Challenges kindergarten teachers face in the implementation of the new kindergarten curriculum in the Agona East District

Abstract

This study investigated challenges kindergarten face in the implementation of the new kindergarten curriculum in the Agona East District. The study focused on school resources, teacher preparedness, challenges and the way forward for the implementation of the new KG curriculum in the Agona East District. The study adopted convergent mixed method design and was guided by Rogan and Grayson’s theory of curriculum implementation for developing countries. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected. Quantitative data were gathered through a questionnaire from 127 teachers and headteachers at the public Kindergartens in the District. Qualitative data were gathered through interviews from 5 headteachers who were also part of the quantitative phase data collection. The quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics with the help of SPSS version 20, and the qualitative data were analysed thematically. Findings from the research revealed that there was an inadequate resources for the implementation of the curriculum. Also, inservice training was organised for teachers before the implementation of the new KG curriculum, the new KG curriculum is not overloaded and the KG schools have received copies of the new curriculum. However, there were several challenges bedevilling the implementation of the new KG curriculum. Prominent among them are that most of the schools do not have suitable classrooms and textbooks for the new curriculum. There is also inadequate teaching and learning resources for the implementation of the new KG curriculum. The study recommended to communities in the district to liaise with other stake holders to provide KG centres with appropriate classroom blocks. The study also recommend to Ghana Education Service to supply KG centres with text books. Finally, the study recommend to the Ministry of Education to monitor and supervise the implementation of the new KG curriculum.