Conflict Management In Public Primary Schools Of Ejersa Lafo Woreda, West Shoa Zone,Oromia Regional State

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to Conflict management in primary schools of Ejersa Lafo Woreda, West Shoa Zone,Oromia regional state. A descriptive research design was used. A structured questionnaire, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews were used to collect primary data. Secondary data were also obtained from published papers in scientific journals, books, project reports, unpublished materials and maps. A total of 89 sample respondents were selected using a simple random sampling technique from Eights randomly selected primary school for primary data collection. The instruments used were survey questionnaire, interview and document review. The data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics such as mean, standard deviation and one sample t-test. The findings showed that intra-personal, interpersonal, intra-group and intergroup conflicts were the types of conflict observed in the primary school situations. Improper distribution of manpower, inadequate allocation of budget by local governing bodies and competition for scarce resources in schools were seen as the sources of conflicts in school which were accredited by teachers, principals, and vice principals. The finding also shows that, application of different types of conflict management styles with varying frequency illustrates the reality in the schools of primary of Ejersa Lafo. Overall conflict was experienced as a negative force in general, that is perceived as causing defiant attitudes, intolerance, poor cooperation and teamwork, poor relationships, division of unity, poor morale and work ethic, has a negative impact on wellness, leads to absenteeism and ultimately adversely impact on the learners’ learning. The Researcher recommends that the conflict has the positive consequences were improved relationships among staff, greater understanding, improved attitudes, positive change and even personal growth.