Teacher cognition and preparedness in implementing the integrated English language curriculum in form III classrooms in Kenya

Abstract

This study investigated the cognition of Form III English language teachers and evaluated their preparedness in implementing the revised English language curriculum. The study investigated teachers’ understanding of the integrated curriculum; described the relationship between teachers’ implementation strategies and curriculum requirements; established the effect of cognition on the process of implementation and determined challenges of implementation. A descriptive survey design was used in Eldoret East Sub-County in Kenya. Data was collected using a questionnaire and in-depth interviews, student focus group interviews, observation in Form III language classrooms, document analysis and journal entries. Data analysis was done by use of frequency and descriptive statistics. Qualitative analysis involved transcriptions of interviews and filed notes which were coded, categorized and patterns and themes identified. The study established that (1) teachers had varied cognition of the integrated curriculum (2) teachers showed integration at varying levels (3) more than 50% of the teachers still believe that English language and literature should be taught separately. (4) Teachers who had a better cognition of integration made more effort in the preparation and actual implementation of the integrated lessons. However, some teachers who did not seem to have any problem with conceptualizing integration still fell short of implementing it with fidelity (5) the practice of concentrating teaching on examination areas is still entrenched in teachers’ beliefs. Factors that were established to affect curriculum implementation efforts include: lack of appropriate Teacher Professional Development (TPD), content overload and complexity, non-suitable learner characteristics, inadequate directions in course books on integration and inappropriate pre-service training. The study recommends involvement of teachers in the development of curriculum innovations, organized Continuous TPD, development of materials that support teachers in their implementation and review of assessment procedures. This study has contributed to the dearth of literature in the area of teacher cognition of English language in Kenya. It has also provided insights to stakeholders in the field of curriculum on implementation issues that are pertinent which may lead to more fitting implementation in the future. This may help in suggesting necessary improvements to curriculum implementation such as material development, programme review at teacher colleges and universities and enhanced professional development training for teachers. The findings thus have a potential to inform and improve practice when stakeholders consider ways to improve the implementation of the curriculum in language classrooms in Kenya.