Factors Influencing the Utilization of Instructional Time in Technical Universities in Ghana: Implications for Adult Learning

Abstract

The primary intent of this study was to investigate factors that influence the utilization of instructional time in public technical universities in Ghana. The study was essentially a mixed method where descriptive survey was used. The target population was made up of classroom lecturers and heads of departments in Technical Universities in Ghana. Out of 10 public technical universities, 5 were selected. A sample size of 168 comprising 154 lecturers and 7 Vice Chancellors and 7 heads of departments was used. Sample selection method used was the multi-stage sample; cluster random sampling, simple random sampling, and purposive sampling techniques were employed. Questionnaire and interview schedules were used to collect data from participants. Percentages and frequencies were used to analyze all the responses from the questionnaire. Interview data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed the technical universities lacked Teaching Learning Materials (TLMs) to facilitate teaching and learning and this posed problem for instructional time. It was concluded that the level of time utilization efficiency on the part of universities, management and lecturers was pertinent in achieving efficient time utilization. It was recommended that lecturers in technical universities particularly should establish instructional time management routines in their classrooms that are in line with improving teaching and learning.