Definition of Terms
The following terms are conceptually and operationally
defined for better understanding of the readers.
Assessment – is a systematic process of documenting and
evaluating knowledge, skills and attitudes, and beliefs,
typically through measurable means such as tests, exams, surveys,
or observations. It is used to understand and improve learning,
performance, and other outcomes in various contexts, including
education, healthcare, and business.
Attendance and Punctuality – attendance refers to the act of
being present at a place, such as work, school, or another
scheduled event. Regular attendance is often a requirement and an
indicator of reliability and commitment. Punctuality is the
quality of being on time. It involves arriving or completing the
tasks at a designated time and is considered a key aspect of
professionalism and discipline (Birt, 2023).
Behavioral – It specifies observable and measurable actions,
providing clear and objective description of behavior. This
definition is used in various fields, including psychology,
education, and behavior analysis, to ensure consistency in
understanding and measuring specific behaviors
Collaborations with colleagues – refers to the process of
working together with co-workers to achieve common goals. This
involves sharing knowledge, skills, and responsibilities to
enhance productivity and innovation within a team or organisation
(Shagrir, 2017).
Cognitive Behavior – refers to the mental processes involved
in acquiring knowledge and understanding, including thinking,
knowing, remembering, judging, and problem solving. These
processes encompass a wide range of mental activities that are
part of learning and adapting to the environment (Cherry, 2024).
Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment – Curriculum refers
to the structured set of learning experiences, content, and
materials provided by educational institutions to achieve
specific educational goals. Instruction is the process and method
by which teachers deliver to curriculum to students. It involves
teaching strategies, pedagogical techniques, and the interactions
between educators and students to facilitate learning. Assessment
is the systematic process of measuring student`s understanding,
skills, and knowledge. It includes, various methods such as
tests, quizzes, projects, and observations to evaluate and
improve learning outcomes (Meet, 2024).
Curriculum Standards – It defines the specific learning
goals and expectations for what students should know and be able
to do various stages of their education. These standards are
established by educational authorities to ensure consistency,
coherence, and quality in the educational system. They serve as
benchmarks for curriculum development, instructional practices,
and assessment methods (Mulenga, 2018).
Educational Facilities – refer to the physical spaces and
buildings where educational activities take place. These include
classrooms, laboratories, libraries, auditoriums, sports fields,
and other structures designed to support teaching and learning
(Liego, 2010, p. 25).
Emotional – relates to the feelings and effective states
that influence an individual`s thoughts and behaviors. Emotions
can include a wide range of experiences such as happiness,
sadness, anger, fear and empathy. Emotional responses are often
pivotal in personal development, interpersonal relationships, and
decision-making processes.
Employee Welfare – refers to the various programs, benefits,
and services provided by an employer to ensure the well-being and
satisfaction of their employees. This includes healthy and safety
measures, mental health support, financial benefits, work-life
balance initiatives, and over-all working conditions (Sabil et
al., 2023).
Gender Parity - refers to the state of equal representation
and opportunity of individuals for all gender. In various
contexts, such as employment, education, and politics, gender
parity aims to ensure that men and women have equal access to
opportunities, resources, and rights. Achieving gender parity
involves addressing and reducing disparities and biases that
affect gender equality (Zahidi, 2023).
Gender Responsive Basic Education – involves designing and
implementing educational programs and policies that address and
accommodate the different needs and experiences of all genders.
This approach aims to eliminate gender disparities in education
promoting equality, inclusivity, and fairness. It includes
strategies such as adapting curricula to be gender-sensitive,
providing equal opportunities for participation, and addressing
gender-based barriers to learning (UNESCO, 2022, p. 36).
Human Resource Development – is a comprehensive framework
enhancing the skills, knowledge, and abilities of employee within
an organization. HRD encompasses various practices such as
training, professional development, career planning, and
organizational development. The goal is to improve individual
performance, support career growth, and contribute to the overall
effectiveness and competitiveness of the organization (Swansons &
Holton 2009, p. 87).
Information and Communications Technology (ICT) – it refers
to the integration of Information Technology (IT) and
communication technologies used to manage and exchange
information. ICT encompasses various tools and systems, including
computers, software, networks, and telecommunications, that
facilitate the creation, storage, retrieval, and dissemination of
information (Bryant & Garnham, 2017, p. 22).
Innovative Teaching Approaches - refers to the use of
creative and effective methods to enhance the learning experience
and outcomes. This can involve, integrating new technologies,
employing active learning strategies, incorporating
interdisciplinary perspectives, and adapting teaching practices
to better engage students (Hattie, 2015, p. 95).
Innovativeness and Creativity – Innovativeness refers to
ability to develop and apply novel ideas, processes, products, or
services that brings about significant improvements or solve
problems in new ways. Creativity is the capacity to generate
original and valuable ideas or solutions. It involves thinking
divergently, exploring unconventional perspectives, and combining
existing concepts in new ways (Amabile, 1996, p. 12.).
Intervention Measures - refer to targeted actions or
strategies implemented to support students who may be
experiencing academic, behavioral, or social challenges. These
measures are designed to address specific needs and barriers that
students face in their learning journey. Intervention measures
can include personalized tutoring, additional instructional
support, behavior management techniques, counselling services, or
specialized educational programs (Kirkpatrick & Kirkpatrick,
2016, p. 89).
Learning Delivery - refers to the methods, strategies, and
techniques used to facilitate the transfer of knowledge and
skills from educators to students. It involves selecting
appropriate instructional materials, incorporating interactive
and student-centered activities, utilizing technology, and
adapting teaching approaches to accommodate diverse learning
styles and needs (Garrison & Anderson, 2003, p. 47).
Learning Development – refers to the process of enhancing an
individual's or group's ability to acquire, apply, and integrate
new knowledge and skills. It involves designing and implementing
educational strategies and resources that support continuous
learning and improvement (Biggs & Tang, 2011, p. 55).
Learning Environment - refers to the physical, social,
emotional, and cultural context in which learning takes place
within the school setting. It includes the classroom layout,
resources, and materials used for instruction, as well as the
interactions between teachers, students, and peers (Moos &
Trickett, 1974, p. 10).
Learning Resources - refer to the materials, tools, and
sources of information used to facilitate teaching and learning
activities in the classroom. These resources can include
textbooks, workbooks, educational videos, digital platforms,
manipulatives (like math blocks or science kits), and online
databases, among others (Berk, 2009, p.3).
Learners Development - refers to the growth and progression
of individual`s cognitive, emotional, social, and physical
capacities through educational experiences. This development
encompasses acquisition of knowledge, skills, and attitudes as
learners interact with their environment, engage in various
learning activities, and undergo personal and academic growth
(Flavell, 1999, p. 75).
Learners Support - refers to the various forms of assistance
and resources provided to students to enhance their learning
experience and ensure their success. This support can include
academic help, such as tutoring and remedial classes; emotional
and psychological support, such as counselling and mentoring;
social support, such as peer programs and extracurricular
activities; and physical support, such as health services and
nutritional programs (Tinto, 2017, p. 43)
Planning - refers to the systematic process of designing and
organizing instructional activities, resources, and assessments
to achieve specific educational goals. This involves creating
detailed lesson plans, developing curriculum maps, setting
learning objectives, and preparing teaching materials (Mintzberg,
1994, P.87).
Planning and Field Operations – Planning involves the
process of setting objectives, determining strategies, and
outlining the necessary steps to achieve specific goals. It
includes identifying resources, timelines, and potential
challenges to create a structured approach for achieving desired
outcomes. Field Operations refer to the implementation and
management of plans and activities in real-world settings. This
involves executing planned strategies, managing resources, and
addressing issues that arise during the operational phase
(Harrison & John, 2013, p. 92).
Policies, Programs, Projects, Activities (PPAs) - refer to
the structured and organized initiatives designed to achieve
specific educational goals and improve the overall learning
environment. These initiatives are aimed at enhancing the quality
of education, supporting student development, and fostering a
well-rounded educational experience (Schwab, 2016, p. 108).
Public affairs, Finance and Administration – these have
specific roles and functions within the educational system:
Public affairs involve managing communication and relationships
between the school and its various stakeholders, including
students, parents, the community, government agencies, and the
media. Finance deals with the management of the school’s
financial resources to ensure the effective and efficient use of
funds for educational purposes and Administration refers to the
organization and coordination of school operations to ensure
smooth and effective functioning. Together, these areas support
the educational mission by fostering a positive public image,
ensuring financial stability and accountability, and providing
effective organizational management (Pugh & Hickson, 2007 p. 67).
School Health - refers to the policies, programs, and
practices implemented within educational institutions to promote
and maintain physical, mental, and emotional well-being of
students. This encompasses a range of service and activities,
including health education, medical care, nutrition programs,
mental health support, and emergency preparedness (Lee &
Burgerson, 2006, p. 239)
Social – it pertains to interactions, relationships, and
structures within a group or society. It encompasses aspects
related to how individuals and groups connect, communicate, and
collaborate with each other. This includes social behaviors,
cultural norms, and social institutions that influence and shape
human experiences and interactions (Giddens, 2006, p. 18).
Teachers’ Engagement – refers to the level of commitment,
enthusiasm, and active participation that educators demonstrate
their roles. It encompasses their involvement in teaching,
collaboration with colleagues, professional development, and
contributions to the school community. Engaged teachers are
motivated, invest in their students` success, and continuously
seek ways to improve their practice (Hargreaves & Fullan, 2012,
p. 50).