Exploring the Challenges and Issues in Implementation of B.Ed. (Hons) Elementary 4 Years Programme at Government Elementary Program: A Case Study of GECES in Sindh

Abstract

This study was planned to explore the challenges and issues in implementation of B.Ed. (hons) elementary 4 years programme at government elementary program: a case study of GECES in Sindh. These programs are implemented throughout the province. In 2006 the HEC prepared a standardized format of studies for a four-year bachelor’s in education degree. In the context of the later adopted Education Policy (2009), this proposed program is being revisited and reconsidered as guiding document for the basis of formulating new 4-year B.Ed. (Hons) and 2-year ADE. The objective of the study was to find accessibility of curriculum and learning resources that support learning of prospective teachers. The population of study was comprised of all elementary colleges of Hyderabad division. Hyderabad division comprises of 9 districts, district Hyderabad, Badin, Thatta, Sajawal, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, Matiari, Jamshoro, Dadu. The elementary colleges were only in four districts Dadu, Badin, Thatta and Hyderabad. College principals, students, and teachers were the population of the study. Through random sampling method, 70 prospective teachers were selected. Data was collected through questionnaire, for the students of elementary colleges. Data which had been collected from prospective teachers was on 5-point Likert scale parameters. Data was analyzed by using SPSS data analysis sheet. Percentage, mean score, standard deviation. Findings were drawn on the basis of data analysis and it was recommended that for improvement in new teacher education programs bureaucrats of 20 grades should be hired so that problems may resolved in better way. Teacher’s quality assurance cell should be established. Follow up should be on regular basis .Quality assurance mechanism should be introduced as it is also mentioned in Sindh Education Sector Plan 2014-118 that the new program initiated (e.g. ADE) for having any meaningful impact needs strong Quality Assurance mechanisms Previously those commissions who have worked their reports should revisited and their strengthening reviews may be incorporated Third party or other sectors like STEDA who is responsible for QA should be called for evaluation as it is mentioned in sector plan that internal and external evaluations of ADE and B.Ed. should be done. For strengthening the system biometric system should be introduced. Standard of Entry test should be revised as students come from low academic background. Science lab should be reestablished with latest equipment. New teaching and non-teaching staff should be hired as there was shortage of staff mostly observed. Transport facility should be given so that student’s enrollment ratio may increase. Subject support forum trainings should be introduced so that teachers may take related trainings and enhance their capacity. Trainings related to practicum should be given so that practicum teacher should be aware of all challenges and needs. Resource material and books in the library should be updated so that teacher educators and prospective teachers may be benefited. Fees structure should be re structured as students are not able to pay. Medium of instruction should be in both language English and mother tongue so that students easily understand and actively participate. Coeducation system should be optional as female students come from various back grounds and their family does not allow for coeducation. Trainings should be arranged in vacation breaks so that academic session may not affect from it. There should be flexible or moveable furniture so that seating arrangement may change according to need of classroom. Administration should provide AV aids and other material to teachers and students so that they take benefit from it.