Influence of Head Teachers’ Variables on Preventive Maintenance Practices in Primary Schools in Egor Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined whether preventive maintenance practices in primary schools differ according to the age, years of experience and sex of head teachers in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was used for the study. The sample comprised 13 private and 10 public primary school head teachers selected by cluster random sampling. A validated questionnaire titled "Questionnaire on Preventive Maintenance Practice (QPMP)" was administered to collect data. Data were analysed using frequency distribution, percentages and chi-square tests at 0.05 significance level. Results showed that there was no significant difference in preventive maintenance practice by age of head teacher (χ² = 1.35, df = 3, p > 0.05), by experience of head teacher (χ² = 6.26, df = 3, p > 0.05) or by sex of head teacher (χ² = 2.20, df = 3, p > 0.05). However, descriptive statistics revealed that head teachers aged 51-60 years were more likely to carry out preventive maintenance (very regular: 1; regular: 2) than younger ones. Head teachers with above 10 years of experience were more engaged (very regular: 1; regular: 1; irregular: 5) than those with less experience. Male head teachers (n=13) reported slightly more regular maintenance than female head teachers (n=10). The study concluded that socio-demographic characteristics of head teachers do not significantly influence preventive maintenance practices, although small differences exist in favour of older, more experienced and male head teachers. It is recommended that all head teachers, irrespective of age, experience or sex, should be trained and encouraged to adopt regular preventive maintenance schedules.