Influence of Language of Instruction in Enhancing Students’ Acquisition of Knowledge in Secondary Schools in Arusha City Council, Tanzania
Kennedy Omondi Otieno – Coordinator Postgraduate Studies Research & Publications
St. Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT), Arusha
Email: omondiken2016@gmail.com
Loishiye Lengaram Saiteu – Assistant Lecturer, Institute of Accountancy Arusha (IAA)
Email: loishiyesaiteu@gmail.com
Abstract: This study investigated the influence of language of instruction on academic performance of students in secondary schools in Arusha City Council, Tanzania. Objectively, the study found out the effectiveness of language policy in equipping students with the right knowledge in basic education and identified the challenges related to language of instruction faced by secondary school students in Arusha City Council. The study adopted convergent mixed methods design. Interview guide and questionnaires were used to collect data from respondents who consisted of 10 head teachers purposively selected, 101 teachers and 128 students selected by stratified and simple random samplings techniques. The reliability correlation coefficient (r=0.810) for questionnaire was determined. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in the SPSS. Results were presented in tables of frequencies and percentages. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed alongside research questions. Findings revealed that English language policy in secondary schools is not effective, as majority of students do not use it as a medium of instruction. Negative attitude towards foreign language by students, political interference, negative influence of mother tongue, limited teacher’s proficiency in English language and poor classroom participation due to language barriers were identified as challenges facing students. The study concluded that students in secondary schools are not adequately prepared to use English as a medium of instruction in secondary schools. The study recommends heads of schools and teachers to ensure effective English orientation courses to induct students in using English and the Government to review the language policy to enhance its efficiency.
