Enhancing the Pedagogical Competencies of the Academic Staff through the Provision of Higher Diploma Program: The Case of Addis Ababa Institute of Technology

Abstract

The purpose of this paper was to analyze the contribution of the Higher Diploma Program to the development of pedagogical competences of instructors of Addis Ababa Institute of Technology. To this end, qualitative approach was used as an appropriate tool to undertake an in-depth analysis of the problem. Data were collected by using semi-structured interview guides and document analysis. The primary sources of data were twelve instructors of engineering fields, two university-level teaching and learning support experts, four academic officers of Addis Ababa Institute of Technology (AAiT), and two university level academic officers. The data were analyzed qualitatively by classifying issues of pedagogical competence in various themes. The findings indicated the training helped the trainees improve their pedagogical competences (methods of teaching, classroom management, and assessment), it opened up their interest for further professional development training, it helped them improve their interpersonal skills; and it created for them the opportunity to raise and discuss with colleagues various issues related to the quality of teaching and learning at higher education. Based on the findings, it was concluded that enhancing pedagogical competence of engineering instructors is crucial in improving the teaching and learning processes in engineering education.