Communication approaches used in conflict management in schools: a study of national high schools in north rift region of Kenya

Abstract

Most studies done, have blamed unhealthy relationships and conflict in schools on poor communication. Communication is the life blood, the righteous vein that conveys directions with distinction in schools. Kenyan government has communication policies ensuring quality education, but schools are still plagued with conflict. Communication strategies like consultation and negotiation have always been suggested as the panacea for the incessant conflict as teachers inform and engage students on school goals. This study aims at investigating communication approaches used in conflict management in schools. The study answers four questions: What are the main causes of conflict between teachers and students resulting from poor communication in schools? What are the possible barriers to communication encountered by teachers and students in conflict management in schools? What are the communication approaches used by teachers to manage conflict in schools? How can communication be utilized to create a conflict-free teaching and learning environment at school? Empathic listening theory was incorporated in thematic data analysis, which involved: transcription, coding and final report writing. Qualitative approach, case study design and multiple case study method were used with purposive sampling of twelve teachers and twelve students from six national schools in three North Rift Counties of Kenya. Interviews, observation and document review generated data. Findings reveal that teachers are the school spokespersons in conflict management yet they lack training to handle communication during crises. Most teachers do not listen empathically to students‟ issues so as to provide objective judgment in conflict management in schools. Frequent teacher-student interaction and feedback lacks in most schools creating a tension-filled learning environment. In conclusion, teachers should be empathic listeners as students are taught to be assertive speakers for effective school communication. It is recommended that teachers be trained on the best ways to interact with students in managing conflict in schools. Teachers should involve students in decision making by listening to their suggestions as this will make them feel satisfied leading to achievement of the set school goals and objectives. Frequent and free communication between teachers and students should be encouraged through the former listening empathically to understand the concerns raised by the latter so as to create conducive teaching and learning environment.