Conflict management and resolution between headmasters and the teaching staff in senior high schools in the Ahafo Ano North district

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to look at Conflict Management and Resolution between Headmasters and teachers in Senior High Schools in the AhafoAno North District of the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Data was collected from a sample of 72 teachers out of the population of 122 from the two Senior High Schools in the district. The administration of a questionnaire was followed by an interview schedule. The analysis of data involved the use of descriptive statistical methods, particularly percentages and frequencies. Data gathered indicated the existence of conflict in the schools; it showed that conflict intensity was minimal. The findings indicated that setting clear goals, collective decision making, negotiation and consensus building, fairness and objectivity, and good communication skills were strategies or mechanisms that were capable of managing and resolving conflicts between headmasters and teachers in Senior High Schools. However, it was observed that, the Headmasters’ use of rational approaches in resolving conflict has helped the schools reduced the levels of conflict intensity in schools. For effective management and resolution of conflicts, it is recommended from the study that the Headmasters should organize in-service training annually to sharpen the communication skills of teachers. Also, headmasters who successfully display concern for both personal and professional needs of their staff create a school environment characterized by lower and more manageable conflict levels.