Challenges of Using Language Instructional Materials At Preschool in Jimma City Administration

Abstract

Instructional material is essential in well-organized lesson delivery because it enhances language skills of the learners. To rich preschool leaning environment which is filled with a variety of instructional materials tend to foster faster acquisition of requisite skills for sustained learning and development. The various types of language instructional materials that could be selected and utilized by teachers for effective practice teaching were discussed. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to identify the challenges teacher’s faces in using language instructional materials at preschools and related factors. The target population comprised preschool teachers and school principals in Jimma City Administration. They were 19 preschools & school principals were selected for the study purposively. 38 preschool teachers were selected randomly. Questionnaires were used to collect data from preschool teachers while an observation checklist was used to assess the presence of instructional materials used for language development. A Semi-structured interview was used to collect data from the school principal’s opinions and ideas. An Observation schedule was also used to scrutinize the preschools of instructional materials in the classroom and their effective use in language skills. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative techniques and presented in tables, percentages, mean and standard deviation. The study revealed that the use of instructional materials was minimal to enhance language skills. All of the respondents with none difference agreed on as very important in practice of instructional materials usage that enhances language development. Production of language instructional materials and capacity building of teachers needs a critical attention. The study also suggested for further research be carried out on the effect of instructional materials on ECCE.