INDISCIPLINE IN SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLS IN GHANA

Abstract

The study investigated causes and influence of indiscipline in secondary schools in Ghana. A multi-site case study from a population of students, teachers, headmasters, headmistresses, assistance heads, senior housemasters and mistresses and parents was adopted. A sample size of 56 participants, comprising 10 school prefects, 10 non prefects, 5 house staff and 15 parents were engaged in a focus group discussion. In addition, 8 headmaster/mistresses, and 8 senior housemasters/ mistresses were interviewed. The data analysis method used was thematic. The study which is in its first phase, was conducted in Southern Ghana. The study revealed three key causes of school indiscipline, namely, attitude of parents over protecting their wards even when school rules were flouted, the interpretation the media ascribed to indiscipline and the removal of corporal punishment from disciplinary actions. The study also revealed that indiscipline lowered the authorities of school leaders and teachers and led to a declined in students’ academic performance. The study therefore recommended an alternative disciplinary regime which should include sanctions to be collectively agreed upon by student unions, civil society organizations, law enforcement officers, educational institutions, parents and religious bodies.