Teachers’ Perceptions on the Influence of In-Service Education and Training on Head Teachers’ Human Resource Management Skills in Public Primary Schools in Bomet County, Kenya

Abstract

This study sought to determine Teachers’ perceptions of the influence of In-Service Education and Training (INSET) on Head Teachers’ Human Resource Management Skills. The study was guided by Social Cognitive Theory and Human Capital Theory. The target population of the study was all teachers and all Head Teachers in Public Primary Schools in Bomet County, 5 SubCounty Directors of Education and the County Director of Education. However, the accessible population comprised of 336 Teachers, 45 Head Teachers, 5 Sub-County Directors of Education and the County Director of Education. The sample gives cumulative total of 387 respondents. Descriptive survey research design was adopted. Questionnaires, interview guide and observation checklist were used in data collection to obtain information from respondents regarding Head Teachers’ Human Resource Management Skills. The data collection instruments were validated by experts from the School of Education, Arts and Social Sciences. A pilot study on 30 non-participating schools in the neighbouring Kericho County was carried out to determine reliability. Respondents were chosen by multi-stage sampling incorporating stratification followed by purposive sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data collected. The findings of this study revealed that despite the adoption of INSET, Head Teachers in Bomet County still lacked requisite Human Resource Management Skills. The study recommended that heads of institutions should provide feedback to the INSET trainers on how they have been able to apply their Human Resource Management Skills in their work. In addition to this they should be acquainted with the INSET Policy from the Ministry of Education. Consequently, they should cascade the same idea and make sure that they design their own written school policy on INSET. The Ministry of Education should regularly audit INSET training of head teachers with regular visits to schools to assess its effect on Human Resource management skills acquisition. The findings of this study will be useful to the Ministry of Education in formulating policies for capacity building among heads of institutions. The findings and recommendations made will help in sensitizing education stakeholders on the importance of effective human resource management. The findings of this study will make a significant contribution in creation of harmonious working environments for the success of every school. Such an environment with harmony among personnel is favourable for pupils learning and will ultimately lead to improved academic performance.