Civic Education Teaching Resources and Teacher Preparedness for Secondary School Competency-Based Curriculum in Lusaka, Zambia

Abstract

This study sought to investigate on Civic Education Teaching Resources and Teacher Preparedness for Secondary School Competency-Based Curriculum in Lusaka, Zambia. The study employed the mixed methods approach, particularly the embedded research design in which 120 secondary school learners and 40 teachers were sampled using stratified random sampling. In addition, 10 Heads of Departments, 10 Head teachers, 2 Education Standards Officers and 1 Civic Education Curriculum Development Specialist were purposively sampled and semi-structured interview guides were used to obtain qualitative data from teachers and school leaders while the questionnaire was used to obtain information from learners. The findings revealed that despite teachers of civic education having being in-serviced on CBC, they were not using recommended teaching methods. It was also revealed that teaching resources were inadequate and teachers lacked an in- depth understanding of how to use teaching resources for effective implementation of the CBC. The study therefore recommended that the Ministry of Education should seriously consider retraining teachers with skills required for competency-based learning. Moreover, during the in-service and pre-service training, teachers should be upskilled in learner centered approachers that are most likely to promote learners acquisition of appropriate civic skills, knowledge and attitudes. Additionally, the Ministry of Education should facilitate and provide adequate teaching and learning resources in secondary schools so as to address the 21^st century competencies deficiencies among learners.