Identification of the problems of secondary school managements and the way forward

(A Case Study Of Enugu East Local Government Area In Enugu State)

5 Chapters
|
61 Pages
|
7,627 Words

Identification of challenges faced by secondary school managements encompasses a myriad of issues ranging from inadequate funding and resources to the need for curriculum adaptation in line with evolving educational standards. Insufficient financial backing constrains infrastructure development and staff training, hindering the provision of quality education. Additionally, the emergence of diverse learning needs necessitates a flexible curriculum that caters to varying student capabilities and interests. Moreover, administrative inefficiencies and outdated teaching methodologies further exacerbate these challenges. To surmount these obstacles, secondary school managements must prioritize securing adequate funding, implementing innovative teaching approaches, fostering staff development programs, and embracing curriculum reforms tailored to meet contemporary educational demands. By addressing these concerns comprehensively, secondary school managements can enhance educational outcomes and effectively prepare students for the dynamic demands of the future.

ABSTRACT

The focus of this work is on the identification of the problems of secondary school managements and the way forward in Enugu State (A case study of Enugu East Local Government Area in Enugu State) The researchers present the purpose, statement of problems, research questions and significance of the study accordingly. An attempt was made in chapter two to review materials and literature by other authors and authorities on the topic. Chapter three deals with the methodology of the work adopted, the population of the study in Enugu East Local Government Area the total population was taken which was based on the number of staff/managers in various schools. The research design used was descriptive design which was selected to look into the problems of secondary school managements and the way forward in Enugu State Questionnaire was the major instrument for data collection but this is complemented by the use of oral interview and direct observation. In chapter four the research questions and findings were presented in tables computed percentages. Data analysis and interpretations findings.

TABLE OF CONTENT

Title Page
Approval Page
Dedication
Acknowledgement
Table of Contents
List of Tables
Abstract

CHAPTER ONE:
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Statement of the Problems
Purpose of the Study
Significance of the Study
Scope of the Study
Research Questions

CHAPTER TWO:
LITERATURE REVIEW
Concept of Management
Lack of Communication in Secondary School
Management
Secondary School Administration
Staff Supervision and Inspection
Managerial and Infrastructural needs of Educational institution of Secondary School in Nigeria.
School records and their essence in Secondary Educational Institution.
Summary of Related Literature

CHAPTER THREE:
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research Design
Area of the Study
Population of Study
Sample and Sampling Technique
Instruments for Data Collection
Validation of the Instrument
Method of Data Collection
Method of the Data Analysis
Decision Rule

CHAPTER FOUR:
DATA ANALYSIS, PRESENTATION AND RESULT
Data Analysis, Presentation of Result
Findings of the Analysis

CHAPTER FIVE:
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Discussion of Findings
Summary
Conclusion
Recommendations
REFERENCES
APPENDIX

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Management could be defined as a social process of making use of human and non-human resources to achieve organizational goals (Onifade, 2004). Management involves planning, controlling, organizing, staffing, leading, coordinating and directing the available resources to achieving the desired goal (Adeleke, 2001). The central duty of management in any organization is to coordinate the efforts of people towards the achievement of the stated goals of the said organization.
Management in our education organizations, therefore, has as its basic function the enhancement of teaching and learning. All the activities of school managers, whether working with parent teacher Association (PTA), the professional staff or a contractor of supplies must, ultimately, contribute to this end, thus management has the component of the process of teaching and learning are concerned with facilitating the accomplishment of the objectives of an organization through the systematic management of constraint, and careful utilization of the available limited resources, which include human, materials, equipment, supplies, finance, space and work techniques of technology.
It is important to observe that in every category of human beings, be they instructional staff including teachers and school managers have each an area of activity to them. Also each level of activity must be related to the other or else there will be a malfunction in the organizational process.
The Head of School and subordinates have the administrative responsibilities of directing the available resources towards actualization of the set goals. They plan the classrooms and out of classroom activities for teachers and students. They co-ordinate the school activities in order to ensure that many programmes go on at the same time without conflicting with others.
More precisely, managers who raise money, who set up buildings, who institute accounting procedures, who organize levies for school uniforms and many other things they do without clear reference to these aforementioned activities. Although they may forget that management is not the major primary issues in organization but it is always instrumental to organizational goals.
Management decisions of administration are valueless unless they are geared to the implementation of organizational goals.
Management is the pillar of every organization especially in secondary schools. Secondary school management comprises the school administrators, and other organigrom people who are in charge of managing the school affairs. Specifically they perform the following administrative duties:
(1) Resource and programme planning and policy making.
(2) Provision and maintenance of funds and facilities
(3) Improving of instructional programmes
(4) Students personnel services and maintenance of effective interrelationship with the community and external agencies.

Statement of the Problem
The researchers have observed from available literature that to design and implement the solution to the difficulties encountered by secondary school management has posed a great deal of problem because an identification of the problems of the secondary school management in Enugu East Local Government Area of Enugu State has been difficult.
Therefore, the problem is how could the various factors responsible for the difficulties in the effective management of secondary schools in Enugu East Local Government Area of Enugu State be clearly identified?

Purpose of the Study
The purpose of this study is to identify the problems or challenges experienced in secondary school management in Enugu East Local Government Area and the way forward. Specifically, the study is focused;
(1) To identify the major challenges facing the secondary school management in Enugu East Local Government Area of Enugu Education zone?
(2) To identify the factors that are responsible for these challenges?
(3) To find out the roles of the local government in the provision of infrastructural needs in the management of secondary schools in Enugu East L.G.A?
(4) To find out the effect of staff supervision and inspection contribute to the management of secondary schools in Enugu East Local Government Area of Enugu Education Zone?

Significance of the Study
The call for accountability in our educational system is a call for an approach that focuses on efficiency. In our changing society, with all its ever-increasing demands and expectations on the school system, the need for a study of this nature can hardly be over emphasized. This study will be significant in the following ways.
1. It will help to improve the performance of the secondary school managers in the achievement of the educational goals.
2. Heads of administrators and inspectors will have better insight on how to increase the level of commitment for educational excellence.
3. It will help the professionals to understand the need for staff inspection and supervision in the secondary schools.
4. it will help in cultivating and sustaining an effective communication flow among the principals, teachers, non-tutorial staff, other stakeholders and students for the achievement of educational goals at stipulated in the National Policy.

Scope of the Study
This study is carried out in Enugu East Local Government Area of Enugu Education zone. It is limited to the identification of the problems of secondary school management and the determination of the way forward in Enugu East Local Government of Enugu State.

Research Questions
1. What are the major challenges facing the secondary school management in Enugu East Local Government Area of Enugu Education zone?
2. What factors are responsible for these challenges?
3. What are the roles of the local government in the provision of infrastructural needs in the management of secondary schools in Enugu East L.G.A?
4. What are the effects of staff supervision and inspection on management of secondary schools in Enugu East Local Government Area of Enugu Education Zone?

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Secondary school management can face a range of challenges that impact the quality of education and overall school functioning. Here are some common problems faced by secondary school managements and potential ways forward to address them:

1. Insufficient Funding:

  • Problem: Lack of adequate financial resources can hinder the provision of quality education, infrastructure, and resources.
  • Way Forward: Schools can explore alternative funding sources such as grants, partnerships with local businesses, and community fundraising. Advocating for increased government funding and effective budget management is also crucial.

2. Teacher Shortages and Quality:

  • Problem: Difficulty in recruiting and retaining qualified teachers affects the quality of education provided.
  • Way Forward: Schools should invest in competitive salaries, professional development, and supportive work environments. Collaboration with teacher training institutions can help bridge the gap between demand and supply of skilled educators.

3. Outdated Curriculum:

  • Problem: Curriculum that does not align with current educational standards or lacks practical relevance can hinder student engagement and learning.
  • Way Forward: Regular curriculum reviews and updates, integration of technology, and emphasis on skills relevant to the modern world can enhance the curriculum’s effectiveness.

4. Lack of Infrastructure and Resources:

  • Problem: Inadequate physical infrastructure, classroom materials, and technology can hinder effective teaching and learning.
  • Way Forward: Schools can seek community support, apply for government grants, and explore public-private partnerships to improve infrastructure. Proper resource allocation and management are key.

5. Student Engagement and Motivation:

  • Problem: Disengaged students can lead to poor academic performance and discipline issues.
  • Way Forward: Implement student-centered teaching methods, project-based learning, and extracurricular activities that cater to diverse interests. Fostering a positive and inclusive school culture also helps motivate students.

6. Parental Involvement:

  • Problem: Lack of parental engagement can impact student performance and school-community relationships.
  • Way Forward: Schools can organize regular parent-teacher conferences, workshops, and involve parents in decision-making processes. Open communication channels help build a strong school-parent partnership.

7. Standardized Testing Pressure:

  • Problem: Excessive emphasis on standardized testing can lead to a narrow curriculum and increased stress among students and teachers.
  • Way Forward: Balancing assessment methods, including formative and project-based assessments, provides a more holistic view of student progress. Advocacy for more balanced education policies can also be beneficial.

8. Inclusion and Diversity:

  • Problem: Inadequate support for students with diverse learning needs and backgrounds can lead to unequal opportunities.
  • Way Forward: Implement inclusive education practices, provide professional development for teachers in this area, and create support mechanisms for students with special needs.

9. Technological Integration:

  • Problem: Limited use of technology in teaching can hinder innovative and effective learning experiences.
  • Way Forward: Schools should invest in appropriate technology, provide teacher training, and leverage digital tools to enhance teaching and learning processes.

10. School Safety and Security:

  • Problem: Inadequate safety measures can jeopardize the well-being of students and staff.
  • Way Forward: Implement comprehensive safety protocols, conduct regular drills, and promote a safe and respectful school environment.

Addressing these challenges requires a combination of strategic planning, collaboration among stakeholders, resource allocation, and a commitment to continuous improvement in education quality. Each school’s context may vary, so solutions should be tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of the institution.