Role of Headteachers in supervision of Instruction for Curriculum Implementation: A study of Eldoret West District

Abstract

The demand for supervision and monitoring in education has increased as a result of the tremendous growth and expansion in education and training in recent years. This study was set to examine supervision of instruction for proper implementation of curriculum by head teachers in public secondary schools. Its objectives were to investigate the role of head teachers in supervision of instruction for curriculum implementation, to establish the consistency of headteachers in monitoring important instructional documents, find out the role of headteachers in the provision of important resources and establish the relationship between the headteachers‟ administrative experience and curriculum implementation as reflected in student performance. The study utilized the descriptive survey design and the quantitative methodology was applied in data collection. The contingency theory X and Y formed the basis of this study. It was conducted in public secondary schools of Eldoret West district and the target population composed of head teachers, heads of departments and students. Stratified sampling was used to select 15 schools based on school type, heads of departments were selected proportionately from the 15 schools in the district and 140 students were randomly selected from form 3 and 4 classes. Data was collected using questionnaires and statutory documents. Analysis was done using descriptive and inferential statistics involving frequency tables, percentages, means and Chi-Square test. For reliability and validity, piloting was done in which PMCC formula was used to calculate the correlation index and university supervisors were also consulted. The findings revealed that head teachers perform their supervisory roles mostly through delegation, the basic physical facilities and materials for instruction are available but their appropriateness differ thus affect the implementation of the curriculum. Qualified teachers are inadequate in most schools. The researcher established that there is a significant relationship between experience of head teachers and curriculum implementation. In conclusion supervision of instruction by head teachers is mandatory, they play a major role in facilitating for resources. The researcher recommends that the government should train head teachers on supervision, facilitate for physical and human resources in all public schools to increase access in day schools and also promote teachers on merit.