Abstract

This study examined key areas the Nigerian technical college (TC) teachers need improvements to effectively teach vocational and technical subjects to foster skills acquisition and improve the quality of graduates. The study was conducted in nine TCs in the south-eastern region of Nigeria. It adopted a mixed methods approach and data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 87 TC teachers and two focus groups with 14 of the teachers. The quantitative data were analyzed using simple percentages, while the qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The patterns of responses among respondents suggested that technical teachers (TTs) need improvements in instructional planning, TCs workshop management, student management, facilities and equipment management for effective teaching of vocational and technical subjects, and for increased learners’ experience to acquire relevant skills to be either paid or self-employed.