Teacher educational qualifications and the quality of teacher–student interactions in senior high school classrooms in Ghana: Could teacher self-efficacy bridge the qualifications gap?

Teacher qualifications, self-efficacy, and quality of teacher–student interactions (QTSIs) are critical factors in educational discourse. While research shows varied results for each variable, studies have yet to examine all three variables simultaneously. To what extent does teacher self-efficacy contribute to bridging the qualifications gap toward QTSIs? This study investigates the relationship between teacher educational qualifications and QTSIs and the potential role of teacher self-efficacy in addressing the qualifications gap. An empirical analysis of 419 valid responses from senior high school (SHS) teachers in Ghana utilizing the t-test and ordinary least squares estimators uncovered noteworthy findings. The study revealed a positive influence of teacher educational qualifications on QTSIs, with higher qualifications (master's degree) significantly enhancing QTSIs compared to lower qualifications (bachelor's degree). Teacher self-efficacy positively moderated the impact of teacher educational qualifications on QTSIs. The study also revealed that while higher teacher self-efficacy was beneficial in bridging the educational qualifications gap between bachelor's and master's degrees on QTSIs, it only partially bridged the gap. This study's findings invite policymakers, teacher educators, and school authorities to employ a balanced approach to improving QTSIs in SHS classrooms in Ghana by encouraging teachers to advance their qualifications and creating an enabling environment to develop their self-efficacy.