An investigation into the practices and challenges of instructional supervision in public basic schools in the Offinso Municipality of Ashanti Region

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the practices and challenges of instructional supervision in public basic schools in the West circuit of Bongo district. Three research questions were formulated, on the various supervisory options applied by head teachers in these schools; the challenges faced by head teachers and the possible measures to mitigate the challenges in the study area. Descriptive survey method was employed. purposive sample technique was used to select all the head teachers and simple random sampling was also used to select the teachers. From these sample schools, 11 head teachers and 96 teachers were considered as the respondents for the study. Questionnaire was used as a main tool for data collection. Interview was also used to substantiate the data gathered through questionnaires. Frequency count and percentages were utilised to analyse quantitative data gained through the questionnaires. The qualitative data gathered thorough interview was also analysed by narration. The result of the study indicated that head teachers in the study area employed a variety of supervisory options to supervise their teachers based on the level of maturity of the individual teacher. Work overload of head teachers; lack of regular in-service training for head teachers and interference of Parents Teacher Association members in the work of head teachers were identified in the study as the challenges faced by head teachers. To minimise these challenges, the study recommended reduction of workload of head teachers, regular in-service training for instructional supervisors, and the existence of cordial relationship between head teachers and teachers and sensitisation of Parents Teacher Association members on their roles in the schools.