Vocational Instructors Preparedness for Provision of Competency-Based Training in Kenya and Apprenticeship Training in Saskatchewan, Canada

Abstract

Competency-Based Training (CBT) in Kenya and apprenticeship training in Canada provide trainees with job-ready skills, but emphasis on theory over practice hinders its effectiveness. To fittingly frame the problem, the study asked, what is the level of instructors' know-how in providing CBT in Kenya, and how does their preparation compare to journeypersons in Saskatchewan, Canada? The research involved 33 public Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) in Nakuru City County, Kenya and 23 branch institutions of Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Canada. Concurrent embedded design was utilised. The sample comprised 10 principals, 92 VTC instructors, 261 trainees, 10 industry managers and 4 programme heads drawn from a total population of 377 using stratified, purposive and simple random sampling methods. Questionnaires, interview schedules and observation checklist were used to collect data. Findings showed that Kenyan instructors are deficient in industrial training and professional development. In contrast, findings from Saskatchewan, Canada reveal greater emphasis on active and hands-on involvement, such as apprentice indentureship and mentorship under certified journeypersons. The study concluded that instructors' preparedness had major influence on the provision of competency-based skills to trainees. The study recommends an increase in funding to facilitate industrial training and refresher courses for instructors to improve quality of CBT in Kenya