A Comparative Analysis of Determinants of Effective Supervision in Public and Private Senior Secondary Schools in the Marshall Education District, Margibi County, Liberia, 2025

Abstract

This study presents a comparative analysis of the determinants of effective supervision in public and private senior secondary schools within the Marshall Education District, Margibi County, Liberia.
Drawing on a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 220 respondents, comprising teachers, administrators, and students who were selected through systematic random sampling from a target population of 440.
The research utilized a structured questionnaire, validated through pilot testing and expert review, to examine the frequency, nature, and strategies of supervisory practices in both public and private schools.
Analysis of findings revealed a marked disparity: private schools benefit from more frequent (biannual) and intensive supervision, leading to enhanced feedback and professional development, whereas public schools experience infrequent and more formal or casual oversight.
The study concludes that strengthening and standardizing supervisory practices, particularly by increasing the frequency and intensity of supervision in public schools, will advance educational quality and equity.
Key recommendations include aligning public school supervisory practices with those of private schools, adopting supportive supervision models, and developing unified policies to ensure consistent professional development across sectors.