Perceptions Of Primary School Teachers Towards School-Based In-Service Training For Primary Education (Mwakem): The Case Of Bagamoyo District, Coast Region

ABSTRACT

The main purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of primary school teachers towards the school-based in-service training for primary education. The study deployed descriptive design, while qualitative research approach was used with some elements of quantitative approach so as to help to illustrate qualitative information. Data were collected through interviews and focus group discussion. It involved 10 participants; among them 2 were head teachers and 8 were classroom teachers. This sample was obtained through purposive sampling and stratified random sampling respectively. The study findings revealed that head teachers and classroom teachers were all aware of the programme and, therefore, perceived it positively. Showing how they understand the programme, primary school teachers were able to explain about their roles, the learning process of the programme, the expected outcomes and benefactors of the programme. Moreover, it was revealed from the participants of this study that the programme is relevant and beneficial to them as it facilitated them with knowledge and skills such as preparing schemes of work and lesson plans, preparing and using teaching aids, improvising methods of teaching and identifying children needs. Despite the above benefits, it was revealed from participants‟ responses that the implementation of this programme faces some challenges such as shortage of resources, weak mentoring and time constrain. Thus; this study suggested that, to make the implementation of this programme more effective in the future, mentoring and evaluation process of the programme should be improved, more teaching and learning resources should be budgeted and teachers should be recognized.