Assessment of Motivational Strategies used by Headteachers in Selected Secondary Schools of Isoka District in Zambia.

Abstract

Introduction: Attention currently focused on factors like improving teacher quality, overhauling curriculum and standards, and developing new assessments, one major factor is being overshadowed: the motivation of the students themselves. Even with the best administrators, faculty, curriculum, and materials in place, if students are not motivated to learn and excel, achievement gains will be difficult, if not impossible. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess motivation strategies used by headteachers in selected secondary schools of Isoka district in Zambia. Methodology: In this study, qualitative and quantitative research designs were used. The instrument which was used in the collection of data was a questionnaire for teachers and another one for Head Teachers. Data for the study was analyzed and interpreted using descriptive statistics and further by thematic analysis. Results: The study reveals that headteachers in Isoka district use strategies such as: assistance and guidance to teachers, trust, financial incentives, praising hard working teachers, awarding hard working teachers and improved working relationship to motivate their teachers. Recommendations: This study recommends that, research be conducted on the following titles: Effectiveness of trust, assistance and guidance as a strategy for motivating teachers in secondary schools. Relationship between praising teachers and awarding hardworking teachers as strategies to improve performance in secondary schools. Challenges encountered in using improved working relationship as a strategy for motivating teachers

Keywords- Assessment; Financial incentives; Headteachers; Motivation; Trust.