Factors influencing headteachers' performance in instructional supervision in public secondary schools in Kisii Municipality, Kenya

Abstract

This study sought to find out the factors influencing head teacher's performance in instructional supervision in public secondary schools in Kisii municipality. The research was conducted in secondary schools located in Kisii municipality, Headteachers participation in instructional supervision, Development programme and Evaluation of teachers' instructional performance. The study employed a descriptive survey design with 20 secondary schools forming the target population. Random sampling was used in selecting the respondents who included 18 head teachers and 260 teachers. Data was collected using questionnaires. Inferential and descriptive, statistical analysis and procedures were used.

Five objectives were formulated to guide the research. The results were reported using frequency tables. The study established that the head teachers effectively undertook instructional supervision except in the evaluation of teachers classroom performance which had a direct bearing of the head teachers academic qualification viz-a- viz the teacher. Teachers revealed that headteachers did not have time. According to the findings of the study, all secondary school head teachers require training in educational administration before being appointed to head secondary schools.

However due to lack of adequate man power, time and resources, in- service programmes should be drawn up, adopted and intensified by the ministry of education and the KESI for headteachers. There is need to increase the level of educational training of those with Bachelors Degrees. The head teachers should work towards a masters' degree because this will facilitate provision of sound professional guidance to teachers and enhance teacher's confidence in the head teacher as an educational leader.

Secondary school head teachers should allow their teachers to participate more in the organization and the administration of the school in the process of delegating responsibilities the head teacher will be relieved off the daily routine work so that they can give more time for range planning. The study concluded that the head teachers should be trained before appointment, in service training should be mandatory for all head teachers of secondary school who are appointed without initial training. This can be done through regular in- service courses.