Assessing the Challenges Faced by Teachers in the Preparation of Schemes of Work and Lesson Plans in Public Primary Schools in Busokelo District, Tanzania
This study investigated the instructional planning challenges faced by teachers in public primary schools within Busokelo District, Tanzania an area characterized by persistent academic underperformance employing a descriptive design and a mixed-methods approach. The research engaged 33 participants, including 20 teachers, 10 head teachers, and 3 Ward Education Officers. Findings revealed significant obstacles in the preparation of schemes of work and lesson plans, including acute shortages of teaching materials, limited planning competence, time constraints, and inconsistent administrative support. Despite universal recognition of the importance of structured instructional planning, only 15% of teachers felt adequately prepared to design these tools. The study contextualizes each challenge using recent empirical literature and concludes with targeted recommendations aimed at strengthening resource provision, professional development, collaborative planning, and instructional leadership.
Keywords: Lesson plan, Scheme of work, Public primary schools, Teachers
