EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES OF MANAGING GENERATION “Y” TEACHERS IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN KENYA: THE CASE OF KHWISERO SUB-COUNTY

Abstract

Generation Y teachers present a challenge to school managers in terms of providing to them desirable leadership that can make their strengths become a benefit to the school. Research has identified dealing with the demographic changes within the workplace and specifically recruiting, retaining and managing Generation Y as one of the biggest issues facing employers today. This study sought to establish effective strategies of managing generation “Y” teachers in public secondary schools in Khwisero Sub-county. The study was guided by four objectives namely: to identify the relevant core characteristics of each of the three generations of teachers, assess the aspirations and expectations of Generation Y teachers, identify the challenge presented by entry of Generation Y teachers into the profession, and to establish effective management strategies for Generation Y teachers. A theoretical and empirical review of relevant literature was done. The research design was a descriptive survey carried out in all public secondary schools in Khwisero Sub-county. From the target population, a total of 89 teachers, representing 31% of the 288 teachers, were used as a sample. The stratified random sampling technique was used to ensure the sample was a good representative of the target population. Data collection instrument was a questionnaire whose items were structured on a Likert 4 point rating scale. Both descriptive and inferential statistical analysis techniques were used. This study found that to retain Generation Y, school managers should support teachers’ ability to be effective with their students, by giving them time to collaborate, offering them constructive feedback and providing other rich opportunities for learning. This would help school managers to lead, motivate, and understand Generation Y teachers and in turn help minimize conflict and maximize individual and institutional performance