Perceptions of pre-service male teachers towards early childhood and lower primary education at Hifikepunye Pohamba Campus

Abstract

This study intended to find out the factors that prevent male students from pursuing Early Childhood and Lower Primary Education. Male students from each of the 4 years Bachelor Degree in Early childhood and lower primary were participants in this study that aimed to find out the rea-sons for scarcity of male students in this field. A qualitative research approach was adopted for the collection and analysis of data in understanding the reasons for the reluctance of more male applicants. The findings indicated several factors prohibiting male students from opting for this specialization. Cultural and community notions of teachers in Pre and lower primary have a strong influence on the decision to join this phase of teaching. Securing employment was another influence on their choice of this phase. The study recommends more community awareness campaigns and dissemination of information to Secondary Schools with regards to reducing negative perceptions for this phase.