Staff Training and Performance Management
Staff Training and Performance Management
Goal Orientation: MBO focuses on the determination of unit and individual goals in line with
the organizational goals. These goals define responsibilities of different parts of the organization
and help to integrate the organization with its parts and with its environment. MBO seeks to
balance and blend the long term objectives (profit, growth and survival of the firm with the
personal objectives of key executives. It requires that all corporate, departmental and personal
goals will be clearly defined and integrated.
Key Result Areas: The emphasis in MBO is on performance improvement in the areas which
are of critical importance to the organisation as a whole. By identification of key result areas
(KRAs), MBO ensures that due attention is given to the priority areas which have significant
impact on performance and growth of the organisation. Goals of all key personnel are properly
harmonized and they are required to make maximum contribution to the overall objectives. Key
and sub Key areas are identified for each function as shown in the following example: Finance
(Key Area) Sub-Key Areas: (a) Cash flow (b) Dividend Policy (c) Debt-equity Ratio (d) Sources
of Funds The role of each department towards the Key and sub-Key areas also specified.
Systems Approach: MBO is a systems approach of managing an organisation. It attempts to
integrate the individual with the organisation and the organisation with its environment. It seeks
to ensure the accomplishment of both personal and enterprise goals by creating goal congruence.
Optimization of Resources: The ultimate aim of MBO is to secure the optimum utilization of
physical and human resources of the organisation. MBO sets an evaluative mechanism through
which the contribution of each individual can be measured.
Simplicity and Dynamism: MBO is a non-specialist technique and it can be used by all types of
managers. At the same time it is capable of being adopted by both business and social welfare
organizations. MBO applies to every manager, whatever his function and level, and to any
organisation, large or small.
Operational: MBO is an operational process which helps to translate concepts into practice.
MBO is made operational through periodic reviews of performance which are future-oriented
and which involve self-control.
Multiple Accountability: Under MBO, accountability for results is not centralized at particular
points. Rather every member of the organisation is accountable for accomplishing the goals set
for him. Multiple centers of accountability discourage ‘buck-passing’ and ‘credit-grabbing’.
MBO establishes a system of decentralized planning with centralized control.
Comprehensive: MBO is a ‘total approach’. It attaches equal importance to the economic and
human dimensions of an organisation. It combines attention to detailed micro-level, short range
analysis within the firm with emphasis on macro-level, long range integration with the
environment.
The Open Performance Review and Appraisal System (OPRAS) is an open, formal, and
systematic procedure designed to assist both employers and employees in planning, managing,
evaluating and realizing performance improvement in the organization with the aim of achieving
organizational goals.
OPRAS is designed as an open, formal, and systematic procedure involving both employers
school heads/supervisors and teachers. It is comprised by the unique features of openness,
participation, accountability and ownership which allow discussion and agreement in setting
individual and organization goal as well as facilitating the linkage between individual objectives
and the overall organizational objectives in a given period of time. Its application in schools
encompasses:
Goal Setting and Planning: At the start of the academic school year, the head-teacher and each
teacher sit down. Instead of just being told what to do, they talk and agree on specific goals for
that teacher. These goals are connected to what the school as a whole wants to achieve. This
makes sure everyone knows exactly what's expected and fosters clarity on expectations (Maria-
Telesphora & Adam, 2022).
Performance Monitoring and Review: Throughout the year, there are check-ins (midyear and
an end of year review). During these, the head teacher and teacher discuss how well the teacher
is meeting those agreed-upon goals. This includes discussions and feedback sessions (URT,
2010).
Feedback Mechanism: A key part of OPRAS is for the head teacher to tell the teacher what
they're doing well and where they could get better also the teachers tell their supervisors what
challenges was encountered and they find collective measure to solve them. This feedback is
meant to be helpful, pointing out strengths and suggesting ways to improve. As URT (2013)
explains, OPRAS provides an opportunity for the employee to give feedback to the employer on
issues that are encountered during the period of assessment and call for improvement.
Accountability: Because goals are clear and performance is reviewed, OPRAS aims to make
sure teachers are responsible for doing their job and meeting their obligations. By clearly
defining expectations and regularly reviewing performance, OPRAS intends to hold teachers
accountable for their duties and obligations (URT, 2010; Maria-Telesphora & Adam, 2022).
Decision Making (though often limited in practice): How well a teacher performs on OPRAS
should affect things like whether they get promoted, a pay raise, or if there are disciplinary
actions. However, in reality, this link is often weak or non-existent. As Matete (2016) explains
that theoretically, OPRAS results can inform decisions regarding promotions, salary increments,
and disciplinary actions, though their practical linkage has been observed to be weak.
Transparency: The "open" aspect in OPRAS means that the whole process is meant to be clear
and not secretive. Both the head-teacher and the teacher are involved in the discussion and
review, which should help make it fairer and reduce favoritism. The emphasize is on
transparency, aiming to reduce bias by involving both supervisors and teachers in the appraisal
process.
Lack of Knowledge and Understanding: A lot of teachers and even some head-
teachers don't fully get what OPRAS is for or how to use it properly. They might fill out forms
incorrectly or not grasp its benefits, seeing it as just paperwork. This can lead to improper
filling of forms, a lack of clarity on parameters, and a misunderstanding of its
benefits.
Staff training refers to the systematic process of providing employees with specific knowledge,
skills, and abilities (KSAs) required to perform their current job roles more effectively. It is
typically short-term, focused on immediate performance improvement, and often addresses a
specific skill gap. Example, a newly recruited primary school teacher might undergo training on
how to use the new Competency-Based Curriculum framework for Standard I, focusing
specifically on new teaching methodologies for early literacy and numeracy.
Staff training and development methods can be broadly categorized into On-the-Job and Off-
the-Job methods.
On-the-Job Methods:
Coaching: An experienced individual (coach) guides and advises a less experienced one
in their actual work setting.
Mentoring: A senior, experienced employee (mentor) provides long-term guidance,
support, and advice to a less experienced employee (mentee) on career development and
personal growth.
Job Rotation: Moving employees through a series of jobs to provide them with a broader
understanding of the organization and diverse skills.
Apprenticeship: A trainee works directly with a senior manager or expert to learn their
job, eventually taking over their responsibilities.
Action Learning: Employees work on real-world problems and learn from the
experience, often in a group setting.
Internships: Structured practical training and theoretical learning, often combining
classroom instruction with workplace experience.
Off-the-Job Methods:
**On-the-Job Methods:**
* **Coaching:**
* **Advantages:** Highly personalized and relevant to the specific job; immediate feedback;
cost-effective (no external venue); learning directly applicable to work.
* **Mentoring:**
* **Job Rotation:**
* **Understudy/Apprenticeship:**
* **Action Learning:**
* **Advantages:** Solves real organizational problems; encourages critical thinking and
collaboration; immediate application of learning; develops problem-solving skills.
* **Learnerships/Internships:**
* **Advantages:** Combines theory and practice; develops practical skills; provides real-
world experience; often a pipeline for recruitment.
**Off-the-Job Methods:**
* **Lectures/Seminars:**
* **Workshops/Conferences:**
* **Role-Playing:**
* **Case Studies:**
* **Simulations:**
* **E-learning/Online Courses:**
**On-the-Job Methods:**
* **Coaching:**
* **Mentoring:**
* **Job Rotation:**
* **Understudy/Apprenticeship:**
* **Disadvantages:** Can be slow and costly; risk of knowledge not being fully transferred;
high dependency on the senior person; "bottleneck" if the senior person leaves unexpectedly.
* **Action Learning:**
* **Learnerships/Internships:**
* **Lectures/Seminars:**
* **Workshops/Conferences:**
* **Disadvantages:** Can be costly (travel, venue, fees); time away from work; quality can
vary depending on facilitator; large groups may limit individual attention.
* **Role-Playing:**
* **Disadvantages:** Can feel artificial or awkward; participants may not take it seriously;
outcomes depend on participant willingness; may not fully translate to real-world situations.
* **Case Studies:**
* **Simulations:**
* **Disadvantages:** Expensive to develop and maintain; may not fully replicate real-world
complexity; can become outdated quickly.
* **E-learning/Online Courses:**
* **Disadvantages:** Very costly; significant time away from work; content may not be
perfectly tailored to organizational needs; risk of employees leaving after gaining qualifications.
* **Outdoor/Experiential Learning:**
Ensures Relevance and Effectiveness: TNA identifies specific skill gaps and performance
deficiencies, ensuring that training programs are designed to address actual needs. This prevents
generic, "one-size-fits-all" training that might be irrelevant or ineffective. Example If a TNA
reveals that teachers struggle with inclusive education for students with disabilities, specific
training on differentiated instruction and adaptive teaching methods would be prioritized, rather
than general pedagogical training.
Optimizes Resource Utilization: Training can be expensive. TNA helps allocate resources
(time, money, personnel) efficiently by focusing investment on areas where training will yield
the greatest return on investment. It avoids wasted resources on unnecessary training.
Increases Employee Motivation and Buy-in: When employees see that training is directly
relevant to their job challenges and career growth, they are more motivated to participate and
apply what they learn.
Aligns Training with Organizational Goals: TNA links individual and departmental
performance gaps to broader organizational objectives. This ensures that training initiatives
contribute directly to strategic goals, e.g., improving national exam pass rates, enhancing school
safety.
Provides a Baseline for Evaluation: The assessment establishes current performance levels,
which serve as a baseline against which the effectiveness of the training can be measured after its
completion.
Identifies Non-Training Solutions: Sometimes, performance problems are not due to lack of
skill but to other factors (e.g., poor equipment, lack of motivation, unclear instructions). TNA
can help identify these root causes, suggesting non-training interventions where appropriate.
Several critical factors influence the design, development, and delivery of an effective training
program:
1. Training Needs Assessment (TNA) Results: The fundamental basis, identifying what needs
to be taught and who needs it.
Example Training for rural teachers might need to consider limited digital literacy and focus
more on hands-on activities.
4. Available Resources:**
Suitability for objectives and audience (e.g., hands-on for skills, lectures for
knowledge).
Mix of methods for engagement.
8. Evaluation Strategy:
How will learning be measured (Kirkpatrick's levels: Reaction, Learning, Behavior,
Results)?
How will feedback be collected?
9. Logistics:
What do management, employees, and other stakeholder expect from the training?
Purpose Close current job skill gaps; Enhance future potential; prepare for future
improve immediate performance. roles/responsibilities; career growth.
Focus Specific, current job-related skills Broader competencies, attitudes, and general
and knowledge. knowledge.
Objective To make employees more To prepare employees for future roles and
effective in their current role. overall career advancement.
Scope Narrow; specific tasks or Broad; covers multiple skills and strategic
functions. thinking.
Example
A training program for teachers might focus on effectively utilizing new digital learning tools
introduced by the Ministry of Education.
A development program for the same teachers might involve them pursuing a master's degree in
special education, enabling them to take on leadership roles in inclusive education initiatives in
the future.
Key characteristics:
The Critical Incident Method of performance appraisal is a technique where the supervisor keeps
a detailed record of specific, observable behaviors (both positive and negative) of an employee
that are particularly effective or ineffective in accomplishing job goals. These are called "critical
incidents."
Process:
It focuses on actual job behaviors rather than personality traits or general impressions.
Example
Positive Incident: A primary school teacher successfully defused a potentially volatile conflict
between two students during break time by calmly mediating and finding a resolution, preventing
a physical altercation. The headteacher records this as a critical incident demonstrating excellent
conflict resolution skills.
Negative Incident: The same teacher repeatedly fails to submit lesson plans on time, causing
disruption to curriculum monitoring by the headteacher. This consistent failure to meet a key
administrative requirement is recorded as a negative critical incident.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
The Graphic Rating Scale Method is one of the oldest and most widely used performance
appraisal methods. It involves rating employees on a predefined set of performance dimensions
or characteristics using a scale.
Process:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Prone to rating errors (e.g., leniency, strictness, central tendency, halo effect);
Definitions of dimensions and scale points can be vague,
Leading to subjective interpretations;
May not provide specific feedback for development.
The Straight Ranking Method is a simple comparative performance appraisal technique where a
supervisor ranks all employees within a group from best to worst (or worst to best) based on their
overall performance or a specific trait.
Process:
Example:
Disadvantages:
The Paired Comparison Method is another comparative performance appraisal technique where
each employee in a group is compared individually with every other employee in the same group
on a single criterion (e.g., overall performance or a specific trait).
Process:
* Comparisons:
* A vs B (A is better)
* A vs C (A is better)
* A vs D (D is better)
* B vs C (C is better)
* B vs D (D is better)
* C vs D (C is better)
* Tally:
* A: 2 times better
* B: 0 times better
* C: 2 times better
* D: 2 times better
* *Correction/Refinement needed if ties like this occur, often by adding specific criteria or
allowing for "equal". Assuming for simplicity, the one chosen as better adds a point.* Let's re-
run with clearer outcomes:
* A vs B (A)
* A vs C (C)
* A vs D (D)
* B vs C (C)
* B vs D (D)
* C vs D (C)
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Process (Cyclical):
Goal Setting: Managers and employees jointly define individual objectives that align
with broader organizational goals. Objectives are typically SMART (Specific,
Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).
Action Planning: Employees develop plans for how they will achieve their objectives.
Monitoring and Feedback: Regular check-ins and feedback sessions occur to track
progress, provide support, and make necessary adjustments.
Performance Review: At the end of the period, performance is assessed based on the
extent to which objectives were achieved.
Rewarding/Recognizing Performance: Based on objective achievement.
Renewing Objectives: The cycle restarts with new objectives for the next period.
Example:
A Standard VII teacher and the headteacher agree on the following MBOs for the year:
Achieve an average pass rate of 75% in the National Primary School Leaving
Examination (PSLE) for English by October 2025.
Reduce student absenteeism in my class by 10% by end of academic year through
improved engagement strategies and parent communication.
Throughout the year, they would regularly discuss progress, challenges, and support needed.
15. Identify features of Management by Objective
Joint Goal Setting: Objectives are not imposed but mutually agreed upon by manager
and employee.
Mutually Agreed Objectives: Both parties are committed to the goals.
Measurable and Quantifiable Goals:* Objectives are specific and can be objectively
measured to track progress and achievement.
Time-Bound Objectives: Each objective has a defined deadline for completion.
Cascading of Objectives: Individual objectives are linked to departmental objectives,
which are linked to organizational objectives, creating alignment.
Regular Monitoring and Feedback: Ongoing communication and performance reviews,
not just annual appraisals.
Employee Involvement and Self-Control: Employees are actively involved in setting
their goals and have a degree of autonomy in how they achieve them.
Results-Oriented: Emphasis is on the accomplishment of concrete results rather than just
activities or traits.
Performance Evaluation Based on Results: Appraisal focuses on the achievement of
the set objectives.
Developmental Focus: MBO often leads to identifying training and development needs
based on performance against objectives.
Clear Responsibilities: Clearly defines what each employee is expected to achieve.
OPRAS (Open Performance Review and Appraisal System), is the performance management
system officially adopted by the Government of Tanzania for its public servants, including those
in the education sector. OPRAS is essentially a localized and adapted version of the Management
by Objectives (MBO) framework.
Purpose: To improve individual and organizational performance in the public service by linking
individual work plans and targets to departmental and national strategic goals, promoting
accountability, and fostering a performance culture.
Key Principles:
Components/Process:
1. Work Plan and Target Setting (Planning Phase): At the beginning of the appraisal cycle
(usually fiscal year), the employee and supervisor agree on key Result Areas (KRAs) and
specific, measurable targets/objectives for the individual, aligning with the organizational (e.g.,
school/district office) strategic plan.
3. Annual Performance Review (Appraisal Phase): At the end of the appraisal cycle, a
formal meeting where the employee's performance against their agreed targets is evaluated. A
performance score is usually assigned.
4. Feedback and Development Planning: Based on the appraisal, feedback is given, and a
Personal Development Plan (PDP) identifying training and development needs is formulated.
Official Document: OPRAS uses specific forms to document the planning and appraisal
process.
Example A secondary school teacher in would fill out an OPRAS form at the start of the year,
agreeing on targets with their Head of Department (HOD) or Headteacher, such as "Prepare and
deliver 100% of Form IV Chemistry lessons according to the scheme of work by December
2025." They would review progress mid-year and then formally appraise at the end.
OPRAS is applied in Tanzanian schools as the primary performance management tool for all
public service employees, including teachers, headteachers, and non-teaching staff.
Strategic Alignment: OPRAS helps cascade national and district-level education goals down to
individual teachers and school staff. For instance, if the Ministry of Education's strategic plan
targets improving national exam pass rates, the Regional Education Officer would set targets for
District Education Officers, who would then set targets for Headteachers, who in turn set targets
for their teachers. Benefit: Ensures everyone's efforts are aligned towards common objectives.
Goal Setting and Work Planning: At the beginning of the academic year, each teacher,
headteacher, or school staff member (e.g., school secretary, lab technician) sits with their
immediate supervisor (e.g., Head of Department, Headteacher, School Board Chairman) to agree
on specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives and key
performance indicators (KPIs). Example, By the end of the academic year, 70% of my Standard
7 students will achieve a 'C' grade or higher in the Kiswahili PSLE. Example (Headteacher), By
June 2025, reduce the student dropout rate by 5% through improved counseling and parental
engagement programs.
Performance Appraisal and Scoring: At the end of the year, a formal appraisal meeting is held.
The employee's performance is objectively assessed against the agreed targets. A numerical
score is often assigned based on the level of achievement.
Identification of Training and Development Needs: The OPRAS review highlights areas
where an employee needs further training or development to improve their performance or
prepare for future roles. This leads to the formulation of a Personal Development Plan (PDP).
Example, If a teacher consistently falls short on objectives related to using new technology,
OPRAS would identify this as a training need.
In essence, OPRAS provides a structured and systematic way for schools in Tanzania to manage
their human resources, ensuring that individual performance contributes to the broader
educational goals.
Despite its noble intentions, the implementation of OPRAS in Tanzanian schools faces several
significant challenges:
Lack of Understanding and Capacity: Many supervisors (Headteachers, HODs) and even
employees lack a deep understanding of OPRAS principles, especially how to set SMART
objectives, provide constructive feedback, or conduct developmental appraisals. Training on
OPRAS itself has been insufficient or of poor quality. A headteacher in a school, with limited
prior training in performance management, might struggle to set meaningful, measurable targets
for their teachers, leading to generic or irrelevant objectives.
Bureaucracy and Paperwork Burden: OPRAS often involves significant paperwork, with
multiple forms to fill, sign, and submit. This can be time-consuming and cumbersome for already
overworked teachers and headteachers. Teachers spend considerable time filling out OPRAS
forms, diverting time from teaching and lesson preparation. This can lead to a perception that
OPRAS is merely a bureaucratic exercise rather than a developmental tool.
Subjectivity and Rating Errors: Despite aiming for objectivity, appraisal still relies on human
judgment. Supervisors may exhibit leniency, strictness, central tendency (rating everyone
average), or halo/horn effects, leading to unfair or inaccurate ratings. A headteacher might give
higher ratings to favorite teachers or those who are generally compliant, even if their actual
teaching performance isn't outstanding, undermining the system's credibility.
Lack of Meaningful Feedback and Coaching: OPRAS is meant to be an ongoing process with
continuous feedback. However, in practice, it often devolves into a once-a-year form-filling
exercise with little genuine dialogue or coaching. Supervisors may lack the skills or time for
effective feedback. Teachers might receive their OPRAS forms at the end of the year with a
score, but without specific, actionable feedback on how to improve, making the process feel
unhelpful.
Resource Constraints: Effective OPRAS requires resources for training, monitoring, and
follow-up. Schools, particularly those in underserved areas, often lack these resources.
Insufficient budget for OPRAS-specific training or for providing incentives to high performers
undermines the system's effectiveness.
Resistance and Lack of Buy-in: Employees may resist OPRAS if they perceive it as a punitive
tool, a source of unfair judgment, or merely a means to justify existing biases, rather than a
developmental opportunity. If OPRAS results are not genuinely linked to career progression or
tangible rewards, teachers may lose faith in the system and engage in minimal compliance.
Focus on Quantity over Quality: The emphasis on measurable targets can sometimes lead to a
focus on easily quantifiable outputs (e.g., completing a certain number of lessons) rather than
qualitative outcomes (e.g., student understanding, critical thinking). A teacher might prioritize
covering the syllabus quickly to meet an OPRAS target, rather than ensuring deep student
comprehension, especially if learning outcomes are not adequately measured in OPRAS.
Fear of Negative Consequences: If OPRAS is primarily used for disciplinary action or non-
promotion rather than development, employees may be reluctant to set ambitious goals or admit
weaknesses.
Poor Link to Rewards and Sanctions: If high performance is not adequately rewarded
(promotions, allowances) and poor performance is not consistently addressed, the motivational
aspect of OPRAS is lost.
The 360-degree performance management method (or Multi-Rater Feedback) is a system where
an employee receives confidential and anonymous feedback from multiple sources, including
their supervisor(s), peers, subordinates (if applicable), and sometimes even external customers or
clients. The employee also completes a self-assessment.
Key Features:
4. Developmental Focus: Primarily used for employee development, identifying strengths and
areas for improvement, rather than solely for administrative decisions (like salary or promotion).
It highlights perception gaps.
5. Feedback Report: A comprehensive report is generated, summarizing feedback from all
sources and comparing it to the self-assessment.
6. Action Planning: Based on the feedback report, the employee works with their supervisor or
a coach to develop a personal development plan.
Example in a School (for a Head of Department): The HOD would receive feedback from the
Headteacher (supervisor), other HODs or senior teachers (peers), and teachers within their
department (subordinates). They would also self-assess. The feedback might cover their
leadership of the department, support for teachers, communication skills, and ability to meet
departmental targets.
The 360-degree performance management method, while more common in corporate settings,
can be applied in schools, particularly for leadership and senior staff development.
For Experienced Teachers (Mentors, Senior Teachers): Helps them refine their mentorship
skills, collaboration, and influence within the school. Experienced teachers who mentor junior
colleagues or take on leadership roles (e.g., subject coordinators) could benefit.
Supervisor: Headteacher/HOD.
Peers: Other senior teachers.
Junior Teachers: They mentor or support.
Self-Assessment: Their own view.
Identifying Development Needs: The aggregated feedback helps identify specific development
areas. If feedback consistently highlights poor delegation skills for a Deputy Headteacher, this
points to a clear training need. Allows for targeted professional development plans, focusing on
competencies crucial for effective school operations.
Promoting Self-Awareness and Growth: The comparison between self-assessment and others'
perceptions fosters self-awareness, which is a critical component of personal and professional
growth. Encourages a more reflective practice among educators and leaders.
Culture of Hierarchy: The hierarchical structure in many schools might make it difficult for
subordinates to give honest feedback to superiors anonymously.
The Behaviorally Anchored Rating Scale (BARS) method is a performance appraisal technique
that combines elements of critical incident and graphic rating scales. It rates employees on
specific job dimensions using scales that are "anchored" by actual, observable examples of
behavior representing different levels of performance (excellent, good, average, poor).
Job Analysis and Critical Incidents: It begins with a thorough job analysis to identify key job
dimensions (e.g., "Classroom Management," "Lesson Planning," "Parent Communication" for a
teacher). Then, critical incidents (specific effective and ineffective behaviors) related to each
dimension are collected from people familiar with the job (e.g., teachers, headteachers, students).
Ensures that the rating scale is highly relevant to the actual behaviors required for the job.
Developing Behavioral Anchors: These critical incidents are then categorized and used to
create "anchors" for each level of performance on the scale. For instance, for "Classroom
Management," a "5 - Excellent" might be anchored by "Consistently maintains an orderly and
respectful classroom environment with minimal disruptions, even during complex activities." A
"1 - Poor" might be anchored by "Frequently loses control of the class, resulting in significant
learning disruption and safety concerns." Provides concrete, observable examples that reduce
ambiguity and subjectivity in rating.
Rating Performance: Supervisors use the BARS to rate an employee by finding the behavioral
anchor that best describes the employee's typical performance for each job dimension. Improves
the consistency and reliability of ratings across different supervisors.
Providing Specific Feedback: The behavioral anchors provide specific examples that can be
used during performance discussions to give precise feedback on what the employee is doing
well and where they need to improve. Feedback is more actionable and constructive, as it refers
to observable behaviors rather than vague traits.
Advantages of BARS:
Disadvantages of BARS:
Designing BARS tools is a multi-step process. Here’s a simplified design for a primary school
teacher, for one key job dimension: "Classroom Management and Discipline."
Steps:
Identify Key Job Dimensions: Through job analysis or discussion with experts (e.g.,
headteachers, experienced teachers), select critical areas of performance. Example: Classroom
Management and Discipline, Lesson Planning and Delivery, Student Assessment,
Communication with Parents, Professional Conduct.
Collect Critical Incidents: Ask a group of subject matter experts (e.g., Headteachers, Quality
Assurance Officers, senior teachers) to provide specific examples of effective and ineffective
behaviors for each dimension.
Sort and Categorize Incidents: Group similar incidents and remove redundant ones.
Rate Incidents: Have another group of experts rate the effectiveness of each incident on a scale
(e.g., 1-7).
Develop Behavioral Anchors: Select incidents that represent distinct levels of performance and
use them as anchors for the scale.
Definition: The ability to create and maintain an orderly, respectful, and conducive learning
environment through effective strategies for student behavior, engagement, and safety.
How to Use:
During an appraisal, the Headteacher (supervisor) would observe the teacher's classroom
management over time. When it's time for the review, they would select the behavioral
description (1-5) that best reflects the teacher's typical performance for this dimension. The
chosen anchor then becomes the basis for discussion and feedback with the teacher, providing
concrete examples of what the teacher needs to improve or what they are doing well.
Early Problem Detection: Allows managers to identify and address problems or potential issues
before they escalate into major crises. Observing a pattern of student lateness to a particular class
might lead the headteacher to investigate the root cause, such as a difficult teacher-student
relationship or an issue with the bell system.
Increased Employee Motivation and Morale: Employees feel valued and recognized when
management takes an interest in their work and is visibly present. This can boost morale and
productivity. A teacher feeling overwhelmed might be encouraged simply by the headteacher
stopping by their classroom for a brief chat and offering a word of support.
Opportunity for Informal Feedback and Coaching: Provides spontaneous opportunities for
managers to give immediate, informal feedback and coaching, which can be more impactful than
formal reviews. The headteacher might quietly commend a teacher for a particularly engaging
lesson observed, reinforcing positive behavior on the spot.
Better Decision-Making: Decisions are more informed when they are based on a realistic
understanding of ground-level realities, not just reports and statistics.
Requires Specific Skills: Effective MBWA requires good interpersonal skills, active listening,
empathy, and the ability to be non-judgmental. Without these, it can be ineffective or even
counterproductive. A headteacher who only "walks around" to criticize or find fault will quickly
alienate staff and make them defensive.
Limited Scope for Complex Issues: While good for spotting immediate operational issues,
MBWA is less effective for deep-diving into complex, systemic problems that require detailed
analysis and structured discussions.
1. **Extrinsic Rewards:**
* **Definition:** Tangible and measurable rewards that come from outside the individual and
are often controlled by the organization. They are typically financial or material.
* **Examples:**
* **Non-financial (Tangible):** Company car, paid leave, training opportunities (e.g., fully
sponsored Masters degree), company phone/laptop, subsidized meals, gifts, certificates, plaques.
* **Bagamoyo Example:** A teacher receiving a performance bonus at the end of the year
for achieving excellent PSLE results in their class.
2. **Intrinsic Rewards:**
* **Definition:** Non-tangible, psychological rewards that come from within the individual
and are derived from the work itself, providing a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.
* **Examples:**
* **Recognition and Appreciation:** Being publicly acknowledged for good work (e.g.,
"Teacher of the Month" award, positive feedback from headteacher or parents).
* **Autonomy and Control:** Having the freedom to make decisions about one's work
(e.g., choice of teaching methodologies).
* **Meaningful Work:** Feeling that one's work contributes to a larger purpose (e.g.,
shaping young minds, contributing to national development).
* **Personal Growth and Development:** Learning new skills, facing new challenges, and
expanding one's capabilities.
3. **Team-Based Rewards:**
Motivation refers to the internal and external factors that stimulate desire and energy in people to
be continually interested and committed to a job, role, or subject, and to exert effort in attaining a
goal.
Positive Motivation: Involves inspiring individuals to act through rewards, recognition, and
positive reinforcement. Focuses on what an individual gains by performing well. Example: A
headteacher publicly commending a teacher for their innovative teaching methods during a staff
meeting.
Negative (or Fear-Based) Motivation: Involves influencing behavior through the threat of
punishment or negative consequences if performance standards are not met. Example: A warning
letter issued to a teacher for persistent absenteeism, which aims to motivate them to improve
attendance by avoiding further disciplinary action.
Both intrinsic and extrinsic motivations are important, and effective management often involves
a blend of strategies to cater to different individual needs and situations.
Designing an effective staff rewards and motivation scheme for a school in **Bagamoyo, Pwani
Region**, requires considering the local context, available resources, and the types of
motivation.
1. **Performance-Based Allowances/Bonuses:**
* **Mechanism:** Small, annual allowances or one-off bonuses for teachers who consistently
exceed OPRAS targets (e.g., achieving above-average student performance in national exams,
significant improvement in student attendance in their class, leading successful extracurricular
activities).
3. **Material Recognition:**
* **Mechanism:** Regular verbal praise from the headteacher, recognition during staff
meetings, announcement in school assemblies, features on the school noticeboard, or in the
school's newsletter/social media.
* **Consideration (Bagamoyo):** Simple, consistent, and specific praise for good work (e.g.,
"Thank you, Mwalimu Asha, for your innovative use of local materials in your science lesson
last week; it greatly engaged the students!").
4. **Participatory Decision-Making:**
* **Consideration (Bagamoyo):** Regular staff meetings where teachers can voice opinions
and contribute to solutions for school-wide issues (e.g., improving student discipline).
* **Consideration (Bagamoyo):** Regular staff tea breaks, shared lunch areas, or an annual
staff retreat (even a simple one at a local Bagamoyo beach) can significantly boost camaraderie.
1. **Clear Communication:**
* **Strategy:** Clearly communicate the scheme's objectives, criteria for rewards, and
feedback mechanisms to all staff.
* **Strategy:** Ensure that reward criteria are objective, consistently applied, and seen as fair
by all staff.
3. **Leadership by Example:**
* **Strategy:** Headteachers and senior staff must model desired behaviors, show
appreciation, and genuinely participate in the scheme.
* **Strategy:** Periodically review the effectiveness of the scheme, gather feedback from
staff, and make necessary adjustments.
By combining these extrinsic and intrinsic elements, a school in Bagamoyo can create a holistic
rewards and motivation scheme that fosters a high-performing, satisfied, and dedicated teaching
and support staff, contributing to better educational outcomes for its students.