THE ROLE OF TEACHERS IN HANDLING THE READING DIFFICULTIES OF STUDENTS AT SAVELUGU SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

ABSTRACT

Some learners at high school tend to have reading difficulties and teachers are confronted with the duty of helping them to overcome their reading difficulties. This study investigated the role of teachers in dealing with reading difficulties among students of Savelugu Senior High School. The study is a qualitative research which employed a case study design. The target population was all the English language teachers of the school. Using purposive sampling technique, eight (8) teachers within the school were involved in the study. Semi structured interview guide and focus group discussions were used to collect data for the study. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. The study revealed that the teachers played motivating and facilitating roles to help their students who are struggling with reading to overcome the challenges they face. Amongst others, the study recommended that parental involvement in children’s academic development is of utmost importance, because it contributes to a sense of purpose and relevance. If parents and teachers are aware of learners with reading difficulties they can help them earlier enough to overcome their reading problems.