Teacher Staffing Adequacy and Implementation of the Competency Based Curriculum in Public Junior Secondary Schools in Mukaa Sub-County, Makueni County, Kenya

Abstract

The study examined the influence of teacher staffing adequacy on the implementation of the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) in public Junior Secondary Schools in Mukaa Sub-County, Makueni County, Kenya. Adequate teacher staffing is essential for effective curriculum delivery because CBC requires teachers to facilitate learner-centered instruction, continuous assessment, practical activities, and individualized support. The study sought to determine whether the availability and adequacy of teachers influenced the extent to which CBC was implemented in public Junior Secondary Schools. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. Data were collected from teachers and head teachers in public Junior Secondary Schools using questionnaires. The reliability of the instruments was established through the test-retest method, with reliability coefficients of r = 0.725 for teachers and r = 0.714 for head teachers, indicating acceptable reliability. Data were analyzed using descriptive and correlational statistics with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29.The findings established a strong positive relationship between teacher staffing adequacy and CBC implementation, with a correlation coefficient of r = 0.740. The finding indicates that schools with adequate teacher staffing were more likely to implement CBC effectively. Sufficient staffing enables teachers to manage their teaching responsibilities, provide learners with appropriate attention, conduct continuous assessment, and facilitate activities aimed at developing learners' competencies. Conversely, inadequate staffing may increase teachers' workloads and limit their ability to provide effective learner support and implement competency-based approaches as intended. The study concluded that teacher staffing adequacy is an important determinant of effective CBC implementation in public Junior Secondary Schools in Mukaa Sub-County. It recommends that the Ministry of Education and other relevant authorities ensure adequate and appropriately specialized teachers are deployed to Junior Secondary Schools based on enrolment and curriculum requirements. Strengthening teacher staffing would enhance effective curriculum delivery and improve the achievement of CBC objectives.