COMPETENCY-BASED CURRICULUM 

What do teachers appreciate most in the competency-based curriculum?

This research question gave rise to a theme called curriculum appreciation. In the process, the teachers indicated that the Information and Communications Technology infrastructure was not adequate. They had mixed opinions of whether National Examinations Council of Tanzania meets the Competency Based Curriculum ideals or not, and teachers seemed to prefer assessments which reflect the KBC above those reflecting the CBC. Lastly, teachers asserted that they appreciate the process done by the school inspectorate in monitoring and evaluations, but wished that it could be used as a platform to express their challenges. 

What challenges are teachers experiencing in implementing the competency-based curriculum?

These included that the teachers faced challenges during instructional planning relating to huge classes, insufficient teaching aids and receiving students with poor academic backgrounds. They also indicated that there were not enough teachers to teach science subjects. Textbooks were of a low quality and teachers did not have enough textbooks – learners had to share textbooks and in some cases they did not have textbooks at all. Teachers were divided as to whether to abide by the current multiple textbook policy or to re-embrace on the previous single textbook policy. Another finding relating to teaching was that the challenges which fall on instructional planning are more or less the same as those faced in the delivery process, but observation data indicated that teachers were not using participatory and critical thinking approaches even though these aspects are foundational in the Competency Based Curriculum. It gave rise to eight findings namely that teachers needed motivation and felt that this was a high priority for them. The teachers further suggested a participatory approach in curriculum design where they would be involved. Teachers suggested the introduction of a fairer teaching load, especially for science teachers. 

My point of view 

Crucial to effective teaching was the teachers’ need for a proper infrastructure, such as Communications sufficient, well-equipped classes, and aboratories and Information  Technology facilities. As a result  the teachers said emphatically that they needed training through in-service seminars or further education workshops in order to enhance their proficiency in implementing the Competency Based Curriculum.