Stakeholders’ Views on the Preparation and Utilization of School Supplementary Curriculum Materials in Selected Private Primary Schools in Addis Ababa

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the views of stakeholders on school
supplementary curriculum materials’ preparation and utilization in two private primary schools in
Addis Ababa. A concurrent mixed methods research design was used for the study. A total of
174 students and 65 parents were selected using stratified and convenient sampling techniques
respectively while 12 teachers were selected using availability sampling technique. Four school
administrators and four education bureau experts were selected using purposive and availability
sampling techniques respectively. Questionnaire, interview, focus group discussion and
document analysis were used to collect data. The quantitative data were analyzed using
frequencies, percentages, and mean scores while the qualitative data was analyzed using
themes. The findings revealed that the stakeholders had positive views on the supplementary
curriculum materials for they facilitated students’ learning and improved their achievements. The
Education Bureau’s guideline and criteria improved the preparation, but reduced the number of
private schools that were involved in the preparation and utilization practice. The preparation and
utilization of the supplementary curriculum materials in the English language for the first cycle
grades and access through sale were contrary to the Education and Training Policy of the country
and the criteria set by Addis Ababa Education Bureau. Lack of trained writers and clear
guidelines including costs of preparation were found to be the major problems of the schools.
Thus, organizing extensive forums for stakeholders’ discussions, training to the writers, setting
standards and supervising the practice with parents were recommended to improve the practice
in the schools.