Exploring pedagogical approaches in the HND Industrial Art Programme of Tamale Technical University and their implication on TVET curriculum development

Abstract

The Higher National Diploma (HND) Industrial Art Programme (Painting and Decoration (P/D) Option) of Tamale Technical University, which began in the 2008/2009 academic year to train students in P/D, has run to date without any formal, external, or empirical evidence known to the researchers showing that the programme has been evaluated. This study aims to assess the existing pedagogical approaches used in the training of students in P/D. To conduct this study, the Concurrent Triangulation Mixed Method research methodology was used, which combines quantitative and qualitative research methods. A sample population of 82 (present students: 22, graduates: 44, lecturers/technicians: 7, and industrial attachment supervisors: 9) was selected using purposive, random, and snowball sampling techniques. From the study, the major findings are that pedagogical approaches to teaching and learning of the programme, and teaching and learning facilities vital in the training of students, were woefully inadequate. Findings also showed that beyond the programmes’ impact, others identified as challenges/constraints hindering the smooth running of the programme include: lack of skilled staff, limited teaching and learning facilities, inadequate funds, and limited industries for industrial attachment. The findings have implications for Ghana’s TVET training. Therefore, it is recommended that there should be collaborations between the polytechnics/technical universities and industry in curriculum development, as done in the advanced world.