TO ASSESS THE TYPES OF ALTERNATIVE DISCIPLINARY METHODS DEPLOYED BY TEACHERS IN ENHANCING STUDENTS CONDUCTS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN MERU-DISTRICT ARUSHA TANZANIA

Abstract

The study is expecting to find out about the deployment of alternative disciplinary methods by teachers in enhancing students’ conducts in secondary schools in Meru District, Tanzania. The study guided by behaviorist stimulus – response theory. 55 heads of schools, 1350 teachers, 20513 students and 20513 parents from Meru District was the target of this study. The sample for this study were 6 heads of schools, 60 teachers, 144 students and 6 parents making a total of 216. The study employed mixed method research design whereby probability and non-probability sampling technique used. The study used questionnaire and interview guide in data collection. Descriptive and inferential statistical data was analyzed with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 software and data presented through tables and direct quotations and analyzed through mean, percentages and frequency. The study found out that teachers used alternative disciplinary strategies to curb indiscipline students; those methods include guidance and counseling, suspension, warnings, parental involvement, decision making collaboration and others.  The study concluded that these alternative disciplinary strategies have not been very effective because still have causes of both major and minor indiscipline cases taking place in the sampled secondary schools. The researcher recommended that the school administration and teachers should familiarize with the ministry’s policies and guidelines on discipline after the ban of corporal punishment so as to adopt appropriate alternative disciplinary strategies.