Abstract:
The main objective of the study was to assess the nature of supervision of teaching and learning in public basic schools in the Wa West District. The study focuses on types of supervision, role of supervision and challenges of supervision as practised in the district. Using a simple random sampling, 248 respondents comprising 137 teachers, 103 headteachers and 8 circuit supervisors were selected to respond to questionnaire. The design used was descriptive survey. Questionnaires were the main instrument used. The findings of the study indicated that both internal and external supervision are practiced in the district. Majority of teachers (96%) and headteachers (97%) were of the opinion that supervision enhances instruction in the teaching and learning process. The study revealed that supervision also enhances teacher’s career development. Some challenges indicated by the study includes: inadequate means of transport for supervisors, inadequate teaching and learning materials, indiscipline among some teachers and inadequate professional teachers. It is recommended that the state takes critical interest in training teachers; the GES should enforce the code of conduct on indiscipline among teachers and the District Assembly should improve the road network, more especially those leading to schools in the remote areas.
