Influence of Headteachers’ Institutional Communication Practices on Implementation of Competency-based Curriculum in Public Primary Schools in Matungulu Sub-County, Machakos County, Kenya

Communication practices adopted by headteachers are important in the implementation of competency-based curriculum in schools.However, in Matungulu Sub-County, implementation of CBC has not been smooth since many learners manifest low competencies in key CBC learning areas.This study sought to assess the influence of headteachers' institutional communication practices of implementation of competency-based curriculum.This study was guided by the communication management and curriculum implementation theories.The research adopted mixed methodology and concurrent triangulation research design.Target population was 1459 respondents which comprised 84 headteachers, 1371 primary school teachers and 4 Curriculum Support Officers (CSOs) from which a sample of 312 respondents was determined using Yamane's Formula.This comprised 20 headteachers, 288 teachers and 4 CSOs.Questionnaires were used to collect data from teachers and interviews for headteachers and CSOs.There was also document analysis guide.Qualitative data were analyzed thematically and presented in narrative form.Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages and inferentially using Pearson's Product Moment Correlation Analysis with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 25) and presented using tables.The study found that CBC implementation is a challenge since many teachers do not cover syllabus in time characterized by low learner competencies.However, many learners manifest good levels of creativity.This has been attributed to headteachers' institutional communication practices.Though, they have adopted communication approaches geared towards CBC implementation.Thus, headteachers should adopt effective communication strategies and approaches to constantly share crucial information about CBC with teachers.