. This negatively impacted the quality of education provided to students. Despite the difficulties, teachers devised adaptive strategies such as using …

Exploring The Discretion Of Principals In The Implementation Of Language Policy: A Case Of French In Secondary Schools In Kakamega County, Kenya., Samson Oduor Otieno

Master of Education

Principals, as street-level bureaucrats, play a monumental role in shaping policy outcomes through the interpretation and operationalization of policies in schools. They have substantial discretion to modify policies thereby being ‘policymakers.’ The present study explored the discretion of principals in implementing the language policy regarding French in secondary schools in Kenya. A qualitative case study approach was used to examine the principals’ understanding of the language policy in Kenya, the discretion that principals have in policy implementation, and the effects of these discretionary powers in two purposively selected secondary schools in Fierte County, one with a principal trained in French …

Exploring The Integration Of Neuroeducation Principles In Teaching Mathematics In Selected Secondary Schools In Iringa Municipality, Tanzania., Emmanuel Jonathan Kahise

Master of Education

This research explored the integration of neuroeducation principles in the mathematics curriculum of secondary educational institutions in Iringa Municipality, Tanzania, driven by the goal of enhancing learning outcomes and refining instructional strategies. Employing a qualitative case study methodology, the study examined teachers' perspectives, the actual implementation of neuroeducation concepts in classrooms, and the challenges encountered during integration. Through observations of form one and form three classes and interviews with three mathematics teachers, inconsistencies between claimed understanding and actual practices were identified. To address issues such as a lack of instructional resources, restricted technology access, and limited professional growth opportunities, specific …

Key Performance Indicators In Tanzanian Education: Educational Leaders' Perspectives., Johnberry Daniel Manyonyi

Master of Education

Globally, educational institutions increasingly rely on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to monitor progress, foster accountability, and improve outcomes. Although successful implementation requires understanding prevailing perspectives and addressing implementation challenges, not much study has been conducted on leaders' perspectives on KPIs and practical challenges associated with establishing them, particularly in the setting of developing nations. To fill this gap, this study explored the attitudes and experiences of educational leaders in Moshi Municipality, Tanzania, about KPIs and the factors enabling or hindering their adoption. This study employed a mixed methods approach, incorporating a questionnaire administered to fifty-two educational administrators and a focus …

Unveiling Gender In Competency-Based Formative Assessment: A Focus On Homework Assignments As A Tool Of Assessment For Learning In A Public Junior Secondary School In Taita-Taveta County, Kenya, John Habwe

Master of Education

This qualitative case study explored how gender influences competency-based formative assessment, specifically focusing on the use of homework assignments. The research was conducted at a public junior secondary school in Kenya using interviews, a focus group discussion, document analysis, and observations. 20 students, 4 teachers, and 4 parents obtained through purposive sampling technique participated in data collection. Data that was obtained from the interviews and FGD audiotaped files were transcribed in the field concurrently with data collection, hence continuous and timely analysis allowed the researcher to carefully do a word-for-word transcription of the audiotaped data after which transcripts were critically …

Exploring Factors Influencing Students’ Decision To Pursue Science Specializations: A Study At One Of Public Mixed Secondary Schools In Temeke Municipality-Dar Es Salaam., Samson Masawa

Master of Education

This research investigates the factors influencing students' decisions to pursue science specializations, addressing the pressing issue of declining interest in sciencerelated careers. There is a world-worrying trend in students’ declining interest in sciencerelated occupations, hence the need to understand the factors influencing students' motivations to pursue science. The research employed a quantitative approach with a survey design, utilizing structured questionnaires administered to science teachers, Form Three students choosing science and non-science specializations, and Form Five students committed to study science, and the study was guided by Goal Oriented Theory. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social …

Investigating The Contribution Of Headteachers In Addressing Gender Equality In Primary Schools In Koboko District, (Uganda)., Munduga Mario Aruku

Master of Education

This dissertation investigated the role of headteachers in promoting gender equality within primary schools, focusing on the context of Koboko District, Uganda. The study addressed the background and context of gender inequality significant in education, formulated research questions, and delineated study objectives to explore headteachers' contributions comprehensively.

The study aimed to analyze the structural measures and initiatives implemented by headteachers to address and promote gender equality within primary schools in Koboko District, Uganda, identify and assess the challenges they face in these endeavours, focusing on specific barriers and constraints, and examine the strategies utilized by headteachers to actively promote gender …

Investigating The Roles Storytelling Can Play In Improving The Teaching Of English Language: A Case Study Of A Selected Secondary School In Mityana District, Uganda, Kadondi Sofia

Master of Education

This study explored the roles storytelling can play in improving the teaching of English with specific objectives of exploring students’ response towards the use of storytelling during the teaching and Learning of English language, identifying the challenges faced by the teachers when using storytelling in Teaching English and further exploring the strategies to minimize challenges faced by teachers when using storytelling in teaching English. In finding out these objectives the research encompassed observational studies, focused group discussion, document analysis and interviews with teachers and students to gain insights into how students respond to stories and the challenges teachers face when …

Exploring The Role Music Can Play In Improving The Teaching Of Poetry In One Secondary School In Uganda, Fortunate Letaru

Master of Education

This study explored the role of music in improving the teaching of Poetry. Employing a Qualitative approach through Action Research design, the study utilized interviews, classroom observations, focus group discussions, and document analysis to gather data on students' responses to the music integration, teacher challenges, and strategies for overcoming them. The study found that music increased engagement, interest, and emotional connection, but challenges like lack of gadgets, administrative support, and infrastructure were addressed through strategies like providing technology, involving students, and incorporating diverse genres. These results suggest valuable contributions to the development of innovative pedagogical approaches that seamlessly integrate music …

Student Teachers' Experiences As Mentees During The Teaching Practice In Rwanda, Joseph Njiku

Australian Journal of Teacher Education

Teaching practice is an integral part of teacher education that provides teacher trainees an opportunity to merge theory and practice. This study investigated eight student teachers' mentorship experiences during teaching practice in secondary schools in Rwanda. Respondents were interviewed toward the end of their teaching practice. The cognitive apprenticeship theory guided the study. Qualitative data were collected and analysed deductively based on the themes identified in the literature and suggested by the theory. Findings indicate that all students were paired off with mentors, had the opportunity to observe and be observed by their mentors, and appreciated the mentoring process they …

Improving Students’ Oral Proficiency In French Through Call In One Tanzanian Public Secondary Schools, Godfrey Alexander Massawe

Master of Education

Oral proficiency is a crucial aspect of language learning; however, the complexities of fluency and accuracy make the study of speaking skills challenging. Recently, secondary school students have been struggling to improve speaking competency, therefore, this study aimed to identify substantial enhancements in language skills, particularly focussing on the aspects of speaking through the implementation of CALL in a Form six class in one of the Tanzanian Public secondary Schools. The study was predominantly Participatory Action Research (PAR) involving 2 teachers in the following principal procedures: reconnaissance, planning, action, observation, and reflection. A mixed-methods approach was employed whereby qualitative data …

Exploring Teachers’ Feedback Practices And Its Influence On Students’ Learning In Competency-Based Curriculum: A Case Of A Selected Secondary School In Central Division, Arua City., Anziku Sunday Oyeeson

Master of Education

This study explored teachers’ feedback practices and its influence on student learning in Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in a selected lower secondary school in Central Division, Arua City. The study aimed at exploring how teachers’ feedback impacts on students’ competency development and its related challenges in CBC. The study used a qualitative research approach to engage two school administrators, three lower secondary class teachers and five students through interviews, lesson observations, focus group discussion and document analysis. The data was transcribed using Ms Word, coded using colors and themes derived through thematic analysis. The findings revealed that in addition to written …

Advancing The Integration Of Ict In Teaching And Learning: A Study Of Secondary School Principal’S Engagement In Malindi Sub-County, Kenya, Simon Onyango Omollo

Master of Education

Effective leadership is critical for driving meaningful integration of information and communication technology (ICT) in teaching and learning. This study, anchored on the TPACK theory, examined the efforts of school principals in advancing ICT adoption through strategies employed, barriers encountered, and impacts realized in public secondary schools in Malindi Sub-County, Kenya. A qualitative research approach under case study design was employed targeting two principals and their deputies, eight teachers and sixteen students purposefully selected from two public secondary schools. Data was collected through semi structured interviews, focus group discussions, documentary analysis and classroom observations while data was analyzed thematically. Findings …

Assessing School Self-Evaluation For Enhancing Academic Achievement: A Case Of Selected Secondary Schools In Mara Region, Tanzania, Wambura Mhoni

Master of Education

This study investigates the practices and impact of School Self-Evaluation/Internal School Quality Assurance (SSE/ISQA) on academic achievement in secondary schools within the Mara region of Tanzania. Employing a qualitative approach and case study design, 41 participants were purposefully sampled, including school administrators, teachers, and students. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis, with thematic research applied for data interpretation. Key findings revealed that specific SSE practices, including teacher-student collaboration, follow-up on teaching and learning, and the provision of examinations, positively influence academic achievement. However, stakeholders displayed mixed perceptions towards SSE/ISQA, with concerns about transparency and potentially …

Exploring The Use Of Experiential Learning Strategies To Develop Science Process Skills In Primary Schools In Arua City – West Nile, Uganda., Wilfred Joe Ken Okwaimung

Master of Education

Teachers in Uganda still make use of the traditional teacher-centred pedagogies that do not factor in the learners’ past experiences, interactions, and engagement in the learning process. This reduces the learners’ abilities to acquire some Science Process Skills which are vital for further acquisition of scientific knowledge and skills for future learning and practice of science. Science teaching and learning require practical pedagogies that make the learning meaningful. Using lesson observation, interviews, focus group discussion, and document analysis, this Action Research, sought to find out whether the current pedagogies that teachers used, integrated Experiential Learning Strategies as an intervention to …

Re-Entry Policy Implementation In Uganda: A Case Study Of Two Public Secondary Schools In Vurra County, Arua District., Mane Flavia Eriku

Master of Education

The Education Re-entry Policy aims to provide a second chance for teen mothers to pursue their education after experiencing pregnancy-related interruptions. This study explored Re-entry Policy implementation in two secondary schools in Vurra County, Arua District with the aim of identifying the Re-entry Policy implementation practices, examining the challenges, and investigating the strategies for addressing these encounters in the implementation process. A qualitative approach with case study design was employed where data was collected through interviews with 2 Heads of schools, 2 class teachers, 3 parents, 2 Guidance and counselling teachers, 4 teen mothers who had re-entered school and 4 …

Integrating Technology In Mathematics Teaching And Learning To Enhance Learning Outcomes At A Selected Private Secondary School In Tanzania, Regina Fumbuka

Master of Education

Effective learning outcomes can be achieved if teaching Mathematics is assisted with technology. However, in Tanzania, technology integration into Mathematics teaching remains an indefinable goal for many schools because of the inadequacy of Mathematics teachers' knowledge and competencies in integrating technology within their classrooms apart from other factors. Therefore, this participatory action research study explored how to support a Mathematics teacher to integrate technology in teaching Mathematics to enhance learning outcomes among Form One students. The study comprised three phases: reconnaissance, two cycles for intervention and post-intervention. The philosophical underpinning of this study was constructivism. The school was selected purposively …