ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Challenges and training needs of circuit supervisors in Awutu Breku District of Central Region

This research sought to identify the challenges facing circuit supervisors and their needs in the Awutu Breku District of Central Region.The target population for this study comprised of all the 10 circuits supervisors of Awutu Breku District Education Directorate. Purposive sampling was employed to select the 10 circuit supervisors. The study employed descriptive case study design.Qualitative techniques were employed in order to analyse the obtained data. Results emanating from the study points to the following: poor perception of teachers towards supervision and lack of knowledge and experience were the challenges facing circuit supervisors in the District, Lack of adequate skills to ensure effective and quality supervision of schools were the factors contribute to the challenges facing circuit supervisors in the District. Challenges faced by circuit supervisors included but not limited to; job training and induction needs.It was recommended that Government,Municipal and District Directorate should embark on workshops to educate teachers to help circuit supervisors for effective work. Municipal and District Education Directors should be fairness and embark on-the-job capacity building for circuit supervisors and lastly, Metropolis, Municipal and District Education Directors should embark on-the-job training needs and induction needs of circuit supervisors.

Source: UEW
Challenges associated with electrical power generation as well as transmission and distribution using overhead and underground cables

Distribution aspect of electrical system has been identified as constituting the greatest risk to realizing uninterrupted power supply. The rate of power outages has been very rampant in recent times. In this regard, this study examined the challenges associated with electrical power generation as well as transmission and distribution using overhead and underground cables within the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo). Data for the study was obtained using structured questionnaires and interview guides. In all, 69 respondents participated in the study. This comprised of 65 technical staff and four management staff of NEDCo. Quantitative data analysis was performed using the Statistical Products and Service Solutions (SPSS), version 18. Generally, the study concluded that overhead cables are most effective in the generation, transmission and distribution of electrical power as construction and maintenance of the overhead cables is cheaper than the construction of underground cables. Fault detection and elimination in underground cables consumes a lot of money and time spending as compared to that of overhead cables. The major causes of power outages in NEDCO are external factors such as trees falling on overhead cables and bush fires destroying overhead cables. The study recommends that NEDCo through the Ministry of Energy should provide with appropriate and modern technology for the monitoring of power. Also, the government is encouraged to upgrade the distribution network. There should be rehabilitation of old lines and also injection of new substations which would solve the low voltages and outages in the catchment areas.

Source: UEW
Challenges associated with induction of newly appointed teachers in Kwamekrom Circuit in the Biakoye District of the Oti Region

The study investigated challenges associated with induction of newly appointed teachers in Junior High Schools in Kwamekrom Circuit of the Biakoye District in the Oti Region. The objectives of the study were to determine what goes into induction programmes in Junior High Schools in the district, identify the challenges associated with induction of newly appointed teachers in Junior High Schools of the schools in the district and to determine strategies put in place to address the challenges associated with induction process. The study made use of descriptive survey design with qualitative approach. Purposive sampling was used to select all the 40 respondents for the study. The instrument used for the study was semi structured interview. The researcher distributed the semi-structured interview and questionnaire after permission had been given by the heads of the various junior high schools. The qualitative data collected was analysed, using content analysis. The study found, among others, that induction programmes were limited to the professional aspects of what the newly appointed Junior High School teachers would be required to do. One of the challenges associated with induction of newly appointed teachers in Junior High Schools is that there is no clear policy on induction. It is recommended that there should be a clear policy on induction at the District level to make it mandatory for Circuit Supervisors and Headteachers to organize and supervise induction programmes for newly appointed Junior High School teachers.

Source: UEW
Challenges associated with induction of newly appointed teachers in public basic schools in Suame Circuit in the Kumasi Metropolis in the Ashanti Region

The purpose of the study was to examine the challenges militating against the induction of newly appointed teachers in the Suame Circuit. The specific objectives of the study were to examine the nature of induction programme organized for newly appointed teachers at the Suame Circuit, determine the effects of induction programme on the teaching and learning of newly appointed teachers in the Suame Circuit and to examine the challenges associated with the induction of newly appointed teachers in the Suame Circuit. Descriptive survey design using quantitative approach was adopted for the study. The target population for the study consisted of all teachers and head teachers in the 8 public basic schools in the Suame circuit. Census sampling technique was used to select all the 162 teachers and head teachers in the Suame Circuit to participate in the study. Findings of the study revealed that newly appointed teachers were inducted on the code of conduct for teachers, on preparation of lesson notes, on the condition of service, on conflict resolution, on the integration of the new teachers into the school system and on the responsibilities of the teacher. The study finally revealed that inadequate time to organize induction programme for newly appointed teachers, poor communication between school leadership and district officers concerning induction, inadequate funds for conducting the induction programme, were some of the challenges associated with the induction of newly appointed teachers in the Suame Circuit. The study therefore recommends that Ghana Education Service (GES) through the various Metro and Districts Education Office should provide induction policy blueprint to enable all educational institutions to conduct a standardized induction programme for newly appointed teachers.

Source: UEW
Challenges associated with initial implementation of new curriculum at MA cluster of basic schools in the Oforikrom Municipality

The purpose of the study was to investigate challenges associated with teachers’ implementation of the new curriculum at M/A Cluster of basic schools in the Oforikrom Municipality. The objectives of the study were to establish factors that influence curriculum implementation, find out how teachers are involved in the curriculum development and implementation, determine challenges associated with teachers’ implementation of the curriculum and to determine the strategies to address the challenges associated with teachers’ implementation. The study adopted descriptive survey design, using the quantitative approach. The target population of the study was all teachers and head teachers. The accessible population was 54, consisting of 8 head teachers and assistant head teachers and 46 teachers. The study found, among others, that the factors that influenced curriculum implementation were socio-cultural environment reflecting in the differences in cultural ideologies and the nature of school environment. Also, teachers were not prepared well by the GES prior to curriculum development and also not supported towards effective implementation of the curriculum. Challenges of curriculum implementation were lack of teachers’ preparation and orientation and inadequate curriculum resources. Strategies to address the challenges were provision of adequate preparation and orientation of teachers and provision of adequate school facilities and infrastructure. It was recommended that Oforikrom Municipal Directorate of Education should provide adequate educational facilities such as school buildings, classrooms, including serene school environment for effective curriculum implementation.

Source: UEW
Challenges associated with mentoring of pre-service teachers in selected senior high schools in the Kumasi metropolis

The study was conducted to examine the challenges associated with mentoring of pre service teachers in selected Senior High Schools in the Kumasi Metropolis of the Ashanti Region. The objectives of the study were to determine the processes involved in mentoring teacher trainees in the study area, ascertain the factors that promote effective mentoring of teacher trainees in the study area and to identify the challenges associated with the mentoring process. Descriptive survey design with closed ended questionnaire was used as the research instrument for the study. The targeted population of this study comprised all the mentors and mentees of Kumasi High Schools and Anglican Senior High School. Purposive sampling technique was therefore used to select all the 164 mentors and mentees for the study. The study found among others that the processes involved in mentoring teacher trainees are relationship building and exchanging information. Factors that promote effective mentoring of teacher trainees are listening actively in the mentoring relationship, and encouraging and inspiring mentees. Challenges associated with the mentoring process are selection and training of mentees and mentor not being the expert in the subject area of mentees. Based on the findings, it is recommended that the Ghana Education Service should see to it that only mentors who are experts in the study area of the mentees should be assigned to the mentees.

Source: UEW
Challenges associated with science practical lessons organization in senior high schools in Sekondi –Takoradi

The teaching and learning of science in the Senior High Schools (SHS) has of late not been very effective since the practical aspect of the subject is seemingly neglected by many teachers. The main objective of this study was to investigate the challenges associated with the organization of science practical lessons in some selected Senior High Schools. The sampled population for the study consisted of 165 students and 50 teachers from five selected Senior High Schools. The main instruments for gathering data for the study were questionnaire, document analysis and formal observation of some science lessons. Data collected were analyzed using frequency count and percentages. The research findings showed that both teachers and students from the selected SHS considered practical lessons as one of the effective means of teaching and learning science. However, the time allocated to practical lessons varied from one school to another. It also came out that, most of the schools have science laboratories that are not adequately equipped with equipment and materials. Again, the study also found out that, student’ participation in science practical lessons is through the demonstration instead of the activity-oriented strategy to enhance students’ understanding and experience. To ensure efficiency in the teaching of the practical aspect of science in the studied SHS, the study recommends that government and all stake holders in education must supply laboratories in the studied Senior High Schools with the necessary equipment, materials and chemicals to enable students and teachers to develop the necessary skills, attitudes and interest in science.

Source: UEW
Challenges associated with the implementation of the School Health Education Program (SHEP) In Public Basic Schools in the Ejisu Circuit

he purpose of this study was to find out the challenges that militate against the effective implementation of School Health Education Program (SHEP) in public basic schools in Ejisu Circuit. The objectives of the study were to find out the state of physical environment of schools that practice SHEP, the roles of SHEP coordinators in schools and lastly to find out the challenges that affect SHEP implementation. Descriptive survey design using the quantitative approach was employed for the study. The population of the study was 284. Census sampling technique was used to select a sample size of two hundred and seventy-four (274) respondents for the study. Questionnaire was used to collect data for the study. The data from the study were analyzed using descriptively statistics such as frequencies and percentages. The study revealed that public basic schools in Ejisu circuit are located in spacious and less noisy environment; however the toilet and urinal facilities provided for students are not in the best of shape and conditions. Finally the study revealed that public basic schools in Ejisu circuit are confronted with challenges as far as the implementation of SHEP is concern, the challenges include: inadequate funds to support SHEP; inadequate teaching and learning materials to support; lack of confidence in teaching topics under SHEP among other factors. The study recommends that Government of Ghana through Ghana Education Service should make funds and relevant teaching and learning materials available to support the effective implementation of SHEP.

Source: UEW
Challenges associated with using technology in staff development in the Sekyere Kumawu district education directorate

The study examined teachers’ professional development in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). It specifically focused on teachers’ knowledge level on ICT, professional development programme for teachers, and the challenges associated with teachers’ inability to go for professional development in technology. The study utilised the case study design as well as the quantitative approach to research. The population of the study involved Personnel in District Education Office and teachers in Sekyere Kumawu District. The study used stratified, simple random and purposive sampling techniques to select 175 respondents. Data were solicited from respondents using questionnaires. The researcher personally gathered data from respondents. The Descriptive statistics was employed to analyze the collected data. The level of teachers in Sekyere Kumawu District was generally found to be low. However, most teachers in the district have experienced a number of professional development programmes and showed positive attitude towards professional development programme. The study identified challenges associated with teachers’ inability to go for professional development in technology. Some of the challenges include; lack of funding for additional personnel to cover classes, family responsibilities, expenses for travel, teaching-related duties, professional development activities are not offered at the time when I am available, and headteachers’ attitude. The study suggested that the government through the Ministry of Education must ensure that District Education Offices are provided with funds to enable them train teachers in the district in ICT, and travel expense must be subsidized or fully bore by the Ghana Education Service.

Source: UEW
Challenges besetting the effective teaching and learning of biology at senior high Schools in the Ledzokuku Municipality

The study was designed to investigate the causes of poor performance in Biology at two Senior High Schools in the Ledzokuku Municipal Assembly. The main objective of the study was to investigate the challenges affecting the teaching and learning of Biology and suggest ways for mitigating them. Seven teachers from O‟Reilly Senior High School and Teshie Presbyterian Senior High School were purposively sampled for the study. The study used a case study design. Data was collected through semistructured interviews, document analysis and observation. These instruments were analysed qualitatively using thematic analysis and validated by the researcher‟s supervisor. From the findings of the study, it was revealed that performance of students in Biology was affected by institutional, technical, parent, learner and teacher related factors. The study concluded that the provision of adequate teaching and learning resources, team work, devising appropriate teaching methods, in-service training for teachers are some measures that can be used to improve performance of Biology students. The study suggests that school management addresses the challenges militating against the effective teaching and learning of Biology thus improving students‟ performance in the Ledzokuku Municipality.

Source: UEW
Challenges facing early childhood care and development teachers in the Manya Krobo district

This study sought to investigate the challenges facing early childhood care and development teachers in some selected schools in Lower Manya Krobo District. The descriptive survey design was used for the study. The population of the study comprise all preschool teachers in the Lower Manya Krobo District. A purposive sampling technique was adopted to select 42 teachers for the study. The main research measuring instrument was a questionnaire. Data were analysed using frequency, counts and percentages. The study revealed that, majority of the respondents knows the preschool curriculum. Interpersonal relationship between teachers and parents was shown by the results as unfriendly. Inadequate teaching learning materials, infrastructure and poor supervision by government officials were some of the major challenges addressed the respondents. The study concluded that curriculum planners should collaborate with preschool head teachers, teachers and attendants in the planning of the preschool curriculum that is they should seek their opinions and involve them in the planning process. The study recommended that, parents should also make the effort to interact with the teachers to know how their children are cared for and in effect contribute their quota to make it better and intensifying the supervision of the childcare centres by government officials could solve some of the challenges facing ECD programmes.

Source: UEW
Challenges facing effective teaching and learning in the hospitality and catering management department of Bolgatanga Technical Institute (a case study of second year students)

This study was conducted to identify and examine the challenges affecting effective teaching and learning in the Hospitality and Catering Management (HCM) department of the Bolgatanga Technical Institute (BOTECH). The research design adopted for the study was the descriptive survey design. The population of the study involved second year students, teachers and non-teaching staff of the entire Hospitality and Catering Management department. The sample technique chosen for the study was the purposive random sampling. The sample size was made up of 40 second year students, 15 departmental teachers and 5 administrative staff adding up to the total of 60 participants. The main instruments used for the data collection were questionnaire, interview and observation. Items used to analyze data were tables and figures. The study revealed that, inadequate TLMS, inadequate facilities and lack of properly equipped practical facilities, poor supervision, political interference were some of the many challenges affecting effective teaching and learning in the HCM department of the Bolgatanga Technical Institute. However, some few recommendations were made by the researcher to the HCM department, the school as well as the government to ensure effective teaching in the school especially the HCM department which includes but not limited to only TLMs available to teachers for use during lessons. Teachers should also do their very best to make available TLMs in the school for teaching their lessons to enhance students understanding of lessons that will eventually improve effective teaching and learning. Again, the school administration should be devoid of all political interference.

Source: UEW
Challenges facing female head teachers of public junior high schools in Bolgatanga Municipality of Upper East Region

The purpose of this study was to explore the challenges facing female head teachers of Junior High Schools in the Bolgatanga Municipal of the Upper East Region. The objectives of the study were to identify the socio-cultural challenges that female headteachers face in carrying their roles and responsibilities, identify the organizational related challenges facing the headteachers and to determine the support systems put in place for the female headteacher to improve upon their performance. The study used descriptive survey as the research design. The targeted population was all the 293 female heads and female teachers of public Junior High schools in the Bolgatanga Municipality. Purposive sampling was used to select female heads while simple random sampling was used to select the females teachers for the study. The researcher used questionnaire with closed ended questions to gather data for the study. The study found, among others that the negative attitude of people towards female leadership and the perception of females being inferior to men are socio-cultural challenges of the female headteachers. Inadequate financial resources and problem of balancing reproductive and workplace functions are other challenges facing the female headteacher. Support systems put in place for the female headteachers were the provision of teaching and learning materials and provision of professional training and development. Based on the findings, it is recommended that the Ghana Education Service in collaboration with the Ministry of Education should organize awareness creation through PTA meetings, seminars and forums to sensitize parents and guardians on the importance of female education.

Source: UEW