Time management and syllabus coverage in Tanzanian primary schools: the case of Hanang’ district council

This study on time management and syllabus coverage in Tanzania primary schools was conducted in Hanang’ District Council in Manyara Region. Ten primary schools were involved in the study. The study was guided by three research objectives, namely: To find out the impact of time management on syllabus coverage, factors for time mismanagement and finally techniques used by head teachers to supervise utilization of time allocated for syllabus coverage in primary schools. Data were collected through documentary analysis, observation, interviews, questionnaire and focus group discussions. Sampling techniques that included stratified, simple random and purposive sampling procedures were used to obtain the targeted respondents. Data were analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively. Qualitative data were analyzed descriptively while quantitative data were analyzed in frequencies and percentage form. The study revealed that the problem of time mismanagement was prevalent in primary schools. Most of the time, pupils were forced to engage in self-reliance activities like farming. As a result, many periods in the syllabus were not adequately covered. In addition, many teachers were found engaging in their private matters, neglecting teaching, which was their core job. Head teachers and teachers were less sensitive to time management in their daily performance of school activities. Hence, there was high wastage of school time. Further, despite the available mechanisms used to monitor effective utilization of time in schools, there was time mismanagement in primary schools. In view of the research findings, it was concluded that time mismanagement with regard to syllabus coverage was prevalent in most primary schools. It is recommended that school inspectors have to frequently inspect all schools to supervise time for syllabus coverage. In addition, there is need to establish an active academic committee that may supervise and optimise time management for syllabus coverage. It is recommended that other studies be conducted on the role of head teachers on time management in primary schools, effectiveness of school time table in monitoring time mismanagement and effects of time management in pupils’ academic performance in primary schools.