EXPLORING THE CONTRIBUTION TO THE PROFESSIONALIZATION OF TEACHING IN NIGERIA (A CASE STUDY OF NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR COLLEGES OF EDUCATION)

EXPLORING THE CONTRIBUTION TO THE PROFESSIONALIZATION OF TEACHING IN NIGERIA (A CASE STUDY OF NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR COLLEGES OF EDUCATION)

Chapter One: Introduction

Background of the Study

The professionalization of teaching involves the recognition of teaching as a highly skilled profession requiring formal training, adherence to ethical standards, and continuous development. In Nigeria, the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) plays a pivotal role in promoting the professionalization of teaching by ensuring that teacher education programs adhere to national and international standards (Adeyemi & Adu, 2019). The NCCE’s policies emphasize the need for teachers to possess the necessary academic qualifications, pedagogical skills, and professional values to meet the demands of modern education.

 

In recent years, efforts to professionalize teaching in Nigeria have intensified, with initiatives aimed at raising the status of teachers, improving their working conditions, and enhancing teacher education programs (Obanya, 2017). The NCCE has introduced several reforms, including mandatory teacher certification, continuous professional development, and adherence to codes of conduct, all of which contribute to the professionalization of teaching (Olawoyin, 2020). Despite these efforts, challenges such as poor funding, lack of institutional support, and societal undervaluation of the teaching profession persist.

 

This study explores the NCCE’s contribution to the professionalization of teaching in Nigeria, examining the policies and initiatives aimed at improving the status and quality of the teaching profession.

 

Statement of the Problem

Although the NCCE has made significant strides in promoting the professionalization of teaching, several challenges remain. Many teachers lack access to professional development opportunities, and there are disparities in the implementation of professional standards across regions and institutions (Adeyemi & Adu, 2019). Additionally, the societal perception of teaching as a less prestigious profession continues to hinder efforts to attract and retain high-quality teachers. This study aims to assess the NCCE’s contribution to the professionalization of teaching and identify the barriers that hinder its success.

 

Objectives of the Study

To examine the contribution of the NCCE to the professionalization of teaching in Nigeria.

To identify the challenges hindering the professionalization of teaching in Nigerian Colleges of Education.

To recommend strategies for enhancing the professionalization of teaching in Nigeria.

 

Research Questions

How has the NCCE contributed to the professionalization of teaching in Nigeria?

What challenges hinder the professionalization of teaching in Nigerian Colleges of Education?

What strategies can enhance the professionalization of teaching in Nigeria?

 

Significance of the Study

This study will provide valuable insights to the NCCE, policymakers, and teacher education institutions. It will help the NCCE understand the impact of its initiatives on the professionalization of teaching and guide future policy reforms. Policymakers will gain a better understanding of the barriers to professionalization, which can inform the development of supportive policies. Teacher education institutions will benefit from recommendations on how to better implement professionalization initiatives, leading to improved teacher quality.

 

Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study focuses on the contribution of the NCCE to the professionalization of teaching in Nigerian Colleges of Education. It will analyze policies, initiatives, and outcomes from 2014 to 2020, identifying successes and challenges in the professionalization process. Limitations include variations in professionalization efforts across regions and the availability of data on teacher professional development.

 

Definitions of Key Terms

Professionalization of Teaching: The process of establishing teaching as a recognized and respected profession through formal qualifications, professional standards, and continuous development.

National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE): The regulatory body responsible for overseeing the professionalization of teaching in Nigerian Colleges of Education.

References

Adeyemi, T., & Adu, E. O. (2019). Professionalization of teaching in Nigeria: Challenges and prospects. Journal of Education and Practice, 13(2), 90-101.

Obanya, P. A. I. (2017). The professionalization of teaching in Africa: A case study of Nigeria. International Journal of Education Development, 15(1), 47-58.

Olawoyin, T. (2020). The role of the National Commission for Colleges of Education in promoting teacher professionalism in Nigeria. Teacher Education Journal, 11(3), 121-136.