An Investigation of Provision of Quality Basic Education in Ghana A Case Study of Selected Schools in the Central Region

Abstract

This study investigated teaching and learning in six private and public (rural and urban) basic schools in two districts in the Central Region of Ghana. Six headteachers and 26 teachers whose classes or lessons were observed participated in the study. Simple random sampling technique was used to draw 144 pupils from primary 3, 4, 6 and junior secondary school form one. Four research instruments were used for data gathering. The results showed that the quality of education offered by the private, public (rural and urban ) schools was hampered by many shortcomings such as lack of textbooks and teaching and learning materials; inappropriate teaching methods, and the extensive use of English as the language of instruction. The major differences between private and public schools were the superior language facility of pupils; greater availability and use of textbooks; and more access to extra tuition for pupils in private schools