Factors affecting grade 6 learners’ performance in Mathematics in the East London Education District
- Authors: Kwateng, Jesse
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15935 , vital:40565
- Description: Mathematics is one of the most important subjects rooted in many fields of study but has also been one of the greatest challenges for learners in every country, most especially in the Republic of South Africa. There have been attempts to curb the challenges that have bedeviled the success of mathematics education by governments, the Department of Education and many other stakeholders who have not enjoyed positive results in mathematics in the district of East London. Therefore, this study examines factors affecting grade 6 learners’ performance in mathematics in selected schools within the East London education district. There were three hundred and forty-five (345) grade 6 learners and 12 teachers drawn through a parallel mixed methods sampling. Stratified random sampling was used to select participants for the quantitative strand while purposive sampling was used for selecting 60 learners and 12 teachers for the qualitative strand. The researcher used the mixed method research approach. The instruments used in collecting data were structured questionnaire and semi-structured interviews to elicit information from grade 6 learners and teachers. Information gathered from the learners and teachers included: biographical information, factors affecting teaching and learning of mathematics and suggestions. The quantitative data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics of percentage from the responses of learners. The quantitative analysis was done by using excel 2010 to formulate data into percentages and qualitatively, voice recordings from the respondents semi-structured interviews were reduced through thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that some of the qualified mathematics educators preferred to work in another profession. Quality of teaching and learning were less effective due to overcrowded classrooms, inadequate teaching and learning resources, poor monitoring of educators, some of the learners were not adequately motivated and many others. For performance in mathematics to improve in the primary schools in East London Education District, the study made some recommendations from the findings to the stakeholders in education such as the Department of Education, principals, the government, educators and learners. These recommendations might virtually assist in finding lasting solutions to grade 6 learners with mathematics challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Factors affecting grade 6 learners’ performance in Mathematics in the East London Education District
- Authors: Kwateng, Jesse
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15935 , vital:40565
- Description: Mathematics is one of the most important subjects rooted in many fields of study but has also been one of the greatest challenges for learners in every country, most especially in the Republic of South Africa. There have been attempts to curb the challenges that have bedeviled the success of mathematics education by governments, the Department of Education and many other stakeholders who have not enjoyed positive results in mathematics in the district of East London. Therefore, this study examines factors affecting grade 6 learners’ performance in mathematics in selected schools within the East London education district. There were three hundred and forty-five (345) grade 6 learners and 12 teachers drawn through a parallel mixed methods sampling. Stratified random sampling was used to select participants for the quantitative strand while purposive sampling was used for selecting 60 learners and 12 teachers for the qualitative strand. The researcher used the mixed method research approach. The instruments used in collecting data were structured questionnaire and semi-structured interviews to elicit information from grade 6 learners and teachers. Information gathered from the learners and teachers included: biographical information, factors affecting teaching and learning of mathematics and suggestions. The quantitative data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics of percentage from the responses of learners. The quantitative analysis was done by using excel 2010 to formulate data into percentages and qualitatively, voice recordings from the respondents semi-structured interviews were reduced through thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that some of the qualified mathematics educators preferred to work in another profession. Quality of teaching and learning were less effective due to overcrowded classrooms, inadequate teaching and learning resources, poor monitoring of educators, some of the learners were not adequately motivated and many others. For performance in mathematics to improve in the primary schools in East London Education District, the study made some recommendations from the findings to the stakeholders in education such as the Department of Education, principals, the government, educators and learners. These recommendations might virtually assist in finding lasting solutions to grade 6 learners with mathematics challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Factors affecting the learners’ reading culture in English First Additional Language at Grade 5. A case of three primary schools in the Cookhouse and Somerset East area.
- Authors: Snyers, Jonathan Marsel
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Books and reading English language -- Rhetoric
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16342 , vital:40711
- Description: This study investigated the factors affecting the learners’ reading culture in English First Additional Language at grade 5 level in the Cookhouse and Somerset area. The sample consisted of 3 teachers, 3 principals, 18 learners and 3 SGB chairpersons from three different schools. The study focused on three primary schools in the Blue Crane District, which were selected through a purposive sampling technique. Qualitative research was chosen as the research method with a case study as the research design. Data collection instruments consisted of unstandardized in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and documents. Interviews were conducted with the teachers, principals and the chairpersons of the respective schools. The focus group discussions were conducted with learners. In this study, the researcher has analysed data systematically whereby he built through recording procedures during interviews and focus group discussions. The findings highlighted factors, which cause learners’ reading problems. The factors include various physical factors, emotional factors, and little attention to reading skills, lack of motivation, insufficient reading time and material. Educators were of the view that repeated curriculum changes within a short period of time without proper training of educators has an effect on learners’ reading performance. The study revealed that reading is adversely affected by the poor learning conditions in which learners find themselves in because there was a strong relationship between socio-economic factors and reading ability. On that account, the implication is that reading will not improve. The study recommends that the Department of Education pay more attention to pre-service and in-service training of educators so that educators are more knowledgeable in all reading components.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Snyers, Jonathan Marsel
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Books and reading English language -- Rhetoric
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16342 , vital:40711
- Description: This study investigated the factors affecting the learners’ reading culture in English First Additional Language at grade 5 level in the Cookhouse and Somerset area. The sample consisted of 3 teachers, 3 principals, 18 learners and 3 SGB chairpersons from three different schools. The study focused on three primary schools in the Blue Crane District, which were selected through a purposive sampling technique. Qualitative research was chosen as the research method with a case study as the research design. Data collection instruments consisted of unstandardized in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and documents. Interviews were conducted with the teachers, principals and the chairpersons of the respective schools. The focus group discussions were conducted with learners. In this study, the researcher has analysed data systematically whereby he built through recording procedures during interviews and focus group discussions. The findings highlighted factors, which cause learners’ reading problems. The factors include various physical factors, emotional factors, and little attention to reading skills, lack of motivation, insufficient reading time and material. Educators were of the view that repeated curriculum changes within a short period of time without proper training of educators has an effect on learners’ reading performance. The study revealed that reading is adversely affected by the poor learning conditions in which learners find themselves in because there was a strong relationship between socio-economic factors and reading ability. On that account, the implication is that reading will not improve. The study recommends that the Department of Education pay more attention to pre-service and in-service training of educators so that educators are more knowledgeable in all reading components.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Implementation of school-based assessment in high schools, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa : implications for teaching and learning
- Authors: Chipfiko, Jack
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: High schools -- Examinations Educational tests and measurements
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15892 , vital:40549
- Description: The purpose of any education system is to deliver a quality educational product. Various forms of assessment are used to ensure the suitability of the product and inform decisions. In South Africa, School-Based Assessment(SBA) is one of the tools used to assess the content competences, skills, values and attitudes; to provide learners, parents and teachers with results that are a meaningful indication of what the learners know, understand and can do at the time of assessment (DBE, 2012). Surprisingly, on a yearly basis, Umalusi reports reveal that SBA marks are rejected resulting in the learners being resulted on mostly the year end examination. The purpose of this study was to examine the implementation of SBA with a view to unearth the factors contributing to the perennial rejection of SBA marks, resulting in learners from some schools being unfairly assessed. To explore the research problem, a mixed methods study, employing a concurrent triangulation design, was employed. Total Quality Management theory was the theoretical framework anchoring this study. Sub research questions to interrogate the research problem focused on examining the roles of the teachers, learners and parents in the implementation of SBA; assessing the structures in place to support the implementation of SBA; examining how teachers, learners and parents play complementary roles in the implementation of SBA; and identifying strategies to enhance the implementation of SBA in South African (SA) high schools. Data were collected using Questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions with purposively selected samples of teachers, learners and SGB chairpersons from high schools in White River Circuit in Mpumalanga Province in South Africa. The use of mixed methods produced quantitative and qualitative data which were independently analysed and merged during interpretation. Findings revealed that: participants and respondents confirmed the various roles of SBA in teaching and learning; structures were in place to support the implementation of SBA in high schools; complementarity of roles were sporadic in the implementation of SBA in high schools; and various strategies were employed to enhance the implementation of SBA in high schools. Implications for teaching and learning focused on realigning the implementation processes in the production of a quality educational product, and maximising its benefits to teachers, learners and parents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Chipfiko, Jack
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: High schools -- Examinations Educational tests and measurements
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15892 , vital:40549
- Description: The purpose of any education system is to deliver a quality educational product. Various forms of assessment are used to ensure the suitability of the product and inform decisions. In South Africa, School-Based Assessment(SBA) is one of the tools used to assess the content competences, skills, values and attitudes; to provide learners, parents and teachers with results that are a meaningful indication of what the learners know, understand and can do at the time of assessment (DBE, 2012). Surprisingly, on a yearly basis, Umalusi reports reveal that SBA marks are rejected resulting in the learners being resulted on mostly the year end examination. The purpose of this study was to examine the implementation of SBA with a view to unearth the factors contributing to the perennial rejection of SBA marks, resulting in learners from some schools being unfairly assessed. To explore the research problem, a mixed methods study, employing a concurrent triangulation design, was employed. Total Quality Management theory was the theoretical framework anchoring this study. Sub research questions to interrogate the research problem focused on examining the roles of the teachers, learners and parents in the implementation of SBA; assessing the structures in place to support the implementation of SBA; examining how teachers, learners and parents play complementary roles in the implementation of SBA; and identifying strategies to enhance the implementation of SBA in South African (SA) high schools. Data were collected using Questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions with purposively selected samples of teachers, learners and SGB chairpersons from high schools in White River Circuit in Mpumalanga Province in South Africa. The use of mixed methods produced quantitative and qualitative data which were independently analysed and merged during interpretation. Findings revealed that: participants and respondents confirmed the various roles of SBA in teaching and learning; structures were in place to support the implementation of SBA in high schools; complementarity of roles were sporadic in the implementation of SBA in high schools; and various strategies were employed to enhance the implementation of SBA in high schools. Implications for teaching and learning focused on realigning the implementation processes in the production of a quality educational product, and maximising its benefits to teachers, learners and parents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Integration of indigenous knowledge in the intermediate phase school curriculum in a selected education district in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Mkosi, Nkosinathi Ndumiso Lizo
- Authors: Mkosi, Nkosinathi Ndumiso Lizo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16136 , vital:40671
- Description: The aims and principles of the post-apartheid South African school curricula, ranging from the Revised National Curriculum Statement Grades R-9 and the National Curriculum Statement Grades 10-12, to include the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements (Grades 1-12), have been aligned with the aims and principles of the South African Constitution. The aims and principles, among others, speak to the establishment of human rights, inclusivity, environmental and social justice, and valuing of indigenous knowledge systems. These are the bedrock of all the subjects and do not necessarily confine themselves to the science subjects only; even though the call of inclusion of indigenous knowledge in the sciences is oversubscribed. There has been concerns raised variously that the integration of indigenous knowledge systems in the curriculum, generally, and in the teaching of the respective subjects, particularly, does not necessarily happen as it should be. Thus, the purpose of this mixed methods approach study that adopted a concurrent triangulation mixed methods design and premised on the postpositivist paradigm investigated the integration of indigenous knowledge in the Intermediate Phase school curriculum in a selected Education District in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The guiding lenses adopted for this study were two-fold. The main primary theoretical framework drew from three integration theories: (a) Huang and Newell’s (2003) Knowledge Integration Processes and Dynamics notions; (b) Beane’s (1995) Curriculum Integration and the Disciplines of Knowledge and (c) Harden’s (2000) Integration ladder: A Tool for Curriculum Planning and Evaluation. The ‘secondary’ lens of analysis, which the researcher named, the ‘supplemental framework’, was constituted by notions and constructs derived from the indigenous knowledge systems discourses and postcolonial notions and constructs. The study revealed, among other findings, that (i) whilst a majority of teachers claimed to integrate IK in their classrooms, a significant number did not, and those who claimed to be integrating were unsure about how to integrate (ii) the majority of teachers, HoDs and Subject Advisors were either poorly trained or did not receive any training in the integration of IK (iii) the support and monitoring of IK integration was poor to non-existent. Thus, the study proposes a model, the Integrative Indigenous Knowledge Integration Support and Monitoring Model (IIKISMM), which may act as a framework for the coordination of the support and monitoring of IK integration in the school curriculum. There are significant recommendations offered by the study to teachers and policy makers with regards the integration of indigenous knowledge systems in the school curriculum. Also offered by the study are possibilities for further research in the integration of indigenous knowledge system in the curriculum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mkosi, Nkosinathi Ndumiso Lizo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16136 , vital:40671
- Description: The aims and principles of the post-apartheid South African school curricula, ranging from the Revised National Curriculum Statement Grades R-9 and the National Curriculum Statement Grades 10-12, to include the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements (Grades 1-12), have been aligned with the aims and principles of the South African Constitution. The aims and principles, among others, speak to the establishment of human rights, inclusivity, environmental and social justice, and valuing of indigenous knowledge systems. These are the bedrock of all the subjects and do not necessarily confine themselves to the science subjects only; even though the call of inclusion of indigenous knowledge in the sciences is oversubscribed. There has been concerns raised variously that the integration of indigenous knowledge systems in the curriculum, generally, and in the teaching of the respective subjects, particularly, does not necessarily happen as it should be. Thus, the purpose of this mixed methods approach study that adopted a concurrent triangulation mixed methods design and premised on the postpositivist paradigm investigated the integration of indigenous knowledge in the Intermediate Phase school curriculum in a selected Education District in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The guiding lenses adopted for this study were two-fold. The main primary theoretical framework drew from three integration theories: (a) Huang and Newell’s (2003) Knowledge Integration Processes and Dynamics notions; (b) Beane’s (1995) Curriculum Integration and the Disciplines of Knowledge and (c) Harden’s (2000) Integration ladder: A Tool for Curriculum Planning and Evaluation. The ‘secondary’ lens of analysis, which the researcher named, the ‘supplemental framework’, was constituted by notions and constructs derived from the indigenous knowledge systems discourses and postcolonial notions and constructs. The study revealed, among other findings, that (i) whilst a majority of teachers claimed to integrate IK in their classrooms, a significant number did not, and those who claimed to be integrating were unsure about how to integrate (ii) the majority of teachers, HoDs and Subject Advisors were either poorly trained or did not receive any training in the integration of IK (iii) the support and monitoring of IK integration was poor to non-existent. Thus, the study proposes a model, the Integrative Indigenous Knowledge Integration Support and Monitoring Model (IIKISMM), which may act as a framework for the coordination of the support and monitoring of IK integration in the school curriculum. There are significant recommendations offered by the study to teachers and policy makers with regards the integration of indigenous knowledge systems in the school curriculum. Also offered by the study are possibilities for further research in the integration of indigenous knowledge system in the curriculum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Perceptions on the efficacy of equine assisted play therapy™ in addressing low self-esteem of young bullied children
- Authors: Van Loggerenberg, Monique
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Animals -- Therapeutic use , Play therapy Bullying Self-esteem -- South Africa Educational psychology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44179 , vital:37126
- Description: During the past decade, a surge of research emerged regarding the human-animal bond and how interactions with animals could be beneficial to both humans and animals on emotional, cognitive and biological levels. However, amongst others, a gap in literature on the experiences and perceptions of participants involved in animal assisted therapy programmes remain. This research focused on a specific population (bully victims presenting with low self-esteem in the middle childhood phase), also reflecting the perceptions of parties not directly involved in therapy, such as parents and teachers. This research adhered to strict ethical standards in accordance to NMU’s Ethical guidelines as well as in accordance to guidelines provided by the International Institute of Animal Assisted Play Therapy™. The welfare of both the horse and humans involved in this study was deemed equally important. Based upon the Gestalt therapy theory, the therapees were given the opportunity to explore alternatives, be creative and reveal specific therapeutic elements needing attention during each session. The focus was on building a therapeutic relationship in which the therapees could trust themselves, the therapist and horse to find the answers they needed and obtain the necessary skills to overcome feelings of helplessness when being bullied. Therapees presenting with low self-esteem results in specific vulnerability as it can be both the cause of being bullied or lead to being bullied. During the Equine Assisted Play Therapy™ (EAPT™) sessions the disempowered victim was allowed the opportunity to succeed in being assertive. Such children in therapy were given the opportunity to take centre-stage without being made fun of, whilst being encouraged to try out new behaviour and experience personal change. This study highlighted the perceptions of parents and teachers and the lived experiences of bully-victims. Exploring the efficacy of a relatively new therapeutic method, EAPT™ in addressing the low self-esteem levels and subsequent behaviour in the children who participated in this form of therapy, showed promising results in increasing self-esteem levels and positive behavioural changes in therapees.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Van Loggerenberg, Monique
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Animals -- Therapeutic use , Play therapy Bullying Self-esteem -- South Africa Educational psychology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44179 , vital:37126
- Description: During the past decade, a surge of research emerged regarding the human-animal bond and how interactions with animals could be beneficial to both humans and animals on emotional, cognitive and biological levels. However, amongst others, a gap in literature on the experiences and perceptions of participants involved in animal assisted therapy programmes remain. This research focused on a specific population (bully victims presenting with low self-esteem in the middle childhood phase), also reflecting the perceptions of parties not directly involved in therapy, such as parents and teachers. This research adhered to strict ethical standards in accordance to NMU’s Ethical guidelines as well as in accordance to guidelines provided by the International Institute of Animal Assisted Play Therapy™. The welfare of both the horse and humans involved in this study was deemed equally important. Based upon the Gestalt therapy theory, the therapees were given the opportunity to explore alternatives, be creative and reveal specific therapeutic elements needing attention during each session. The focus was on building a therapeutic relationship in which the therapees could trust themselves, the therapist and horse to find the answers they needed and obtain the necessary skills to overcome feelings of helplessness when being bullied. Therapees presenting with low self-esteem results in specific vulnerability as it can be both the cause of being bullied or lead to being bullied. During the Equine Assisted Play Therapy™ (EAPT™) sessions the disempowered victim was allowed the opportunity to succeed in being assertive. Such children in therapy were given the opportunity to take centre-stage without being made fun of, whilst being encouraged to try out new behaviour and experience personal change. This study highlighted the perceptions of parents and teachers and the lived experiences of bully-victims. Exploring the efficacy of a relatively new therapeutic method, EAPT™ in addressing the low self-esteem levels and subsequent behaviour in the children who participated in this form of therapy, showed promising results in increasing self-esteem levels and positive behavioural changes in therapees.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Political education as a determinant of university students’ political participation in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Badaru, Kazeem Ajasa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Citizenship -- Study and teaching -- South Africa Democracy and education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15793 , vital:40524
- Description: Globally, there is a downward trend in youths’ political interest and participation in the learning of political education in their school curricula as a measure to combat the apparent dangers posed by the declining young citizens’ participation in the political processes.This study therefore investigated political education as a determinant of university students’ political participation in the Province of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The study employed a mixed methods design. Using the probability sampling technique, a sample of 375 participants was randomly selected from one university in the Eastern Cape Province while semi-structured interviews were conducted among five (5) purposively selected members of the same university’s Student Representative Council (SRC) executive committee. Simple descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and percentages were used to summarize all categories of variables; while Pearson correlation statistics, Chi-square and Ordinary least square regression were used to examine the relationship between dependent and independent variables at a 95percent confidence interval. Alpha values less than 0.05 were considered to be statistically significant. Thematic content analysis was performed on the qualitative data. The quantitative analysis revealed that students’ level of political awareness was high; 98.1percent of them were aware of their rights to vote and be voted for. Students’ political judgment was positively correlated with participation in campus (r =0.182) and national politics (r = 0.030) respectively. Most of the students agreed to take part in the 2018 SRC (78.8percent) and 2019 national elections (77.9percent) respectively. Political interest was significantly correlated with participation in campus (r = 0.375) and national politics (r =0. 404). The findings from the multivariate analysis showed that political interest (<0.001), parents’ political involvement (<0.001) and year of study (<0.001) were the significant determinants of students’ participation in politics. The qualitative findings also showed that there was a positive relationship between political education and students’ participation in politics. Since political interest and family are element and agent of political education respectively, it is concluded that political education is to a large extent a determinant of university students’ political participation. It is recommended that the universities, the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and other stakeholders should do a thorough review of the university education curricula and programmes to ensure that political education is adequately accommodated and taken care of in a way that would increase students’ interest, awareness and participation in politics. When this is amply done, students’ cognitive skills and capacities would be enhanced to increase their participation in the political processes in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Badaru, Kazeem Ajasa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Citizenship -- Study and teaching -- South Africa Democracy and education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15793 , vital:40524
- Description: Globally, there is a downward trend in youths’ political interest and participation in the learning of political education in their school curricula as a measure to combat the apparent dangers posed by the declining young citizens’ participation in the political processes.This study therefore investigated political education as a determinant of university students’ political participation in the Province of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The study employed a mixed methods design. Using the probability sampling technique, a sample of 375 participants was randomly selected from one university in the Eastern Cape Province while semi-structured interviews were conducted among five (5) purposively selected members of the same university’s Student Representative Council (SRC) executive committee. Simple descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and percentages were used to summarize all categories of variables; while Pearson correlation statistics, Chi-square and Ordinary least square regression were used to examine the relationship between dependent and independent variables at a 95percent confidence interval. Alpha values less than 0.05 were considered to be statistically significant. Thematic content analysis was performed on the qualitative data. The quantitative analysis revealed that students’ level of political awareness was high; 98.1percent of them were aware of their rights to vote and be voted for. Students’ political judgment was positively correlated with participation in campus (r =0.182) and national politics (r = 0.030) respectively. Most of the students agreed to take part in the 2018 SRC (78.8percent) and 2019 national elections (77.9percent) respectively. Political interest was significantly correlated with participation in campus (r = 0.375) and national politics (r =0. 404). The findings from the multivariate analysis showed that political interest (<0.001), parents’ political involvement (<0.001) and year of study (<0.001) were the significant determinants of students’ participation in politics. The qualitative findings also showed that there was a positive relationship between political education and students’ participation in politics. Since political interest and family are element and agent of political education respectively, it is concluded that political education is to a large extent a determinant of university students’ political participation. It is recommended that the universities, the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and other stakeholders should do a thorough review of the university education curricula and programmes to ensure that political education is adequately accommodated and taken care of in a way that would increase students’ interest, awareness and participation in politics. When this is amply done, students’ cognitive skills and capacities would be enhanced to increase their participation in the political processes in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Pre-natal maternal stress and its potential correlation to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): An exploration into the potential correlation between the prevalence of chronic stress among a sample of Eastern Cape (South African) women during pregnancy and the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in their children by the time they are of school-going age
- Authors: Mukheibir, Adrienne Jayne
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder , Learning, Psychology of Adaptability (Psychology) Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42353 , vital:36648
- Description: This study is an exploration into the potential correlation between the prevalence of chronic stress during pregnancy among a sample of Eastern Cape (South African) mothers and a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in their school-going children. The theoretical framework on which this study is based is Barker’s Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) model. This model proposes that in utero development is influenced by the intrauterine milieu provided by the mother, where even a slight deviation to this environment during critical periods of development can lead to alterations in structure, physiology and metabolism in the child via fetal programming, which, depending on the cause, timing, duration and intensity of the stress, can cause pervasive, long-lasting consequences to disease and health later in life. This particular study examines existing literature regarding the phenomenon of how prenatal maternal stress (PNMS), as the adverse in utero influence, exerts a long-lasting negative effect on fetal development in the form of ADHD in childhood, and compares these findings to the circumstances surrounding a sample of 60 mothers whose school-going children have been diagnosed with ADHD. A mixed methods approach was used in this study, incorporating firstly a quantitative strand of Eastern Cape mothers where the prevalence and range of chronic stress during gestation was explored. From this sample, a qualitative sample was selected to provide more in-depth information regarding their stressful pregnancies. The flipside of the DOHaD model is that because of fetal developmental plasticity, positive in utero influences can undo the harmful effects caused by over-exposure to stress hormones, thereby enhancing fetal development. Unfortunately, this study highlighted how few mothers were aware of the positive influence a relaxation intervention programme could have on reducing stress which could alter the trajectory of their child’s development. The significant role that a genetic predisposition towards ADHD plays is not being debated. However, this study has provided much needed insight about PNMS as a negative influence on gestational development that could lead to the onset of, or exacerbation of ADHD traits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mukheibir, Adrienne Jayne
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder , Learning, Psychology of Adaptability (Psychology) Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42353 , vital:36648
- Description: This study is an exploration into the potential correlation between the prevalence of chronic stress during pregnancy among a sample of Eastern Cape (South African) mothers and a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in their school-going children. The theoretical framework on which this study is based is Barker’s Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) model. This model proposes that in utero development is influenced by the intrauterine milieu provided by the mother, where even a slight deviation to this environment during critical periods of development can lead to alterations in structure, physiology and metabolism in the child via fetal programming, which, depending on the cause, timing, duration and intensity of the stress, can cause pervasive, long-lasting consequences to disease and health later in life. This particular study examines existing literature regarding the phenomenon of how prenatal maternal stress (PNMS), as the adverse in utero influence, exerts a long-lasting negative effect on fetal development in the form of ADHD in childhood, and compares these findings to the circumstances surrounding a sample of 60 mothers whose school-going children have been diagnosed with ADHD. A mixed methods approach was used in this study, incorporating firstly a quantitative strand of Eastern Cape mothers where the prevalence and range of chronic stress during gestation was explored. From this sample, a qualitative sample was selected to provide more in-depth information regarding their stressful pregnancies. The flipside of the DOHaD model is that because of fetal developmental plasticity, positive in utero influences can undo the harmful effects caused by over-exposure to stress hormones, thereby enhancing fetal development. Unfortunately, this study highlighted how few mothers were aware of the positive influence a relaxation intervention programme could have on reducing stress which could alter the trajectory of their child’s development. The significant role that a genetic predisposition towards ADHD plays is not being debated. However, this study has provided much needed insight about PNMS as a negative influence on gestational development that could lead to the onset of, or exacerbation of ADHD traits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Pre-service education students’ application of visualisation strategies to solve mathematical word-problems
- Authors: Shaw, Peter
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Word problems (Mathematics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16604 , vital:40735
- Description: This classroom-based action research dissertation examined visualisation strategies used by pre-service Intermediate Phase PGCE education students to solve mathematical word-problems. The setting was an Eastern Cape university. Previous literature indicated a positive correlation between the use of visual scaffolds and success in solving word problems. However, a gap was found insofar as little research had been published on the application of visualisation to word-problems by student teachers in South Africa. This thesis advances our understanding of the role visualisation may play in assisting student teachers to solve word-problems. The theoretic framework was informed by Bruner’s theory of learning. The research was grounded in the hermeneutic tradition. An interpretivist research paradigm was expedited by using an inductive, naturalistic perspective and relativist ontology. Thirty-eight student-teachers participated in the study. Parallel and convergent qualitative and quantitative data gathering instruments were used, thereby facilitating triangulation and examination for microgenesis. It was found that vestiges of past teaching practices initially limited the participants’ knowledge to a deeply-flawed, banking model of routines and an instrumental perception of mathematics. Disruptive calls for social justice impeded progress. Albeit visualisation strategies liberated understanding, many foundational concepts and skills had to be reconstructed. The confluence of time and rehearsal culminated in some measure of expertise. Sustained effort enabled new knowledge to be compressed and consigned to long-term memory. Salient visual representations assisted participants to conceptualise relational mathematical meta-concepts and reduced the cognitive demands imposed by word-problems but that achievement was a hard-won prize.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Shaw, Peter
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Word problems (Mathematics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16604 , vital:40735
- Description: This classroom-based action research dissertation examined visualisation strategies used by pre-service Intermediate Phase PGCE education students to solve mathematical word-problems. The setting was an Eastern Cape university. Previous literature indicated a positive correlation between the use of visual scaffolds and success in solving word problems. However, a gap was found insofar as little research had been published on the application of visualisation to word-problems by student teachers in South Africa. This thesis advances our understanding of the role visualisation may play in assisting student teachers to solve word-problems. The theoretic framework was informed by Bruner’s theory of learning. The research was grounded in the hermeneutic tradition. An interpretivist research paradigm was expedited by using an inductive, naturalistic perspective and relativist ontology. Thirty-eight student-teachers participated in the study. Parallel and convergent qualitative and quantitative data gathering instruments were used, thereby facilitating triangulation and examination for microgenesis. It was found that vestiges of past teaching practices initially limited the participants’ knowledge to a deeply-flawed, banking model of routines and an instrumental perception of mathematics. Disruptive calls for social justice impeded progress. Albeit visualisation strategies liberated understanding, many foundational concepts and skills had to be reconstructed. The confluence of time and rehearsal culminated in some measure of expertise. Sustained effort enabled new knowledge to be compressed and consigned to long-term memory. Salient visual representations assisted participants to conceptualise relational mathematical meta-concepts and reduced the cognitive demands imposed by word-problems but that achievement was a hard-won prize.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Reimagining sexuality education: Xhosa secondary school teachers from township schools talk about Xhosa culture and sexuality education
- Msutwana, Nomawonga Veronica
- Authors: Msutwana, Nomawonga Veronica
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Education,Secondary --South africa Xhosa Culture Xhosa(african people)--Social life and customs
- Language: English
- Type: PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38794 , vital:34966
- Description: The study sought to explore how a deeper understanding of the influence of Xhosa cultural perspectives on learning about sexuality could inform how Xhosa Life Orientation (L0), Life Sciences (LFSC) and Natural Sciences (NS) secondary school teachers could teach sexuality education to Xhosa adolescents. Teachers who teach sexuality education do not seem to succeed in equipping their adolescent learners with the necessary knowledge, values and skills for navigating safely through the development and expression of their sexuality. This is deemed important in South Africa where the HIV and AIDS epidemic is not yet fully under control and where gender-based violence remains a problem. The study took on a qualitative, participatory visual methodology within the interpretive and critical paradigms. It drew on Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) as a lens to frame the study and through which data was interpreted and analysed. Thus, the research study involved nine female Xhosa LO, LFSC and NS township secondary school teachers who were purposively selected. Data were generated through four methods, namely document analysis, drawing, photo voice and curriculum posters. The generated data were analysed using thematic analysis and yielded rich findings for the five sub-questions, thereby answering the main research question.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Msutwana, Nomawonga Veronica
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Education,Secondary --South africa Xhosa Culture Xhosa(african people)--Social life and customs
- Language: English
- Type: PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38794 , vital:34966
- Description: The study sought to explore how a deeper understanding of the influence of Xhosa cultural perspectives on learning about sexuality could inform how Xhosa Life Orientation (L0), Life Sciences (LFSC) and Natural Sciences (NS) secondary school teachers could teach sexuality education to Xhosa adolescents. Teachers who teach sexuality education do not seem to succeed in equipping their adolescent learners with the necessary knowledge, values and skills for navigating safely through the development and expression of their sexuality. This is deemed important in South Africa where the HIV and AIDS epidemic is not yet fully under control and where gender-based violence remains a problem. The study took on a qualitative, participatory visual methodology within the interpretive and critical paradigms. It drew on Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) as a lens to frame the study and through which data was interpreted and analysed. Thus, the research study involved nine female Xhosa LO, LFSC and NS township secondary school teachers who were purposively selected. Data were generated through four methods, namely document analysis, drawing, photo voice and curriculum posters. The generated data were analysed using thematic analysis and yielded rich findings for the five sub-questions, thereby answering the main research question.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Selected stakeholders’ views on the use of tablet computers in learning and teaching – a South African case study at a university
- Fernandez, Simon Christopher
- Authors: Fernandez, Simon Christopher
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Computer-assisted instruction Tablet computers Educational technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15903 , vital:40553
- Description: The popularity of mobile technologies has greatly influenced the people of all ages, especially adolescents. Tablet computers as part of mobile technologies, were launched in colleges and universities in many countries to supplement and complement learning and teaching. However, research reports based on the effectiveness of the use of tablet computers in higher education institutions in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province are scarce. In order to address the deficiency, this study examined the views of stakeholders such as students, lecturers and managers on the use of tablet computers for learning and teaching in one of the Eastern Cape universities. The research adopted the Post-Positivist paradigm and mixed method approach. The theoretical frameworks were Constructivism and Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge. The sample consisted of (a) 155 students from a population of 254 extended-stream National Diploma students in Information and Communication Technology and National Diploma Electrical Engineering cohorts; (b) 14 lecturers from a relevant population of 25; and, (c) 16 managers from a population of 20. Three separate questionnaires as well as interview protocols for each of the stakeholder cohorts provided the core data. All members in the sample were surveyed. The researcher opted to be an outsider and received assistance from a few qualified trained academics to administer the questionnaire to students in different cohorts in order to minimise data bias. Only 18 students, five lecturers and nine managers were interviewed. Quantitative data were captured manually into Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 24) and they were analysed using descriptive and inferential analysis: Analysis of Variance and Independent Samples t-test. Qualitative data were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis to generate major themes and sub themes for the sub-research questions. Main strengths of using tablets from the findings of the study were (a) tablets motivated students in learning and lecturers in teaching (b) students understood the different styles of learning (c) enhanced students’ engagement and collaboration in learning. Main weakness of using tablets were students’ use of tablets for personal work and social networking during class hours was causing distractions to lecturers and other students. Generally, the evidence shows that strengths were greater than the weaknesses. It should also be noted that all stakeholders were positive and not statistically significantly different from each other in their views towards the use of tablets for learning and teaching in university classroom. However, students had views different from lecturers on the advantages and disadvantages of using tablets. The variance could be due to new students or new lecturers’ ignorance in the effective use of tablets and this might change as their familiarity in the use of the device improves. The research report makes a few recommendations which include training to all students and lecturers on the effective use of tablet computers for learning and teaching and installation of relevant applications before the commencement of each academic year. Moreover, the Information and communication technology technical staff must prevent students from visiting unwanted and restricted sites by keeping a network based tracker and blocker software application.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Fernandez, Simon Christopher
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Computer-assisted instruction Tablet computers Educational technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15903 , vital:40553
- Description: The popularity of mobile technologies has greatly influenced the people of all ages, especially adolescents. Tablet computers as part of mobile technologies, were launched in colleges and universities in many countries to supplement and complement learning and teaching. However, research reports based on the effectiveness of the use of tablet computers in higher education institutions in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province are scarce. In order to address the deficiency, this study examined the views of stakeholders such as students, lecturers and managers on the use of tablet computers for learning and teaching in one of the Eastern Cape universities. The research adopted the Post-Positivist paradigm and mixed method approach. The theoretical frameworks were Constructivism and Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge. The sample consisted of (a) 155 students from a population of 254 extended-stream National Diploma students in Information and Communication Technology and National Diploma Electrical Engineering cohorts; (b) 14 lecturers from a relevant population of 25; and, (c) 16 managers from a population of 20. Three separate questionnaires as well as interview protocols for each of the stakeholder cohorts provided the core data. All members in the sample were surveyed. The researcher opted to be an outsider and received assistance from a few qualified trained academics to administer the questionnaire to students in different cohorts in order to minimise data bias. Only 18 students, five lecturers and nine managers were interviewed. Quantitative data were captured manually into Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 24) and they were analysed using descriptive and inferential analysis: Analysis of Variance and Independent Samples t-test. Qualitative data were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis to generate major themes and sub themes for the sub-research questions. Main strengths of using tablets from the findings of the study were (a) tablets motivated students in learning and lecturers in teaching (b) students understood the different styles of learning (c) enhanced students’ engagement and collaboration in learning. Main weakness of using tablets were students’ use of tablets for personal work and social networking during class hours was causing distractions to lecturers and other students. Generally, the evidence shows that strengths were greater than the weaknesses. It should also be noted that all stakeholders were positive and not statistically significantly different from each other in their views towards the use of tablets for learning and teaching in university classroom. However, students had views different from lecturers on the advantages and disadvantages of using tablets. The variance could be due to new students or new lecturers’ ignorance in the effective use of tablets and this might change as their familiarity in the use of the device improves. The research report makes a few recommendations which include training to all students and lecturers on the effective use of tablet computers for learning and teaching and installation of relevant applications before the commencement of each academic year. Moreover, the Information and communication technology technical staff must prevent students from visiting unwanted and restricted sites by keeping a network based tracker and blocker software application.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Strategies schools in a low-socio-economic are used to maintain discipline
- Authors: Manuel, Bianca Winestine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Corporal punishment -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44550 , vital:38143
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the strategies schools use to maintain discipline in a low socio-economic area. Poor discipline in public schools has become a major concern following the abolition of corporal punishment by the National Department of Education. The educational authorities left educators in schools with no constructive alternatives to maintain discipline and alternative strategies had to be found and implemented. Data were collected be means of semi-structured interviews, from principals, educators and school governing body (SGB) members. Three neighbouring high schools in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth in the Nelson Mandela Bay District of Education were used. A qualitative research approach was employed in the study. The findings supported the literature that was consulted in that there is a wide range of causes of disciplinary problems in schools. According to the findings, there is a lack of effective strategies to maintain discipline in schools but Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory is in line with the perceptions of the respondents in this study. This study opened a door for further research into effective strategies that are in line with the changing teaching environment in low socio-economic areas. The government should come on board to create an environment to promote the good life for educators and learners. The final outcome of this study focused on strategies that principals, educators and SGB members can use to maintain discipline in low socio-economic areas. These strategies can create an environment that is conducive for teaching and learning, especially in schools situated in low socio-economic areas. These include consistency, parental involvement, detention, suspension and the home environment and socio-economic circumstances. Learners must be disciplined and parents must be involved in the maintenance of discipline in schools situated in low socio-economic areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Manuel, Bianca Winestine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Corporal punishment -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44550 , vital:38143
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the strategies schools use to maintain discipline in a low socio-economic area. Poor discipline in public schools has become a major concern following the abolition of corporal punishment by the National Department of Education. The educational authorities left educators in schools with no constructive alternatives to maintain discipline and alternative strategies had to be found and implemented. Data were collected be means of semi-structured interviews, from principals, educators and school governing body (SGB) members. Three neighbouring high schools in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth in the Nelson Mandela Bay District of Education were used. A qualitative research approach was employed in the study. The findings supported the literature that was consulted in that there is a wide range of causes of disciplinary problems in schools. According to the findings, there is a lack of effective strategies to maintain discipline in schools but Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory is in line with the perceptions of the respondents in this study. This study opened a door for further research into effective strategies that are in line with the changing teaching environment in low socio-economic areas. The government should come on board to create an environment to promote the good life for educators and learners. The final outcome of this study focused on strategies that principals, educators and SGB members can use to maintain discipline in low socio-economic areas. These strategies can create an environment that is conducive for teaching and learning, especially in schools situated in low socio-economic areas. These include consistency, parental involvement, detention, suspension and the home environment and socio-economic circumstances. Learners must be disciplined and parents must be involved in the maintenance of discipline in schools situated in low socio-economic areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Strategies schools in a low-socio-economic area use to maintain discipline
- Authors: Manuel, Bianca Winestine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: School discipline
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Med
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44512 , vital:38069
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the strategies schools use to maintain discipline in a low socio-economic area. Poor discipline in public schools has become a major concern following the abolition of corporal punishment by the National Department of Education. The educational authorities left educators in schools with no constructive alternatives to maintain discipline and alternative strategies had to be found and implemented. Data were collected be means of semi-structured interviews, from principals, educators and school governing body (SGB) members. Three neighbouring high schools in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth in the Nelson Mandela Bay District of Education were used. A qualitative research approach was employed in the study. The findings supported the literature that was consulted in that there is a wide range of causes of disciplinary problems in schools. According to the findings, there is a lack of effective strategies to maintain discipline in schools but Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory is in line with the perceptions of the respondents in this study. Study opened a door for further research into effective strategies that are in line with the changing teaching environment in low socio-economic areas. The government should come on board to create an environment to promote the good life for educators and learners. The final outcome of this study focused on strategies that principals, educators and SGB members can use to maintain discipline in low socio-economic areas. These strategies can create an environment that is conducive for teaching and learning, especially in schools situated in low socio-economic areas. These include consistency, parental involvement, detention, suspension and the home environment and socio-economic circumstances. Learners must be disciplined and parents must be involved in the maintenance of discipline in schools situated in low socio-economic areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Manuel, Bianca Winestine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: School discipline
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Med
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44512 , vital:38069
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the strategies schools use to maintain discipline in a low socio-economic area. Poor discipline in public schools has become a major concern following the abolition of corporal punishment by the National Department of Education. The educational authorities left educators in schools with no constructive alternatives to maintain discipline and alternative strategies had to be found and implemented. Data were collected be means of semi-structured interviews, from principals, educators and school governing body (SGB) members. Three neighbouring high schools in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth in the Nelson Mandela Bay District of Education were used. A qualitative research approach was employed in the study. The findings supported the literature that was consulted in that there is a wide range of causes of disciplinary problems in schools. According to the findings, there is a lack of effective strategies to maintain discipline in schools but Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory is in line with the perceptions of the respondents in this study. Study opened a door for further research into effective strategies that are in line with the changing teaching environment in low socio-economic areas. The government should come on board to create an environment to promote the good life for educators and learners. The final outcome of this study focused on strategies that principals, educators and SGB members can use to maintain discipline in low socio-economic areas. These strategies can create an environment that is conducive for teaching and learning, especially in schools situated in low socio-economic areas. These include consistency, parental involvement, detention, suspension and the home environment and socio-economic circumstances. Learners must be disciplined and parents must be involved in the maintenance of discipline in schools situated in low socio-economic areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Student teachers’ perceptions of their school mentors’ interpersonal collegial leadership competencies to develop their work-integrated learning knowledge and skills
- Authors: Mahomed, Carmel Claire
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Educational leadership , Mentoring in education -- South Africa Student teachers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42548 , vital:36667
- Description: Mentoring is indispensable for the adjustment of student teachers to the demands of the school work-integrated learning environment. Despite the benefits of mentoring to student teachers, a challenge is the inconsistency of the mentoring programmes within and across schools. An additional challenge is the predominance of bureaucratic models of mentoring, which have the potential of perpetuating a hierarchical approach to mentoring if student teachers use mentor teachers who depend on bureaucratic models of mentoring as role models. Therefore, to ensure that student teachers are exposed to a cross-pollination of expertise from all teachers in the schools, this study proposes a collegial approach to mentoring to determine the impact of the collegial competencies of the mentor teachers on the student teachers’ acquisition of work-integrated learning. A case study in a higher education institution was conducted to obtain data regarding the perceptions of two hundred and forty-one student teachers of their mentor teachers’ interpersonal competencies. The student teachers in this study were all in the final year of their initial teacher education qualification. The respondents comprised student teachers from the Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Further Education and Training and Postgraduate Certificate in Education. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire. The focus in the questionnaire was on the competencies: interpersonal collegial leadership, communication, empathy, trust, content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge. The findings revealed that the student teachers’ perceptions of their mentor teachers’ competencies relating to their internal collegial leadership, proficiency in communication, capacity for empathy and ability to establish trust were positive. The mentor teacher competencies of interpersonal collegial leadership, communication, empathy and trust revealed emotional intelligence competencies in their relationships with the student teachers. The findings also revealed that the student teachers' perceptions of their mentor teachers’ competencies relating to content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge were positive. The mentor teachers’ content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge revealed their competencies associated with their cognitive skills (IQ) in the school work-integrated environment. The findings also indicated that, in terms of their interpersonal collegial leadership, the mentor teachers were not inclined to harness the expertise of their colleagues to ensure that there was a collegial approach to mentoring among all the teachers in a school. This might be a reason for the inability of some mentor teachers to shift their paradigms from bureaucratic approaches to mentoring to collegial approaches. The adoption of collegial approaches to mentoring with a focus on competencies associated with both EI and IQ has the potential to impact markedly on the enhancement of the professional development of student teachers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mahomed, Carmel Claire
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Educational leadership , Mentoring in education -- South Africa Student teachers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42548 , vital:36667
- Description: Mentoring is indispensable for the adjustment of student teachers to the demands of the school work-integrated learning environment. Despite the benefits of mentoring to student teachers, a challenge is the inconsistency of the mentoring programmes within and across schools. An additional challenge is the predominance of bureaucratic models of mentoring, which have the potential of perpetuating a hierarchical approach to mentoring if student teachers use mentor teachers who depend on bureaucratic models of mentoring as role models. Therefore, to ensure that student teachers are exposed to a cross-pollination of expertise from all teachers in the schools, this study proposes a collegial approach to mentoring to determine the impact of the collegial competencies of the mentor teachers on the student teachers’ acquisition of work-integrated learning. A case study in a higher education institution was conducted to obtain data regarding the perceptions of two hundred and forty-one student teachers of their mentor teachers’ interpersonal competencies. The student teachers in this study were all in the final year of their initial teacher education qualification. The respondents comprised student teachers from the Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Further Education and Training and Postgraduate Certificate in Education. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire. The focus in the questionnaire was on the competencies: interpersonal collegial leadership, communication, empathy, trust, content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge. The findings revealed that the student teachers’ perceptions of their mentor teachers’ competencies relating to their internal collegial leadership, proficiency in communication, capacity for empathy and ability to establish trust were positive. The mentor teacher competencies of interpersonal collegial leadership, communication, empathy and trust revealed emotional intelligence competencies in their relationships with the student teachers. The findings also revealed that the student teachers' perceptions of their mentor teachers’ competencies relating to content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge were positive. The mentor teachers’ content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge revealed their competencies associated with their cognitive skills (IQ) in the school work-integrated environment. The findings also indicated that, in terms of their interpersonal collegial leadership, the mentor teachers were not inclined to harness the expertise of their colleagues to ensure that there was a collegial approach to mentoring among all the teachers in a school. This might be a reason for the inability of some mentor teachers to shift their paradigms from bureaucratic approaches to mentoring to collegial approaches. The adoption of collegial approaches to mentoring with a focus on competencies associated with both EI and IQ has the potential to impact markedly on the enhancement of the professional development of student teachers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Students’ perceived experiences of a flipped classroom at a traditional South African university in comparison to the traditional classroom
- Authors: Cilliers, Liezel
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Teaching -- trends Flipped classrooms
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15881 , vital:40545
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore students’ perceived experiences of flipped classrooms at a traditional South African university in comparison to the traditional classroom. Universities across the world are confronted with a variety of problems. One of these challenges include the massification of higher education as more students now have access to universities resulting in larger class sizes and lower through put rates. Universities have traditionally made use of the face-to-face model of lectures and tutorials as a passive mode of course instruction and delivery. However, due to the massification of higher education, it has become very difficult for lecturers to communicate and collaborate with students. One of the ways that lecturers have attempted to overcome the problem of massification is to make use of technology to increase the delivery of course content. When lectures are made available online while the traditional class time is used to build conceptual understanding and cognitive skills among students, the approach is known as ‘flipping’ the classroom. Several studies have shown that this type of active classroom approach can perform better than traditional lectures when learning outcomes are compared. There is also a very limited body of knowledge available regarding students’ perceived experiences of flipped classrooms at traditional South African universities. The theoretical frameworks guiding this study are the Activity Theory and Constructivism, whilst a pragmatic paradigm was employed. The flipped classroom was used in one course of the Management and Commerce Faculty at a traditional university in South Africa. The study was divided into three cycles: The first cycle involved 4 weeks of traditional lectures, the second cycle of 4 weeks introduced blended learning into the course, while the third cycle of 4 weeks changed the content delivery method to a flipped classroom. At the end of each cycle a formal evaluation through focus groups interviews (with 10 students per cycle) and a questionnaire (that was administered to the class) was conducted to inform the next cycle. Throughout the research process, the researcher also kept detailed field notes to as an account of the planning, execution and reflection for each class. The researcher also observed the behavior of the students during the various research cycles to provide a ‘snapshot’ of the classes. The results of the study suggest that students prefer the use of the flipped classroom is it enables them to communicate with their peers and the lecturer, and providing them with opportunities to better understand learning content through discussions and reasoning, rather than the means of receiving information. Barriers that were identified included difficulty with learning strategies and technical assistance when students needed assistance. However, students were positive about both the use of the flipped classroom as opposed to the use of the traditional classroom.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Cilliers, Liezel
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Teaching -- trends Flipped classrooms
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15881 , vital:40545
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore students’ perceived experiences of flipped classrooms at a traditional South African university in comparison to the traditional classroom. Universities across the world are confronted with a variety of problems. One of these challenges include the massification of higher education as more students now have access to universities resulting in larger class sizes and lower through put rates. Universities have traditionally made use of the face-to-face model of lectures and tutorials as a passive mode of course instruction and delivery. However, due to the massification of higher education, it has become very difficult for lecturers to communicate and collaborate with students. One of the ways that lecturers have attempted to overcome the problem of massification is to make use of technology to increase the delivery of course content. When lectures are made available online while the traditional class time is used to build conceptual understanding and cognitive skills among students, the approach is known as ‘flipping’ the classroom. Several studies have shown that this type of active classroom approach can perform better than traditional lectures when learning outcomes are compared. There is also a very limited body of knowledge available regarding students’ perceived experiences of flipped classrooms at traditional South African universities. The theoretical frameworks guiding this study are the Activity Theory and Constructivism, whilst a pragmatic paradigm was employed. The flipped classroom was used in one course of the Management and Commerce Faculty at a traditional university in South Africa. The study was divided into three cycles: The first cycle involved 4 weeks of traditional lectures, the second cycle of 4 weeks introduced blended learning into the course, while the third cycle of 4 weeks changed the content delivery method to a flipped classroom. At the end of each cycle a formal evaluation through focus groups interviews (with 10 students per cycle) and a questionnaire (that was administered to the class) was conducted to inform the next cycle. Throughout the research process, the researcher also kept detailed field notes to as an account of the planning, execution and reflection for each class. The researcher also observed the behavior of the students during the various research cycles to provide a ‘snapshot’ of the classes. The results of the study suggest that students prefer the use of the flipped classroom is it enables them to communicate with their peers and the lecturer, and providing them with opportunities to better understand learning content through discussions and reasoning, rather than the means of receiving information. Barriers that were identified included difficulty with learning strategies and technical assistance when students needed assistance. However, students were positive about both the use of the flipped classroom as opposed to the use of the traditional classroom.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Study habits and learning styles as correlates of grade 11 students’ academic performance in mathematical literacy in the Amathole Education District
- Authors: Yako, Mzwandile John-Mott
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Academic performance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16687 , vital:40743
- Description: This study investigated whether there was correlation in study habits and learning styles with Mathematical Literacy among the Grade 11 (eleven) high school learners. The Amatole Education District was chosen for this study since it is composed of urban and rural schools. Since Mathematical Literacy was introduced in the system of education in South Africa with the understanding that learners who are finding it a challenge to study Mathematics be complemented with Mathematical Literacy to provide them with skills that are a prerequisite for tertiary level and participation in the economic development. The study purposed to establish whether there was a relationship between academic performance with study habits and learning styles in Mathematical Literacy. The study used the post-positivistic paradigm; the approach was quantitative and the design was descriptive correlational. In sampling probability, cluster sampling was used based on the number of high schools in the Amatole Education District of the Eastern Cape. It was then followed by sub-sampling of learners in Grade 11 (eleven) whose mathematical Literacy skills and performance were being investigated in this study. The theory of Covey on study habits and Kolb’s theory on learning styles were used as a theoretical framework for the study. The data collection instrument used was a closed-ended questionnaire based on a Likert scale measurement. Confidentiality and anonymity were emphasized with informed consent in place. Data was analyzed using SPSS software and Microsoft Excel. The results showed a significant relationship between note taking, writing skills and Mathematical Literacy skills and performance. The findings on the learning styles indicated no significant relationship between socio-demographic factors (visual language, visual numerical, auditory-numerical e.tc.) and academic performance in Mathematical Literacy. This research revealed that study habits had an impact on the academic performance of learners in mathematical literacy. This relationship between academic performance and study habits is an indication that learners needed to improve in their use of English as a second language, especially on note taking, writing skills and Mathematical Literacy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Yako, Mzwandile John-Mott
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Academic performance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16687 , vital:40743
- Description: This study investigated whether there was correlation in study habits and learning styles with Mathematical Literacy among the Grade 11 (eleven) high school learners. The Amatole Education District was chosen for this study since it is composed of urban and rural schools. Since Mathematical Literacy was introduced in the system of education in South Africa with the understanding that learners who are finding it a challenge to study Mathematics be complemented with Mathematical Literacy to provide them with skills that are a prerequisite for tertiary level and participation in the economic development. The study purposed to establish whether there was a relationship between academic performance with study habits and learning styles in Mathematical Literacy. The study used the post-positivistic paradigm; the approach was quantitative and the design was descriptive correlational. In sampling probability, cluster sampling was used based on the number of high schools in the Amatole Education District of the Eastern Cape. It was then followed by sub-sampling of learners in Grade 11 (eleven) whose mathematical Literacy skills and performance were being investigated in this study. The theory of Covey on study habits and Kolb’s theory on learning styles were used as a theoretical framework for the study. The data collection instrument used was a closed-ended questionnaire based on a Likert scale measurement. Confidentiality and anonymity were emphasized with informed consent in place. Data was analyzed using SPSS software and Microsoft Excel. The results showed a significant relationship between note taking, writing skills and Mathematical Literacy skills and performance. The findings on the learning styles indicated no significant relationship between socio-demographic factors (visual language, visual numerical, auditory-numerical e.tc.) and academic performance in Mathematical Literacy. This research revealed that study habits had an impact on the academic performance of learners in mathematical literacy. This relationship between academic performance and study habits is an indication that learners needed to improve in their use of English as a second language, especially on note taking, writing skills and Mathematical Literacy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Teachers and learners’ perspectives towards English as a language of learning and teaching : a case of two selected secondary schools in the Amathole West Education District
- Osunkunle, Atinuke Oluwatoyin
- Authors: Osunkunle, Atinuke Oluwatoyin
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching Second language acquisition
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16243 , vital:40702
- Description: The study aimed at examining teachers and learners’ perspectives towards English as a language of learning and teaching (LoLT), using two selected secondary schools in the Amathole West Education District as a case study and to see if English is indeed a language of choice among learners and teachers. The researcher employed an interpretative qualitative research paradigm and purposive non-probability sampling method was used to draw samples of participants for in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The school principal and two teachers were purposively selected in each of the two schools, making a total of two school principals and four teachers that were interviewed. In addition, a member of the School Governing Body (SGB) was selected in each of the two schools and interviewed. The study also had one focus group discussion with learners in each of the two selected schools, making two focus groups in total. All the one-on-one in-depth interviews as well as the focus group discussions with the learners were recorded and then transcribed. The collected data was later analysed thematically to infer the meaning and present the findings. The findings revealed that most of the students in public schools are torn between two divides as they struggle with the use of English as a language of learning and teaching but seem to have no choice, as they all believed that the use of English is quite beneficial to them in many ways. Another critical finding is that some teachers find it difficult to teach in English because they do not have a good command of the language. This makes them to code-switch regularly using IsiXhosa along with English while they are supposed to teach in English. Thus, this affects the learners proper understanding of and grounding in the English language. The study also found out that the schools lack adequate support to ensure the effective use of English for learning and teaching. The study recommended that various support systems from the government are needed in order to ensure the acceptance and successful use of English as LoLT in South African public schools. In this regard, the participants assured that these would result in positive outcomes, as they would provide quality education through government support. The study concluded that English is the preferred LoLT by both teachers and learners, thus, it needs to be prioritised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Osunkunle, Atinuke Oluwatoyin
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching Second language acquisition
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16243 , vital:40702
- Description: The study aimed at examining teachers and learners’ perspectives towards English as a language of learning and teaching (LoLT), using two selected secondary schools in the Amathole West Education District as a case study and to see if English is indeed a language of choice among learners and teachers. The researcher employed an interpretative qualitative research paradigm and purposive non-probability sampling method was used to draw samples of participants for in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The school principal and two teachers were purposively selected in each of the two schools, making a total of two school principals and four teachers that were interviewed. In addition, a member of the School Governing Body (SGB) was selected in each of the two schools and interviewed. The study also had one focus group discussion with learners in each of the two selected schools, making two focus groups in total. All the one-on-one in-depth interviews as well as the focus group discussions with the learners were recorded and then transcribed. The collected data was later analysed thematically to infer the meaning and present the findings. The findings revealed that most of the students in public schools are torn between two divides as they struggle with the use of English as a language of learning and teaching but seem to have no choice, as they all believed that the use of English is quite beneficial to them in many ways. Another critical finding is that some teachers find it difficult to teach in English because they do not have a good command of the language. This makes them to code-switch regularly using IsiXhosa along with English while they are supposed to teach in English. Thus, this affects the learners proper understanding of and grounding in the English language. The study also found out that the schools lack adequate support to ensure the effective use of English for learning and teaching. The study recommended that various support systems from the government are needed in order to ensure the acceptance and successful use of English as LoLT in South African public schools. In this regard, the participants assured that these would result in positive outcomes, as they would provide quality education through government support. The study concluded that English is the preferred LoLT by both teachers and learners, thus, it needs to be prioritised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Teachers’ views on grade 7 reading comprehension skills amongst English first additional language learners: a case study
- Authors: Ruiters, Benedictor
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Reading comprehension English language -- Study and teaching -- Foreign speakers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16307 , vital:40707
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the views of Teachers about reading comprehension skills in grade 7 English Additional Language classrooms in Buffalo City Metropolitan, Eastern Cape. Objectives are to instil the love for reading and enabling learners to successfully learn to read and attain their full potential. The researcher was interested in exploring broader trends in reading comprehension skills, with the intention of contributing possible strategies to address the literacy level in English First Additional Language. The study was framed as qualitative in inquiry; a face-to-face semi-structured interview was used to collect data. The participants comprised of 24 learners and 4 educators. The theoretical framework utilised was Lev Vygotsky’s (1979) constructivist theory to analyse data using a qualitative analysis approach. Different tools to verify data, which comprised of semi- structured interview of open-ended questions and document analysis to obtain data from English First Additional Language teachers in four primary schools in the Buffalo City Metropolitan District, were used. Findings indicate English First Additional Language learners are not proficient in the language of teaching and learning because in other public schools mother tongue is additive language, while in other schools it does not exist. The recommendation was that the Department of education needs to introduce a reading module for English First Additional teachers who need training in this area of learning. Another recommendation highlighted by teachers is the revisiting of child development theories that will help teachers have a better understanding about the learners and which strategies to utilise during reading.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ruiters, Benedictor
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Reading comprehension English language -- Study and teaching -- Foreign speakers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16307 , vital:40707
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the views of Teachers about reading comprehension skills in grade 7 English Additional Language classrooms in Buffalo City Metropolitan, Eastern Cape. Objectives are to instil the love for reading and enabling learners to successfully learn to read and attain their full potential. The researcher was interested in exploring broader trends in reading comprehension skills, with the intention of contributing possible strategies to address the literacy level in English First Additional Language. The study was framed as qualitative in inquiry; a face-to-face semi-structured interview was used to collect data. The participants comprised of 24 learners and 4 educators. The theoretical framework utilised was Lev Vygotsky’s (1979) constructivist theory to analyse data using a qualitative analysis approach. Different tools to verify data, which comprised of semi- structured interview of open-ended questions and document analysis to obtain data from English First Additional Language teachers in four primary schools in the Buffalo City Metropolitan District, were used. Findings indicate English First Additional Language learners are not proficient in the language of teaching and learning because in other public schools mother tongue is additive language, while in other schools it does not exist. The recommendation was that the Department of education needs to introduce a reading module for English First Additional teachers who need training in this area of learning. Another recommendation highlighted by teachers is the revisiting of child development theories that will help teachers have a better understanding about the learners and which strategies to utilise during reading.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Teachers’use of curriculum materials in Grade 3 Mathematics: A Case Study
- Authors: Whale, Susan Gaye
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Primary) -- South Africa , Education -- curriculum innovation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PHD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45591 , vital:38916
- Description: The study examines four curriculum documents with regards to curriculum facets, further interrogated through indicators for certain facets in order to ascertain whether the documents could be considered to be educative. Comparison is made with selected resources internationally. Observed episodes in four mathematics classes are interrogated with regards to teacher facets and concomitant indicators, to assess whether the tenets proposed in the written curriculum are translated into practice in the classrooms. The four Grade 3 teachers are interviewed about their views on the curriculum, their views on teaching and their views on their own agency in teaching mathematics. The teachers’ complete selected examples from a Mathematics Knowledge for Training (MKT) questionnaire and are engaged in conversations about iii their beliefs about mathematics and their confidence in both doing and teaching mathematics. The study identifies that the current CAPS curriculum documents focus on mathematical content almost exclusively and give minimal guidance concerning pedagogical content knowledge. The agency of teachers is not addressed. The study suggests a three-dimensional model of curriculum design that encompasses new educative curriculum materials; guidance on innovative teacher practices and direction towards new beliefs in teachers which could build agency and confidence. The concern that this study uncovers is that although the school and teachers were specifically chosen to minimise linguistic and social detractors, the intended curriculum does not appear to have been universally translated into
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Whale, Susan Gaye
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Primary) -- South Africa , Education -- curriculum innovation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PHD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45591 , vital:38916
- Description: The study examines four curriculum documents with regards to curriculum facets, further interrogated through indicators for certain facets in order to ascertain whether the documents could be considered to be educative. Comparison is made with selected resources internationally. Observed episodes in four mathematics classes are interrogated with regards to teacher facets and concomitant indicators, to assess whether the tenets proposed in the written curriculum are translated into practice in the classrooms. The four Grade 3 teachers are interviewed about their views on the curriculum, their views on teaching and their views on their own agency in teaching mathematics. The teachers’ complete selected examples from a Mathematics Knowledge for Training (MKT) questionnaire and are engaged in conversations about iii their beliefs about mathematics and their confidence in both doing and teaching mathematics. The study identifies that the current CAPS curriculum documents focus on mathematical content almost exclusively and give minimal guidance concerning pedagogical content knowledge. The agency of teachers is not addressed. The study suggests a three-dimensional model of curriculum design that encompasses new educative curriculum materials; guidance on innovative teacher practices and direction towards new beliefs in teachers which could build agency and confidence. The concern that this study uncovers is that although the school and teachers were specifically chosen to minimise linguistic and social detractors, the intended curriculum does not appear to have been universally translated into
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Teaching NCS (CAPS) FET mathematics: a comparison between an offline techno-blended Model and a traditional approach
- Authors: Munemo, Noname
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) , Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa Blended learning Educational innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41614 , vital:36545
- Description: This research is a comparative research study that compares the way learning has taken place when selected mathematics topics were taught to two groups of Grade 11 Mathematics learners. An offline Techno-Blended Teaching and Learning Model was used for one group, while the other group was taught without the integration of technology. The cognitive and affective impact of the use of technology when an offline Techno-Blended T&L Model was followed, was compared to a corresponding impact of an approach where no technology was integrated during the teaching of the topics. The research study involved teachers and selected learners in the Mathematics classes from four different high schools selected from two urban districts in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. The curriculum topics that the research focused on were Euclidean Geometry and Trigonometry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Munemo, Noname
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) , Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa Blended learning Educational innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41614 , vital:36545
- Description: This research is a comparative research study that compares the way learning has taken place when selected mathematics topics were taught to two groups of Grade 11 Mathematics learners. An offline Techno-Blended Teaching and Learning Model was used for one group, while the other group was taught without the integration of technology. The cognitive and affective impact of the use of technology when an offline Techno-Blended T&L Model was followed, was compared to a corresponding impact of an approach where no technology was integrated during the teaching of the topics. The research study involved teachers and selected learners in the Mathematics classes from four different high schools selected from two urban districts in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. The curriculum topics that the research focused on were Euclidean Geometry and Trigonometry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The art of science: utilising artistic methods to assist in the learning of natural sciences and technology in the intermediate phase
- Authors: Deyzel, Jenilyn
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Science -- Study and teaching (Primary) -- South Africa , Science -- Study and teaching (Elementary) Educational toys
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39502 , vital:35279
- Description: This explorative case-study investigates the educational opportunities associated with an Art-infused pedagogy, according to the perceptions of ten Natural Sciences and Technology (NST) teachers. To examine the possible learning benefits of incorporating artistic activities into the teaching of NST, an Educative Curriculum Material (ECM) was designed that focused on teacher learning and the application of skills in real-life educational practice (Krajcik & Delen, 2017). Results suggest that the ECM, known as the Art-education intervention, facilitated an understanding of the learning potential of an Art-based pedagogy, provided practical ways of applying artistic methods in the classroom and illustrated how Art and NST could be taught together. Thus, the ECM supported the participant’s pedagogical design capacity. As a qualitative and interpretive study, emphasis is placed on the unique perspective of each participant while addressing similarities between cases (Creswell & Poth, 2018). Pre-and post-intervention interviews were conducted, recorded and analysed. Data were gathered systematically through the use of semi-structured interview questions and a questionnaire that required participant involvement through drawing and critical reflection. The case-based themes generated through analysis of data, represent shared ideas raised by the participants themselves. Results suggest that an Art-infused pedagogy can provide children with the opportunity to develop observation and critical thinking capabilities, including the advancement of spatial reasoning skills, problem solving abilities and metacognition. The participants reported an increased level of engagement from the children in their respective classes, where ‘doing’ aided the learning process. Added to this, the use of artistic terminology and open-ended questioning facilitated vocabulary enhancement. Time and resource constraints were identified as potential concerns when implementing an Art-infused pedagogy, as was a teacher’s perception of his/her own artistic abilities. Previous artistic experience had little influence on a teacher’s ability to teach in an integrated manner, suggesting that with effective training, artistic activities could be utilised by any NST teacher to promote learning in NST.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Deyzel, Jenilyn
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Science -- Study and teaching (Primary) -- South Africa , Science -- Study and teaching (Elementary) Educational toys
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39502 , vital:35279
- Description: This explorative case-study investigates the educational opportunities associated with an Art-infused pedagogy, according to the perceptions of ten Natural Sciences and Technology (NST) teachers. To examine the possible learning benefits of incorporating artistic activities into the teaching of NST, an Educative Curriculum Material (ECM) was designed that focused on teacher learning and the application of skills in real-life educational practice (Krajcik & Delen, 2017). Results suggest that the ECM, known as the Art-education intervention, facilitated an understanding of the learning potential of an Art-based pedagogy, provided practical ways of applying artistic methods in the classroom and illustrated how Art and NST could be taught together. Thus, the ECM supported the participant’s pedagogical design capacity. As a qualitative and interpretive study, emphasis is placed on the unique perspective of each participant while addressing similarities between cases (Creswell & Poth, 2018). Pre-and post-intervention interviews were conducted, recorded and analysed. Data were gathered systematically through the use of semi-structured interview questions and a questionnaire that required participant involvement through drawing and critical reflection. The case-based themes generated through analysis of data, represent shared ideas raised by the participants themselves. Results suggest that an Art-infused pedagogy can provide children with the opportunity to develop observation and critical thinking capabilities, including the advancement of spatial reasoning skills, problem solving abilities and metacognition. The participants reported an increased level of engagement from the children in their respective classes, where ‘doing’ aided the learning process. Added to this, the use of artistic terminology and open-ended questioning facilitated vocabulary enhancement. Time and resource constraints were identified as potential concerns when implementing an Art-infused pedagogy, as was a teacher’s perception of his/her own artistic abilities. Previous artistic experience had little influence on a teacher’s ability to teach in an integrated manner, suggesting that with effective training, artistic activities could be utilised by any NST teacher to promote learning in NST.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019