Factors hindering teachers' effective implementation of guidance and counselling programmes in public secondary schools in Mwea Division Of Mbeere District

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to investigate factors hindering teachers' effective implementation of guidance and counseling programmes. The objectives of the study were to: a) Assess teachers' attitude towards being assigned guidance and counseling duties. b) Determine whether secondary school teachers have the necessary training to implement guidance and counseling programmes. c) Establish the resources at teachers' disposal to help In implementing guidance and counseling programmes. d) Establish the extent to which teachers are to blame for the poor implementation of guidance and counseling. e) Determine the importance of guidance and counseling services in creating conducive teaching-learning process. f) Establish the amount of time allocated for guidance and counseling programmes in schools. A sample of 30 teachers from Mwea Division participated in this study. The teachers filled a questionnaire, which contained items on factors hindering teachers' effective implementation of guidance and counseling programmes. Three head teachers were interviewed from the sampled schools. Frequencies and percentages were used in presentation of data. Content analysis was also used to analyze data. The results indicated that teachers lacked time and resources, motivation and interest in guidance and counseling. It was also noted by headteachers that teachers to some extent affected the way guidance and counseling was implemented in schools. They did not keep confidential the information obtained from students. It was recommended that teachers should be trained through in-service and refresher courses. It was also recommended that the Ministry of Education provide resources and time for guidance and counseling in schools. The employer ( T.S.C) also should post trained teachers for guidance and counseling and motivate them. Lastly, it was recommended that community counseling centers should be established where churches, parents and all society members can meet with teachers and exchange ideas on matters pertaining to guidance and counseling.