Factors influencing discipline at Ghana National College, Cape Coast, Ghana

Abstract

This study investigated factors influencing discipline in Ghana Nation College. It captured the concept of discipline, the forms, causes and remedies to disciplinary problems. The study sought to provide a framework for which senior secondary schools could structure out their own disciplinary codes of conduct and enforce them through which a pattern of values such as respect, obedience, honesty, truthfulness, kindness, punctuality, patriotism, determination and hardwork, courage, concern for others will be inculcated in students. The study was a descriptive survey. Simple random sampling was employed in selecting a total of 220 respondents; comprising 200 students and 20 teachers for the study. The sample was drawn from a population of 2,500 students and 84 teachers from Ghana National College, Cape Coast. Two sets of questionnaires were used to solicit opinion of respondents on the topic under investigation. The findings indicate that, respondents differed on the forms, causes and remedies to disciplinary problems in schools, but admitted that discipline is necessary for excellent academic work. On the causes of disciplinary problems, both exogenous and endogenous factors were identified. Some vital recommendations were made based on the research findings. It is imperative that: Good conducts exhibited by students should be acknowledged and rewarded accordingly. Enrollment should be kept at levels that will make monitoring effective. Performance appraisal should be used to audit the profession. Parents must collaborate with the school authorities to ensure a positive ethos for academic work. Structures for early detection and monitoring of students' misconducts should be put in place. Guidance and counseling units in the secondary schools should be strengthened.