Teacher related factors influencing use of programmed instruction time in public secondary schools in Machakos County - Kenya

Abstract

Teachers play a key role in any form of schooling. On the other hand, instruction time is a core component of effective schooling. The purpose of this study was to investigate teacher related factors influencing use of programmed instruction time in secondary schools in Machakos County. The study employed descriptive survey research design. Random sampling technique was used to select a sample of 177 teachers. A questionnaire for teachers was the main research instrument. Quantitative data obtained was analysed using Statistical Analysis Software – STATA 11 while qualitative data was analyzed by use of themes as per the objectives. Content analysis based on themes was employed for open-ended questions whilethe hypothesis was tested at.05 levelof significance. The findings of the study revealed that teacher related factors influencing use of programmed instruction time in secondary schools include teachers’ attitude towards their work, teacher motivation, teacher remuneration, teacher absenteeism, and access to adequate teaching and learning resources. The study recommends that the government should increase funding to the education sector to facilitate recruitment of more teachers, it should improve their remuneration and hence their motivation as well as facilitate access to teaching and learning resources and materials. The study is of benefit to the Ministry of Education and school administrators towards improving use of programmed instruction time in public secondary schools.