ASSESSING THE CONDUCT OF BEHAVIOUR IN THE SIX GARRISON BASIC SCHOOL IN THE TAMALE METROPOLIS, USING THE GHANA ARMED FORCES CODE OF SERVICE DISCIPLINE AS A MODEL.

Abstract

Indiscipline has been a worrying phenomenon in many Ghanaian educational institutions. The study focuses on applying the Military Code of Service Discipline in the Six Garrison schools in the Tamale Metropolis to assess its impact on discipline. The study was anchored on self-control theory and social bond theory. The study used an exploratory case study design and mixed research approach. Simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used to collect data from 75 respondents. Simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used. Data collection tools were questionnaires and interview guides. The qualitative data were analysed using direct quotes and paraphrasing of responses and the quantitative data were analysed using the Predictive Analytics Software (PASW). The study revealed among other things that, fostered children, poor family backgrounds, peer influence were some of the causes of indiscipline in the Six Garrison schools. The study also revealed that, the introduction of the Military Code of Service Discipline has improved discipline in the schools in respect of students’ academic performance, dressing as well as sports. Military Code of Service Discipline such as drill, silence hour among others have helped to improve the spirit of teamwork among the students. The major challenge in the implementation of these Military Code of Service Discipline was the institutional conflict between the teachers and the Ghana Armed Forces authorities on the implementation process. The study concluded that, drill, silence hour, non-denominational religious church parade among others should be modified by the Ghana Armed Forces to improve upon the discipline in the schools. The study recommended that, the Ghana Armed Forces authorities should support the teachers to enforce these Military Code of Service Discipline to bring about the desired discipline in the schools.