Browsing by Author "Kabasiita, Jessica"

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    Contribution of the Skills-Based Approach to Teaching Students in Lower Secondary Schools and on Poverty Reduction After COVID-19 Disruptions in Communities in Jinja North Division, Uganda
    (Paradigm Academic Press, 2023) Namasoga, Martha; Kaahwa, Yuda Taddeo; Muweesi, Charles; Kabasiita, Jessica; Kaweesi, Muhamadi; Namagero, Shira Tendo; Kabeera, Pontian; Isabirye, Christopher; Kasirye, Richard; Namukose, Sarah; Kuteesa, Mugenyi Disan; Mutebi, Abubaker; Sserwadda, Lawerence; Muwagga, Anthony Mugagga
    The study sought to examine the contribution of the skills-based approach to teaching students in lower secondary schools after COVID-19 disruptions and poverty reduction. The study was purely qualitative in nature and data were obtained using interview guide and focus discussion. Findings revealed that skills-based education is given to students through class talks, but other living skills such as self-worth, decision-making, and successful communication are not given priority. HIV/AIDS prevention and health education initiatives are implemented to raise awareness, change attitudes, and promote healthy sexual behaviour. Skills-based education is an important tool for reducing poverty in communities by providing students with communication, debate, and tailoring skills, as well as computer skills, gymnastics, sports and games. These gains bring about employment and money to fight poverty. Parents are failing to provide instructional materials, leading to an increase in drinking alcohol and smoking, a lack of interest in reading, and an increase in the student-to-teacher ratio. This leads to late coming, dodging of school, and abolishment of punishment and promotion. The study concluded that skills-based education is an important tool for reducing poverty in communities by providing students with communication, debate, and tailoring skills, as well as computer skills, gymnastics, sports, and games. Also, other life skills such as self-worth, decision-making, and successful communication are not given priority. Based on the conclusion the study recommends that all teachers should be involved in the implementation of a skills-based curriculum for effectiveness, the government should supply schools with materials such as computer sets and sewing machines among others to enhance practical training of students and academics should be balanced with extracurricular activities such as debating and games for the cognitive and mental development of the learners. Keywords: Skills-based approach, poverty reduction, practical training, cognitive and mental development
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    Gender Bias in Educational Material and Teaching Practices in Schools:
    (Advances in Social Sciences and Management, 2024-01) Muweesi, Charles; Mugenyi, Kuteesa Disan; Kaweesi, Muhamadi; Kabasiita, Jessica; Namaganda, Rose Mirembe
    This study investigated gender bias in educational materials and teaching practices in a case study of public secondary schools in the Iganga district and objectively focused on; examining the indicators of gender bias in the preparation of educational materials and content delivery, identifying factors contributing to gender bias in educational programs, and examining the functional attempts made to eliminate gender bias to enhance teaching practices. Qualitative Oral-narrative results from teachers were obtained and reported in story form, while results from headteachers were obtained and reported verbatim. Findings indicated that there were several indicators of gender bias in the public secondary schools in Iganga District. This was reflected in leadership, where female headteachers were scarce, with only two schools having female principals. Besides, the internal administrative responsibilities were biased against females, as heads of disciplinary committees were predominantly male teachers, as were directors of studies and other positions. The causes for these, as per the findings, were: the perception that some jobs were best performed and suited for females; the flexibility aspect, as men were found to be so tough and rigid; and the favouritism aspect. Functional mechanisms for reducing gender biases in public secondary schools included, among other things, posting anti-gender bias messages on classroom and office walls, balancing responsibilities, and suggestion boxes. Conclusively, in almost all public secondary schools in Iganga District, there is no female head of the disciplinary committee an indicator of gender bias in the assignment of disciplinary committee responsibilities. Many female teachers are denied certain responsibilities because they are either married or unable to attend to their responsibilities at certain times of the day. The major recommendation is that every teacher should be required to ensure that gender-sensitive messages are disseminated and posted on walls and in appropriate places. Keywords: Educational Materials, Iganga District, Gender Bias, content delivery, public secondary schools
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    School Policy Commitments to Staff and Students’ Welfare: A Case Study of Public Secondary Schools in Iganga District, Uganda
    (Research and Advances in Education, 2022) Nabirye, Rose; Muweesi, Charles; Kaweesi, Muhamadi; Tomusange, Robert; Cuiying, Wang; Isabirye, Christopher; Mugenyi, Kuteesa D.; Kabasiita, Jessica
    The study was carried out on school policy commitments to staff and students’ welfare in public secondary schools in Iganga District, Uganda with focus on: the indicators of need for school policy commitment to teachers and students’ welfare as well as establishing the effect in a qualitative approach using interviews. The findings indicate that effective school discipline procedures support kids’ decision-making and academic attention. Teenagers that receive sex education are better able to grasp their biological makeup and become more mature. Thus, the sex education policy aids in informing and educating children about puberty and gives them confidence to speak up when boundaries are crossed. Breakfast and lunch are provided to every student in practically every public secondary school. An after-school snack and dinner are also offered to those taking part in extra-curricular activities. Therefore, students are better able to concentrate on studying when they feel comfortable. Students need to be disciplined to make significant academic progress, yet many institutions struggle in this area. Results show that teachers who emphasize timelines in finishing activities end up failing to finish syllabi.
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    Sickness Presenteeism Correlates to Teaching-Learning Activities:
    (Paradigm Academic Press, 2024) Wanyama, Anthony; Muweesi, Charles; Nabateregga, Judith; Kabasiita, Jessica; Mugagga, Muwagga Anthony; Sserwadda, Lawrence; Ssemakula, Noah; Nassozi, Pomlet; Mugenyi, Kuteesa Disan; Tomusange, Robert; Namaganda, Rose Mirembe; Mugabo, Augustine; Zerubabe, Franklee Onyadi
    To evaluate the implications of sickness presenteeism on the teaching-learning services in public secondary schools in Busia district, Eastern Uganda. The study adopted a cross-sectional design and gathered responses both qualitatively and quantitatively using structured interviews and questionnaires from secondary school teachers and Headteachers in government secondary schools in Busia District. The study used a stratified sampling technique with a sample size of 215 respondents. The study reveals that teachers’ on-time work plans, focus on their duties, and understanding of students’ needs and learning styles are crucial for effective teaching and learning. Teachers must prioritize and meet deadlines to maintain classroom cleanliness and discipline. The study recommended that the Ugandan government, through the Ministry of Education and Sports, should provide continuous professional development opportunities for teachers, enabling them to update their skills and knowledge. Additionally, the government should put in place mechanisms to encourage the use of technology in classrooms to foster interactive and engaging learning environments. Implication of the study, the government through the Ministry of Education and Sports should advocate for the introduction of insurance for teachers to further support and incentivize their commitment to their profession. This insurance could provide financial protection for teachers in the event of illness, injury, or any unforeseen circumstances that may prevent them from working. By offering this benefit, schools can demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their teachers and their dedication to ensuring their job security. Keywords: Sickness presenteeism, employee culture, teaching and learning, staff wellness
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    The Integration of ICT for Effective Implementation of the Competence Based Curriculum among Secondary Schools in Kyaka II Refugee Settlement, Uganda
    (East African Nature & Science Organization, 2024-09) Kagambe, Edmond; Kabasiita, Jessica; Kisembo, Maliko; Kasiita, Tawheed; Muweesi, Charles; Kaweesi, Muhamadi; Kaahwa, Tadeo Yuda; Namutebi, Edith; Namubiru, Aisha
    This study examined the role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in the implementation of the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) in secondary schools within Kyaka II Refugee Settlement, Uganda. Despite the potential of ICTs to enhance learning experiences, their usage remains limited. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 102 respondents through surveys, interviews, and classroom observations. The findings reveal that while teachers adhere to CBC guidelines, the integration of ICTs into teaching practices is inconsistent. ICTs were utilized in less than 40% of observed lessons, and despite teachers receiving training from the project, only 25% felt confident in using ICT tools effectively. However, when ICTs were employed, there was a strong moderate positive correlation (r = 0.67) between ICT use and student engagement and motivation. Approximately 76% of students preferred ICT-enhanced lessons over traditional methods. Challenges such as limited ICT resources, including inadequate equipment, limited internet connectivity, negative attitudes, the digital divide, overcrowded classrooms, and insufficient access to up-to-date instructional technology, continue to hinder effective implementation. The study recommends increased investment in ICT infrastructure, comprehensive teacher training, and targeted student orientation to optimize CBC delivery. Addressing these issues is crucial for leveraging ICT’s full potential to improve educational outcomes in refugee settings. Keywords: Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), 21st-Century Skills, Educational Challenges ICT Integration, Refugee Education, Teacher Training.
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    The Mediating Role of Teacher Training and Learner Orientation in ICT Integration for Competence-Based Curriculum Implementation in Kyaka II Refugee Settlement
    (East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-07-23) Kabasiita, Jessica; Kagambe, Edmond; Kasiita, Tawheed; Kisembo, Maliko; Namubiru, Aisha; Namutebi, Edith
    This study explored the impact of teacher training and learner orientation on the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) within the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) in secondary schools in Kyaka II Refugee Settlement. Despite significant efforts to improve education in refugee contexts, effective ICT integration remains a complex challenge. The research examined how teacher training and learner orientation influence ICT usage, teacher preparedness, and student engagement in this distinctive educational environment. Utilizing a descriptive survey design and questionnaires, data was collected from 455 participants, including 89 purposively selected teachers and 366 randomly selected students. Data was analyzed using SPSS to generate descriptive statistics. The findings indicate that comprehensive teacher training positively affects ICT integration, with trained educators demonstrating enhanced confidence and competence in using ICT tools, as evidenced by a moderate positive correlation coefficient (r = 0.54). Oriented learners exhibited increased interest and engagement in ICT-driven learning. The study identified a gap between training outcomes and practical classroom application, suggesting a need for more hands-on and continuous professional development. Challenges such as inadequate ICT infrastructure, poor internet connectivity, and limited administrative support were significant barriers to optimal ICT integration. The study recommends implementing ongoing, hands-on teacher training programs, improving ICT infrastructure, establishing robust support systems within schools, and enhancing student access to ICT resources to address these challenges and support effective ICT integration in refugee education settings
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    Tracing the Employability Competencies among BSE Graduates in MidWestern Uganda
    (East African Journal of Education Studies, 2024) Rwabuhinga, Richard; Ibore, Christine Okurut; Muweesi, Charles; Ochieng, Mary Kagoire; Musinguzi, Faith Mbabazi; Kabasiita, Jessica; Ahimbisibwe, Osborn; Kagambe, Edmond
    This study investigated the influence of competence acquired through the Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) program on the development of employability skills among graduates in Midwestern Uganda. This research begets a core question- what are the relevant competencies for employability skills of graduate teachers in mid-western Uganda? To unveil the socially constructed realities shaping BSEd teachers' perceptions of competence and the development of employability skills, we applied qualitative methodologies particularly case study design with interviews. Hence the study found out that, well-mastered principles of the subject would render a university teacher graduate employable. Communication skill was also an antecedent for greater performance within the teaching trial. Several other skills were found to depict our study employability skills framework and cognizant of the nature of training that empowered the BSEd graduates in various employable skills. Withal, school administrators reported a lack of some of the 21st-century skills from the graduate teachers (for example problem-solving, and critical thinking skills). It’s recommended that universities align BSE programs with the competence-based curriculum to ensure more employable and relevant citizens