Addressing the Challenges of Using Teaching Aids in Primary School Classrooms

Abstract

An aid refers to a tool, device, or object essential for carrying out a task. A teaching aid is specifically used for instructional purposes in the classroom. This study sought to identify and examine the particular challenges teachers face when using teaching aids in the classroom. A qualitative design and interview method were used to address the research questions. Data were gathered from ten purposively selected schools and a simple random sample of twenty teachers from those schools from Dhaka and Satkhira. In-depth, one-on-one interviews with primary teachers served as the primary data collection tool, and thematic analysis was employed. Ten themes emerged from the analysis. The findings indicate that, despite teachers’ motivation to use teaching aids, they encounter multiple challenges. These challenges were grouped into two categories. Internal classroom challenges include teachers' reluctance, large class size, inadequate time management, limited ICT skills, heavy workload, and lack of lesson preparation. External challenges encompass poor storage systems, insufficient provision of suitable teaching aids, weak supervision and monitoring, inadequate school facilities and resources, and government policy. The study recommends strategies such as fostering a professional mindset, investing in teacher training, revising government policy on teaching aids, improving teacher recruitment, and enhancing supervision and monitoring.