Trainers’ competence in the knowledge of the subject content in technical vocational education and training institutions in Bungoma County, Kenya

The purpose of the study was to examine Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Trainer’s competence in the knowledge of the subject content in technical vocational education and training institutions in Bungoma county, Kenya. Understanding trainers’ competence in the knowledge of the subject content has implications for the quality of training because it influences trainers’ motivation, informs curriculum designs and helps to develop department trainer development programs. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The study targeted trainers from the major Technical Vocational Education and Training institutions in Bungoma county, Kenya. The researchers constructed a questionnaire which was used to gather data, which was later analyzed using SPSS. Results indicated that most trainers were satisfied with the training organization and agreed that the tasks and assignments were adequate for teaching and learning. However, majority noted that they are not well motivated, there were delays in provision of timely feedback to the trainees, and that the instructional equipment and materials were inadequate for training and learning. The study concluded that it’s important for all aspects which impact on the quality of teaching and learning to be available for competence development. The study recommended that Technical Vocational Education and Training institutions should lobby the national and county government for more funds to enhance trainers’ salaries and wages as a way of motivating them; increased budget for Technical Vocational Education and Training institutions to enable them purchase the latest training tools, equipment and materials; and that Technical Vocational Education and Training institution administrators control the quality of training by establishing quality assurance offices to coordinate all levels of Technical Vocational Education and Training in Kenya.