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1

Kandumba, Marina. "Exploring education policy transformation in Namibia in terms of democratic change." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/50349.

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Thesis (MEd) -- Stellenbosch University, 2005.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: One of the major features of educational transformation in Namibia revolves around the democratisation of education. However, despite various endeavours by the government to transform the education system in an effort to provide quality education, there remain many challenges to the delivery of urgently needed quality education. This thesis seeks to explore how democratic education can possibly contribute towards eliminating identified challenges. My contention is that the promulgation of the education policy document "Toward Education for All" of 1993 was meant to bring about changes in the Namibian education system. However, the promulgation of this policy does not imply the effective implementation thereof.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Een van die belangrikste kenmerke van onderwystransformasie in Namibie is die demokratisering van die onderwys. Ten spyte van verskeie pogings deur die regering om die onderwysstelsel te transformeer in 'n poging om gehalteonderwys te verseker, is daar steeds baie uitdagings met betrekking tot die lewering van dringend nodige gehalteonderwys. Hierdie tesis ondersoek hoe demokratiese onderwys moontlik daartoe kan bydra om die uitdagings soos gerdentifiseer die hoof te bied. Die skrywer is daarvan oortuig dat daar met die bekendmaking van die onderwysbeleidsdokument, Toward Education for All (1993), bedoel word om veranderinge in die Namibiese onderwysstelsel teweeg te bring. Die openbaarmaking van hierdie beleid impliseer egter nie die effektiewe implementering daarvan nie.
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2

Shifidi, Set-Son Kondjashili. "Evaluation of corporate governance in state-owned enterprises in Namibia." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/96198.

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Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2014.
Corporate Governance in Namibia is such a serious challenge, especially in the public sector. The public sector consists of government entities including state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Namibian SOEs are prevalent in the important infrastructural sectors of energy, water, transport, telecommunication, finance, etc., and their performance is of great importance to the entire population, local businesses as well as to foreign investors. The fundamental aim of this study was to evaluate the level of corporate governance in the Namibian SOEs using the adopted Evaluation Matrix that was developed by the Centre for Corporate Governance in Africa of the University of Stellenbosch Business School. This matrix was developed based on King II and King III principles of good corporate governance. Namibian SOEs are governed by the State-owned Enterprises Governance Council (SOEGC), which prescribes the King Code of Governance of South Africa (King Code) as the guidance of governance to Namibian SOEs. The research study employed the data collection method of using secondary data from the companies’ public documents, in this case the annual reports. According to King III, the annual report or integrated report as it is now ideally called is supposed to contain all the company’s governance issues that promote sustainability, accountability and disclosure within the company. Companies that did not disclose information scored poorly in disclosure and transparency. From this research, it has been observed that Namibian SOEs need to improve on disclosure. There are, however, a few companies, such as Namibia Ports Authority (Namport) that are doing relatively well and are close to having an annual report which is almost an integrated report. The study’s focus was also on boards’ sustainability aspects of good corporate governance. These aspects are: racial and gender diversity of boards, attendance at board meetings, and the presence of relevant board committees. On this subject, it was observed that Namibia’s SOEs are relatively on par with both South Africa’s SOEs and private sector, when compared to results of similar research studies in that country. The success of this research also proved that this Evaluation Matrix as developed can be adopted for use on corporate governance in Namibian companies.
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3

Semba, Pecka. "Education decentralization in the Omaheke Region of Namibia." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006114.

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Before the attainment of independence on 21 March 1990, the people of Namibia were engaged in a protracted struggle against colonialism, racism and apartheid, all of which had denied the majority of the people democracy and development. The people of Namibia therefore did not have power to make decisions on matters that affect their lives and were also not able to determine their own destiny (Ministry of Regional Government and Housing [MoRGH]: 1998:1). After independence, the Namibian government provided for a policy of decentralization under Chapter 12 of the Constitution. After adopting decentralization as state policy in 1996 the government, under the auspices of the Ministry of Regional, Local Government and Housing, embarked upon an implementation process that began in 2003. Education decentralization was included in this process. As my research investigated participants' experience of education decentralization in the Omaheke Region, I conducted an interpretive case study. I employed semi-structured interviews as my main data collection instrument. The quality of my research lies mostly in the authenticity of my thick descriptions where I rely to a large degree on a high ratio of participant to researcher voice. The study has revealed that there is a basic understanding of what education decentralization refers to. Education decentralization is also perceived to provide for the democratization of education through the active participation of all relevant stakeholders - parents, teachers, learners and civil servants - in the education process. However, although there is a basic understanding of what education decentralization entails, there is not necessarily acceptance. The study revealed that many people in Omaheke have reservations about the process of decentralizing education services. Some regard education decentralization as central government "dumping" its responsibility on the Regions. Furthermore, neither the Regional Council, the Regional Education Office, schools, communities nor parents have the capacity to cope with decentralization. The responsibility for overseeing the implementation of decentralization in the Region lies with the Omaheke Regional Council. Education as a decentralized function ought to resort directly under the Regional Council. However, the Regional Education office does not yet operate under the Regional Council. Instead the Education Director continues to report directly to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education in the capital. In this way an important decentralization structure, the Regional Council, is bypassed and rendered toothless. The data reveal that there is only partial evidence of psychological and structural readiness for education decentralization. Consequently there is little meaningful participation and therefore no sense of ownership among parents, teachers, learners, community-based organizations and political leaders.
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Kamwi, Kamwi Kenneth. "Teacher responses to the Namibian education reform : a case study of two Caprivi schools." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003676.

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Effective implementation of education reforms consists of alterations in curriculum materials, instructional practices and behaviour, beliefs and understandings on the part of the teachers involved in the reform (Fullan and Hargreaves, 1993: 5). A process of implementation is therefore, a learning process, learning how to do something new (ibid.). This study was done to establish how Biology teachers in Caprivi have responded to the reform process ten years down the line. I used a qualitative case study of two secondary schools. Four Biology teachers, two school principals and two groups of learners participated in the study. Data was collected by means of interviews, lesson observations, a workshop, and school inventories. The data was analysed within an interpretive framework. The results of the study show a move into 'activity-based teaching'. It shows a shift from the traditional transmission teaching approach. In general teachers seem to equate 'activity-based teaching' with the learner-centred approach.
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5

Iitula, Helena. "Master of Education research portfolio." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008196.

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This Portfolio was submitted in 2005 to Rhodes University as a Research Portfolio presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Education in General Education Theory and Practice. The Portfolio consists of seven (7) key parts. The reader of this Portfolio is courteously informed that the structure of this portfolio is to some extent differ from the thesis structure. Thus, the reader should be attentive not to weigh against the two. Further more, I hereby declare that this portfolio is my own work and that all the sources that I have used or quoted have been indicated and acknowledged by means of references indicated at the end of each part. Part 2 and 6 are the core parts of the portfolio. The focal point of part 2 is the contextual curriculum analysis of Grade 8-10 Oshindonga Curriculum in order to investigate its implementation in four educational circuits: Oshigambo, Onathinge, Onyaanya and Omuthiya in Oshikoto Region. Based on the findings of this analysis, lack of critical inquiry and reflective practice among Oshindonga teachers was identified as one of the major obstacles that preventing the effective implementation of the curriculum. Most of these teachers are Basic Education Teacher Diploma (BETD) postgraduates. Thus, part 3 and 4 were developed as supplements to inform the main research paper (part 6) which is related to teacher's professionalism in the classroom. The focus of part 3 (literature review) was on the teacher as a reflective practitioner. This is in line with the Namibian Education Policy, which identifies reflective practice as the heart of teacher professionalism. In this part, I explored a variety of views related to the notion of professionalism in teaching. I have also focused on views related to teacher's professional development both on macro and micro levels. These views provided a clarification and an underpinning framework on which to base my analysis of reflective practice as professionalism in education. Part 4 (education theories) focused on the digging of understanding of knowledge as an important theoretical domain of behaviourist and constructivist theories. I have tried to establish how the two theories (Behaviourist and Constructivist) view knowledge and its acquisition and to gain an understanding of how the two theories have been informing the practice. Subsequently, part 6 meant to investigate and assess the extent to which Basic Education Teacher Diploma postgraduate teachers are autonomously applying the theory of critical inquiry and reflective practice in the classroom. Both part 2 and 6 have findings. There is much correlation between the issues and problems in the implementation of the curriculum as identified in part 2 and the findings of the main research paper (part 6). Though critical inquiry and reflective practice is the key journey towards a high level of reflectivity and one of the significant characters of teacher professionalism in the classroom, most issues and problems identified were related to the insufficient practice of critical inquiry and reflective practices. Low correlation was found between critical inquiry and reflective practice theory and teachers' practices in the classroom. Despite to the fact that various rationales were mentioned as to why critical inquiry and reflective practice successful implementation is not taking place, the study positioned an emphasis on team working at school, cluster and circuit base that could contributed to a great extend to making teachers more competent and supporting themselves in mastering the applicable critical inquiry and reflective practice skills.
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Katoma, Loini-Nyanyukweni. "The implementation of environmental education policy in Namibia: perceptions of a range of decision-makers." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003445.

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This study is the first cycle of an action research project that focuses on the implementation of the Environmental Education Policy in Namibia. Perceptions of Namibian decision-makers were sought with regard to their understanding of the concepts ‘environment’ and ‘environmental education’, as well as to identify environmental problems and obstacles to the implementation of the Environmental Education Policy. The approach of coming up with options to address the identified problems/obstacles/constraints, was employed in this study. To this effect, interviews, a workshop, observations and reflections on the process of implementation resulted in a wealth of data. The findings shed light on possible solutions to address the identified problems and obstacles. The results revealed that community participation, skills development and the proper co-ordination of environmental education activities are imperative in addressing the obvious policy-practice gap. Decision-makers uncovered the fact that the socio-economic situation of our people necessitated pulling our resources together and working as a team. The overall perceptions are that the environment is everyone’s business and that we should zealously use it and carefully guard it, not only for ourselves but also, for the benefit of coming generations.
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7

Haingura, Paulinus. "Research portfolio." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003615.

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The purpose of this research is to evaluate the implementation of the Namibian education policy with particular reference to Senior Secondary education (Grades 11-12) in order to develop analysing skills that will facilitate better understanding of my professional context and enhance my ability to operate within a research environment. The main purpose is to look at the theory that underpins the curriculum and to find out whether that theory is carried through into practice. This contextual analysis is also designed to provide baseline data as I subsequently explore my area of research. The specific objectives of the research are to: • conduct interviews with teachers and learners which may reveal ideological differences on how these various actors perceive the curriculum; • analyse specific areas within the curriculum that might reveal the type of theory underpinning the curriculum; • assess the curriculum in order to identify objectives and goals that may affect the implementation of the intended curriculum.
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8

Haingura, Felicity Kunyima. "Traditional and colonial education : the experience of the people living in the Kavango region of Namibia (1900-1966)." Thesis, University of Cape Town, 1993. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/26217.

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9

Johannes, Thomas Kamusheefa. "An investigation of principals' perceptions and experiences of the implementation of the national standards and performance indicators (NSPI) for Namibian schools in the Ohangwena region." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003522.

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The post independence Namibian education system has been characterised by many reform initiatives, aimed at eradicating inequity, poor performance, and inferior education provision inherited from a pre-independence education system. This legacy posed a serious challenge to Namibia when it set out to achieve a national goal, Vision 2030. Vision 2030 inspires Namibia to be among the eveloped countries in 2030. In an attempt to achieve the goals outlined by the mission statement of Vision 2030, the Ministry of Education (MoE) introduced two national education initiatives: the Education and Training Sector Improvement Program (ETSIP), and the National Standards and Performance Indicators (NSPIs). These would be implemented in Namibian schools as, respectively, the Ministry’s strategic plan and its policy document. The NSPIs were introduced to address the fragmentation of standards and inequity in regions and schools in Namibia, as they aimed to standardise the provision of equal, quality education across the country (Namibia. MoE, 2005a, p. 1). The NSPI policy calls for schools to take quality assurance seriously, with particular emphasis on School Self-Evaluation (SSE), a process that encourages self-management (Namibia. MoE, 2007a, p. 3). Thus, the standards set out by the NSPIs became the yardstick by which internal and external school evaluators could assess whole school performance. The purpose of this present study was to investigate the perceptions and experiences of principals in the Ohangwena Region following the implementation of the NSPIs. It is a case study involving two Inspectors of Education (IoEs), twelve principals, and four Heads of Department (HODs). Interviews, document analysis, questionnaires, and a focus group interview were used to collect the data. The study found that principals acknowledge the importance of the NSPIs, and believe that they would succeed in improving the provision of quality education if they were fully implemented. The study found that schools implemented Performance Indicators 5.3 (School Administration) Aspect 5.3.2 (Storage and retrieval of information) in Key Area 5. However, the results of the study also showed that principals experienced many challenges in the implementation of the NSPIs. These included a lack of understanding among principals and teachers of the NSPIs, a lack of understanding of contemporary leadership theories (that would otherwise help principals to implement change effectively), and a lack of support in terms of skills and resources from both the Regional Office in Ohangwena and the MoE itself. The study found that the NSPIs have not yet improved school performance, and consequently that the pass rate remains the same as before the introduction of the NSPIs, four years ago. The SSE, which aims to help schools identify their strengths and weaknesses, and encourages them to establish and make use of a School Development Plan (SDP) to address weaknesses and sustain strengths, is characterised by a high degree of dishonesty. Thus, the information furnished by SSEs, SDPs, and Teachers Self-Evaluations (TSEs) is unreliable, lacks credibility, and has the further ill-effect of skewing schools’ performance targets. Therefore, this problem could be addressed when the rationale of completing the SSE is clearly explained to principals and teachers.
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Neshila, Selma. "Action research on an organization development intervention in a secondary school in the Erongo education region of Namibia." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003299.

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Organisations that will not, that resist, that cannot, that are incapable, that lack the confidence or that believe it’s not possible to change are likely to stagnate and die (Smith: work in progress). Since independence in March 1990, the new Namibian Government has realized that the quality, efficiency and effectiveness of Namibian schools depends on the ability of teachers and other stakeholders to be innovators and facilitators of change, especially through effective communication, effective meetings, working through conflict, solving problems and making decisions. Organization Development (OD) is an effective, planned change approach for improving organization workgroup processes. Resting on a foundation of values and assumptions about people and organizations, OD promotes collaboration, interdependence and interconnectedness, empowerment, participation and involvement in problem solving and decision-making for all members. Based primarily on a normative, re-educative strategy and secondarily on a rational-empirical strategy, OD assumes that people will change if and when they realize that change is advantageous to them. OD makes use of interventions to determine areas requiring change. The intervention used for my research included a survey-data-feedback (SDF) where data was gathered, analyzed and fed back to the participants. The data was used as a basis for problem solving and training in organizational processes of communication. The case study involved 23 teachers. Journal entries, observation, formal and non-formal interviews as well as focus interviews were used as data collection tools. Participants wanted to see immediate organizational changes thus it was important to remind them that OD is a long-term change approach and that there is no quick fix. Initially, participants were used to the norm of fault finding to determine areas requiring change. However, a year later, during problem solving sessions, I observed collaborative and positive involvement by all participants. Finally, the outcome of the intervention based on the data from the communication workshop and the problem-solving meetings revealed that participants want OD to be institutionalized in all Namibian schools.
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11

Shingenge, Hans Silvanus. "Evaluation of the In-Service Basic Education Teacher Diploma Programme in Namibia." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/20941.

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Thesis (MPA)--University of Stellenbosch, 2005.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The In-Service Basic Education Teacher Diploma Programme (BETD Inset Programme) is a Namibian educational programme under the Ministry of Basic Education, Sport and Culture. It is a unified general preparation for unqualified and partly qualified teachers in Basic Education, with opportunities for specialisation in both phases of schooling and in subject areas. It seeks to strike a balance between professional insight, skills and subject knowledge. A process of evaluation was implemented to assess the programme management and the programme workers’ knowledge, skills and expertise, including their choice of methodology for implementing the BETD Inset Programme. The aim of the programme evaluation was to determine the effectiveness and sustainability of the BETD Inset Programme. The problem statement of this study takes as its point of departure the prevalence of development programmes that are not implemented in an effective and sustainable manner, particularly in Third World countries. Many researchers and scholars have identified programme management as crucial to the effective implementation of development programmes. It is in response to this argument that this researcher decided to conduct a study on the National Institution for Educational Development (NIED)’s implementation of the BETD Inset Programme. The objective was to establish whether the existing programme management strategy implements the BETD Inset Programme effectively, and to explore the possibilities of recommending supporting strategy. This study also referred to the issue of gender balance in the appointment of BETD Inset Programme management staff. Qualitative methodology was used to obtain information from the BETD Inset Unit and Regional Education Offices, who play an important role in the implementation process of the BETD Inset Programme. The senior managers were interviewed and they provided information about the BETD Inset Unit management structures and the objectives achieved during the BETD Inset Programme implementation process. The implementation process plans set by the NIED were based on terms of reference provided by the Ministry of Basic Education, Sport and Culture to determine their effectiveness in achieving the set objectives. The literature review of this study reflects the conceptual categories identified from an overview of programme management objectives in development programmes and distance education programmes. These conceptual categories are based on management models that are useful for programme management evaluation. The conceptual categories point out characteristics fundamental to the effective implementation of the BETD Inset Programme. These characteristics were used to formulate measuring criteria, and they formed the basis for the analysis of the study’s results in chapter 5. BETD Inset Programme is defined as a distance education programme. It was deduced that the BETD Inset Programme faced a number of challenges, and that consequently the NIED management had to implement the programme with a limited infrastructure and work force. All these challenges are linked to one major factor, which is the lack of sufficient resources required for the effective implementation of the BETD Inset Programme in a sustainable manner. This study recommends that a strategy for potential stakeholder participation should be redesigned and effectively implemented, in order to secure sufficient resources to support the programme in a sustainable manner.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die Indiensprogram vir ’n Basiese-Onderrig-Onderwysdiploma (BOOD-Insetprogram) is ’n Namibiese onderwysprogram onder leiding van die Ministerie van Basiese Onderrig, Sport en Kultuur. Dit is ’n samevattende algemene voorbereiding vir ongekwalifiseerde en deels-gekwalifiseerde onderwysers in Basiese Onderrig, met geleenthede vir spesialisering beide in skolingsfases en vakgebiede. As algemene doelstelling streef dit na ’n balans tussen professionele insig, vaardighede en vakkennis. Program-evaluering is gedoen ten einde die programbestuur en -werkers te beoordeel volgens hulle kennis, vaardighede en kundigheid, insluitend hulle keuse van metodiek vir die implementering van die BOOD-Insetprogram. Die mikpunt was om die effektiwiteit en volhoubaarheid van die BOOD-Insetprogram te bepaal. Die probleemstelling van die studie is daarop gebaseer dat ontwikkelingsprogramme, spesifiek in Derdewêreldlande, nie effektief en op ’n volhoubare manier geïmplementeer word nie. Navorsers en studente het die bestuur van ontwikkelingsprogramme as die sleutel tot die effektiewe implementering daarvan geïdentifiseer. Dit het daartoe gelei dat die navorser ’n studie onderneem het oor hoe die Nasionale Instelling vir Opvoedkundige Ontwikkeling die Indiensprogram vir ’n Basiese-Onderrig-Onderwysdiploma implementeer. Die doelwit was om vas te stel of die bestaande strategie vir programbestuur die Indiensprogram vir ’n Basiese-Onderrig-Onderwysdiploma effektief implementeer, en ook om ’n moontlike ondersteuningstrategie voor te stel. Die studie het ook die kwessie van geslagsbalans aangeraak ten opsigte van poste wat beklee word deur bestuurspersoneel wat die Indiensprogram vir ’n Basiese-Onderrig-Onderwysdiploma implementeer. ’n Kwalitatiewe metode is gebruik om inligting te verkry vanaf BOOD-Implementeringseenhede en Onderwysstreekkantore wat ’n sleutelrol vervul in die implementeringsproses van die BOOD-Aanvangsprogram. Onderhoude is gevoer met lede van die topbestuur wat ook inligting verskaf het oor die BOOD-Inseteenheid se bestuurstrukture, en doelwitte wat in die implementeringsproses van die BOOD-Insetprogram bereik is. Implementeringsplanne, daargestel deur die Nasionale Instelling vir Opvoedkundige Ontwikkeling aan die hand van riglyne van die Ministerie van Basiese Onderrig, Sport en Kultuur, word gebruik om vas te stel hoe effektief hulle hulle doelwitte bereik. ’n Literatuur-oorsig vir hierdie studie weerspieël die konseptuele kategorieë wat geïdentifiseer kan word uit die gesamentlike bestuursdoelwitte van ontwikkelingsprogramme en afstandsonderrigprogramme. Hierdie konseptuele kategorieë is gebaseer op bestuursmodelle wat ook aangewend kan word vir die evaluering van programbestuur. Die konseptuele kategorieë identifiseer fundamentele kenmerke vir die effektiewe implementering van die Indiensprogram vir ’n Basiese-Onderrig-Onderwysdiploma. Hierdie kenmerke is gebruik om evalueringskriteria te formuleer asook die basis daar te stel vir die ontleding van die studie se resultate in hoofstuk 5. Die Indiensprogram vir ’n Basiese-Onderrig-Onderwysdiploma word getipeer as ’n afstandsonderrigprogram. Die gevolgtrekking word gemaak dat die Indiensprogram vir ’n Basiese-Onderrig-Onderwysdiploma uitdagings in die gesig staar wat die bestuur van die Nasionale Instelling vir Opvoedkundige Ontwikkeling noop om die program met beperkte infrastruktuur en menslike hulpbronne te implementeer. Al hierdie uitdagings hou verband met een hooffaktor, naamlik die gebrek aan voldoende hulpbronne vir die effektiewe en volhoubare implementering van die Indiensprogram vir ’n Basiese-Onderrig-Onderwysdiploma. Die studie stel voor dat ’n strategie herontwerp en effektief geïmplementeer word vir deelname deur potensiële belanghebbendes ten einde voldoende hulpbronne te verseker om die program op ’n volhoubare wyse te ondersteun.
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Niitembu, Martha M. "Stakeholders' perceptions of parents' involvement in the governance of a Namibian rural school." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003655.

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The issue of decentralisation has been one of the top priorities of the Namibian education system since independence in 1990. One of the decentralisation aims was to enhance parental involvement in education by establishing School Boards. However, School Boards and the role of parents in school management have been considered ineffective for several years which led to the promulgation of Education Act 16 of 2001 in which the roles of School Boards are strengthened and clarified. This study sought to investigate School Board members’ perceptions, understanding and experiences of parents’ involvement in school governance more specifically after the implementation of the Education Act of 2001 in 2003. This study is an interpretive case study of one combined rural school in the Ohangwena educational region of Namibia. This research employed three data collection techniques, namely semi-structured interviews, observation and document analysis. The main findings of this study reveal that there is a lack of joint understanding and shared vision between educators and parents in the School Board. This problem underpins other more symptomatic problems, such as lack of accountability in the matter of school finances, differences in understanding the roles of School Board members and lack of parents’ motivation from the school management. The study further reveals the ineffectiveness and insufficiency of the training provided in the past. It highlights some of the challenges that hinder the effective involvement of parents in rural school governance, such as poor educational background among parents, poor knowledge of the English language and poor understanding of educational issues. However the findings also acknowledge parents’ participation and their full involvement in decision-making. The findings show that the new School Board elected in terms of the Education Act of 2001 has been more effective than previous School Boards and has reached a number of achievements such as being instrumental in solving disciplinary problems, purchasing school assets and renovating classrooms. Recommendations for practice and for further research are made.
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Khama, Bollen Simataa. "An evaluation of the recruitment and selection of educators: the case of Zambezi Region Education Directorate, Namibia." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17967.

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This study evaluated the recruitment and selection of educators in the Zambezi Education Directorate of Namibia. Its objectives were: (1) to investigate ways and means of facilitating the implementation of the Public Service Act (Act no. 13 of 1995) with regard to the recruitment and selection of educators in the Zambezi Education District of Namibia; (2) to assess the role played by environmental and contextual factors in the performance of officials responsible for recruitment and selection of educators in the Zambezi Education District of Namibia; and (3) to find out if there was a relationship between the high turnover of educators and the processes of recruitment and selection of educators during the period of the investigation. A qualitative research methodology was used to conduct the study. A sample of 21 participants was selected for the study. It was comprised of six officials from the division human resources management - responsible for receiving information about teachers needed in schools from the circuit offices and advertising vacant posts; six officials from division of professional services - responsible for ensuring that educators who are recruited possess the prescribed teaching qualifications and competences; two officials in management cadre - responsible for administrative and financial decisions on recruitment and selection of educators and ensuring that posts have been budgeted for before they are filled. Seven participants who were former employees of the Zambezi Education Directorate also formed part of the sample. The researcher used interviews to gather data from participants. He also consulted relevant official documents such as the Public Servant Staff Rules (PSSR), circulars and policies issued by the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) the Public Service Act, (Act No. 13 of 1995) and the Education Act, (Act No. 11of 2000). The study found, among others, that some participants who were involved in the recruitment and selection processes were not aware of the relevant Recruitment and Selection Policy. The environment and the context in which the recruitment and selection policy was implemented created loopholes for inefficiency and ineffectiveness. Furthermore, the study found that there was a relationship between the turnover of educators and the processes of recruitment and selection of educators. Hence the study recommends various ways and means of improving the recruitment and selection process in the Zambezi Education Directorate.
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Maemeko, Eugene Litaba. "Teachers perceptions of the relevance of performance indicators for school improvement and development in Namibia." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/95779.

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Thesis (MEd)--Stellenbosch University, 2014.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to investigate teachers‟ perception(s) of the relevance of performance indicators for school improvement and development in Namibia. The study employed a case study involving two school principals, two heads of department (HODs) and five teachers. Interviews were used to collect the data. The study found that almost all teachers acknowledge the importance of the PIs and believe that they succeed in improving the provision of quality education if they are properly implemented. The study also found that both school principals experience many challenges with the implementation of these PIs. The analysis was framed by interpretive theory as the study is exploratory. Performance indicators (PIs) have become the yardstick by which internal and external school evaluators can assess whole school performance. The focus of this case study was on Grade 10 school performance in the Katima Mulilo rural circuit and an urban secondary school in the Caprivi education region of Namibia. Grade 10 is one of the school levels in which low academic performance has been found to be common in the Caprivi region. The study included a literature review of studies on performance indicators in different parts of the world.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMING: No Afrikaans abstract available
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Shekupakela-Nelulu, Rauna. "An investigation into the role of student participation in school governance : a Namibian perspective." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007449.

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The issue of student participation in school governance is not a new concept in Namibian schools. Student involvement dates back to the 1970's when the country's administration was under the South African apartheid regime. Back then the involvement of students in school affairs was seen by the regime as a political act and attempts by student leaders to involve themselves in educational issues were often quashed. When the country became independent student representation continued as Student Representative Councils (SRC's), later renamed Learners Representative Councils (LRCs). This study attempted to investigate the perceptions of LRCs and other stakeholders - narnely the school principals and the school board members - of the role of students in school governance. The study was conducted in three Senior Secondary Schools in the Kavango region in Namibia. The research respondents were school principals, chairpersons of the LRCs and one chairperson of a school board. The study was conducted in the interpretive paradigm employing the following three qualitative research methods interviews, observation and document analysis to collect data. Through triangulation it was possible to formulate a rich response to the research question. The study found that, although the notion of student participation in school governance was widely accepted, a number of challenges exist that hamper the effectiveness of LRCs in the schools. It was revealed that there was no national policy docunlent that outlined the roles and function of the LRCs. As a result schools had little direction about the LRCs and subsequently they were given little or no attention by the school authorities. This resulted in misunderstandings and in some cases conflict between learners and the school management. The most significant consequence of these problems was the fact that LRCs were not regarded as true role players in school governance. The study thus recommends that a national policy document that legitimates the role of students in school governance be drafted to provide direction and that schools embark on meaningful training programmes for LRC members. The study also calls for further research to address the gap in literature on this phenomenon, particularly in Namibia.
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Titus, David Petrus. "The implementation of multigrade teaching in rural schools in the Keetmanshoop education region : leadership and management challenges /." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2004. http://eprints.ru.ac.za/40/.

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Ipangelwa, Anna. "The impact of US Peace Corps volunteers on the management and leadership of a school in Namibia: a case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2003. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003443.

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Peace Corps Volunteer teachers have played a significant role in Namibia’s attempts to restructure education in line with its policy of education for all. While we have learned a great deal in recent years about how Peace Corps Volunteer Teachers have achieved their stated goals and objectives of teaching students and training serving teachers, we still know relatively little about the role they may have played in school management. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of Peace Corps volunteers work on the management and leadership of the schools they serve. The study focuses on the work of two volunteers based in a combined school in the Ondangwa West educational region of Namibia. The study adopts a qualitative approach and seeks to establish whether there has been an impact by Peace Corps volunteer’s work on the management and leadership of this school by focusing on (a) activities performed by Peace Corps volunteers; (b) the experiences of both management and staff in working with Peace Corps volunteers; (c) whether the presence of Peace Corps volunteers that served at the school influence the management and leadership of the school; (d) how the duties and activities performed by these volunteers were perceived by the students, teachers and community. The interview questions that were used to collect data from seven respondents were based on the literature from Peace Corps and the Ministry of Basic Education, Culture and Sport as well as education management and leadership literature. The findings indicate that volunteers that served at this school performed management and leadership related activities with the students, teachers and community and that these activities are having an effect on the management and leadership of the school.
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Boois, Yvonne. "Research portfolio." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006152.

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Iileka, Ottilie. "An investigation of teacher educators' perceptions and implementation of formative assessment at a college of education in Namibia : a case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003527.

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Changes in assessment practice in education are a global issue. Colleges of Education in Namibia also need to accommodate these changes in their training programs for student teachers, to model their practice of all modes of assessment in teaching and learning. Emphasis should be placed on assessment for learning, which is formative in nature. This qualitative case study investigated the following questions: How do teacher educators understand the principles and strategies of formative assessment and how do teacher educators implement formative assessment in their own teaching, which in turn serves as an example to their student teachers. I used three methods of collecting data: interviews, observation and document analysis. The data identify a range of findings in the teacher educators' professed understanding of formative assessment and how it is implemented in their own practice. The data also identify challenges facing the teacher educators in terms of setting a good example to their student teachers in the area of formative assessment. This study also offers suggestions for further studies on formative assessment. These include a suggestion for teacher educators to look at their own practice of formative assessment principles and strategies. A major cross department study could be conducted that includes teacher educators from different subject areas to see to how the implementation of formative assessment in the college varies from one department to another. A third possibility suggests a study involving student teachers from various areas of specialization in the college to see to what extent the implementation of formative assessment in the college affects their future assessment practices.
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Salom, Nespect Butty. "An implementation evaluation study of the "My future is my choice" HIV and AIDS education programme in the Directorate of Education, Oshana Region, Northern Namibia." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/18018.

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Thesis (MPA)--Stellenbosch University, 2011.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: “My Future is My Choice” (MFMC) is an extra-curricular life skills programme in Na-mibia aimed at minimising the impact of HIV and AIDS among young people. The pro-gramme was introduced fourteen years ago and is believed to have had a significant im-pact on young people who were enrolled in and graduated from it. The programme tar-gets young people from grades 8 to 12. The purpose of this study was to assess how the “My Future is My Choice” Programme imparts knowledge and skills to young people in the Ompundja Circuit of the Oshana Directorate of Education, in Northern Namibia. This was an implementation evaluation study, following a qualitative approach to collect in-depth information. Data was collect-ed by two means: focus group interviews with an interview guide as an instrument, and analysis of documents. Purposeful sampling was used to select twenty young people from the population of young people who graduated from the programme. Young people from three secondary schools and one combined school were interviewed. The outcome of the study indicated that young people who graduated from the pro-gramme were better equipped with knowledge and skills that enable them to protect themselves from HIV infection. The study also indicated that the strategies used to im-plement the programme are crucial to the successful transfer of information to young people enrolled in the programme. However, some challenges which need immediate attention for improvement concern the number of participants, the content, a review of topics and the time allocated to the implementation of the programme. It is therefore recommended that recipients be consulted for input on what their needs are with regard to HIV and AIDS prevention. As the programme began fourteen years ago, its strategies now require updating and revision of the programme has become necessary. The revision of the programme will enable its facilitators to incorporate new ideas and methods of HIV prevention gained from over a decade of experience. It would also allow for the identification of young people’s needs and incorporate relevant topics that are not currently covered in the manual. Hence, collaboration between facilitators, learners, teachers, parents, communities and programme designers is a key element in ensuring the continued success of the “My Future is My Choice” Programme.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: “My Future is My Choice” (MFMC) is ʼn bykomende lewensvaardigheidsprogram in Namibië wat die impak van MIV en VIGs onder jongmense wil verminder. Die program is 14 jaar gelede ingestel en het na bewering ʼn beduidende uitwerking gehad op jongmense wat daarvoor ingeskryf het en dit voltooi het. Die program is afgestem op jongmense in graad 8 tot 12. Die doel van die studie was om te bepaal in watter mate die MFMC-program die jongmense in die Ompundja-distrik in die Onderwysdirektoraat van Oshana in Noord-Namibië met kennis en vaardighede toerus. Die studie het ʼn implementeringsevaluering behels, en het diepte-inligting met behulp van ʼn kwalitatiewe benadering ingesamel. Data is met behulp van fokusgroeponderhoude aan die hand van ʼn onderhoudsgids sowel as deur middel van dokumentontleding bekom. Twintig jongmense uit die groep wat die program suksesvol voltooi het, is met behulp van doelgerigte steekproewe gekies en onderhoude is met jeugdiges van drie hoërskole en een gekombineerde skool gevoer. Die uitkoms van die studie dui daarop dat jongmense wat die program voltooi het oor beter kennis en vaardighede beskik waarmee hulle hulle teen MIV-besmetting kan beskerm. Die studie het ook getoon dat die strategieë wat gebruik word om die program in werking te stel deurslaggewend is vir die suksesvolle oordrag van inligting aan diegene wat vir die program ingeskryf is. Tog is daar bepaalde uitdagings wat onmiddellike aandag verg, soos die aantal deelnemers, die inhoud, die onderwerpe, en die tyd wat vir die inwerkingstelling van die program beskikbaar gestel word. Daarom word aanbeveel dat, ten einde die MFMC-program te verbeter, diegene wat die program volg oor hulle behoeftes met betrekking tot MIV/vigs-voorkoming geraadpleeg word. Nou, 14 jaar nadat die program die eerste keer in werking gestel is, is dit duidelik dat die strategieë wat gebruik word verouderd is en dat die program dringend hersien moet word. Sodanige hersiening sal die programaanbieders in staat stel om nuwe idees en metodes vir MIV-voorkoming wat nie 14 jaar gelede bekend was nie, by die program in te sluit. Dit sal ook ʼn geleentheid bied om jongmense se werklike behoeftes te bepaal en ander onderwerpe aan te roer wat nie tans in die handleiding verskyn nie dog tersaaklik is. Daarom is samewerking tussen fasiliteerders, leerders, onderwysers, ouers, gemeenskappe en programsamestellers ʼn sleutelelement om die voortgesette sukses van die MFMC-program te verseker.
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Sanzila, Keith Mumba. "Environmental factors influencing learner absenteeism in six schools in the Kavango Region, Namibia." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003398.

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This study on learner absenteeism takes place in the Namibian context with a focus on the Kavango region, located in Northern Namibia, where absenteeism has been identified as a problem. The intention of the study is to find out the relationship between learner absenteeism and environmental factors. The research question was framed as: How do environmental factors influence learner absenteeism in schools, conceptualised as human activity systems in the Kavango Region (Namibia)? The wider intention of this study is to inform processes that can be put in place to reduce the impact of environmental factors on learner absenteeism, with the ultimate view of improving the quality of education. The literature review provides insight into learner absenteeism in developing and developed nations. It outlines the Namibian policies developed for improving learner attendance and retention of learners in schools, with the view of improving access to school. The study is located within the broader goals of education of Namibia. The research adopts a qualitative interpretive approach, and focuses on environmental factors influencing learner absenteeism in six case studies, which are selected schools in the Kavango province. The study uses a variety of tools such as questionnaires, focus group interviews, observations and interviews as well as document analysis. It uses a combination of inductive and abductive modes of inference in the data analysis. It draws on systems thinking to develop a model that theorises the interrelated roles of different stakeholders, namely, learners, teachers, parents, educational officials (including the regional office and the Ministry of Education). It proposes possible strategies for reduction of learner absenteeism that could contribute towards the improvement of the quality of education. It also mentions the benefits of reducing learner absenteeism in the schools involved in the case study. The findings clearly show that poverty is the main environmental factor that influences learner attendance. The impact of poverty does not, however, occur in isolation; it interacts and has influence over other environmental factors such as alcohol abuse, sickness, lack of parental involvement, lack of motivation from stakeholders and household work. The study also found certain educational factors influenced learner absenteeism, such as teacher attitude, pedagogical styles, and lack of security. The study ends with recommendations to reduce learner absenteeism and recommendations for further research.
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Mazer, Cherie. "An Evaluation of the Iowa State University Ecosystem." Doctoral diss., University of Central Florida, 2014. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/6319.

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Purpose – This dissertation in practice is an evaluation study conducted at Iowa State University, entitled, Learning Ecosystem Assessment Review of Needs (LEARN). The evaluation posed these questions: (a) What educational technologies are currently used and what technologies will be needed in the future? (b) What are the attitudes and practices of faculty and students toward online and blended learning? (c) What academic technology support services are used? What are the perceptions of the support provided for the application of academic technologies? Methodology/design – The study was a mixed-methods design employing interviews with deans and focus groups and surveys of faculty and students. Findings – Iowa State University faculty and students use a wide array of academic technologies both in physical and virtual classrooms. The prevailing sentiment regarding the need for future academic technologies is not for new offerings and new features but for easier to use, more reliable technologies, and more timely support. Although Iowa State University has formally adopted online learning by offering numerous programs and courses, the university is in the early stages of adopting blended learning. Implications – The results and implications of the study inform the university on next steps to ready the institution for leveraging technology and preparing for the transformation toward strategic adoption of online and blended learning. The author outlines an organizational learning approach to manage change and promote adoption of blended learning.
Ed.D.
Doctorate
Education and Human Performance
Education
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Mowes, Delvaline Lucia. "An Evaluation of student support services in open and distance learning at the University of Namibia." Thesis, Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/1263.

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Distance education and open and flexible learning policies have done much to extend accessibility to higher education throughout the world. However, distance education is not just a move away from learning in the classroom. It is a complete paradigm shift and when delivering learning materials outside the classroom across any distance, it is important that technologies and techniques support students. Against this background, the case has been made that the provision of student support services, according to the diverse needs and expectations of adult distance education students, should be an integral part of the provision of open and distance learning. The focal point of this study was to evaluate student support services, provided at the northern campus of the University of Namibia, from a student perspective. A combination of both quantitative and qualitative methodologies was chosen and data were collected by means of a literature review and a questionnaire, supplemented with open-ended questions. The subjects of the study were second- and third-year B.Ed. students from the northern campus of the University of Namibia. The results of this study have provided evidence that adult distance education students indeed value the provision of student support services. Specifically, students in this study placed the greatest importance on student support services related to getting started with their studies, for example orientation sessions about available student support services and contact and communication with tutors and fellow students by means of vacation schools, face-to-face tutorials on Saturdays at regional centres and support through study groups. One of the conclusions of the study was that the institutional policy and the role of management are crucial in the establishment of an effective student support model to facilitate distance learning. The following recommendations were formulated: The University’s Centre for External Studies (CES) should conduct periodic and regular evaluation studies of its distance education students to design, develop and provide student support services that will be tailored to students’ specific needs and expectations. CES should pay attention to support services that help reduce barriers if it is to attain its mission of making quality higher education more accessible. CES should provide adequate training to tutors to prepare them for the special challenges presented by open and distance learning. CES should design and implement an appropriate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) course to empower distance education students adequately for the use of modern ICT.
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Sinvula, Leonard Masene. "The role of leadership in a successful rural secondary school in Namibia: a case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004925.

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The primary purpose of this qualitative case study research was to examine the role of leadership in a successful rural secondary school in Namibia. In Namibia, the Education and Training Sector Improvement Programme (ESTIP) was initiated to provide, amongst other things, effective leadership in education. In addition, the Ministry developed a policy on the National Standards and Performance Indicators for Schools in Namibia to complement the objectives of ETSIP. The policy emphasizes leadership practices in schools such as professional competence, commitment, ability to direct, inspire and motivate interpersonal relationships and teams. The study drew on leadership theories and findings from related studies to make sense of the role played by leadership in this particular rural school in Namibia. The study uses the interpretive orientation as the methodology for investigating the leadership's role. This is in line with my attempt to determine stakeholder's experiences and perceptions of the leadership in the school. I collected data from three sources: semi-structured interviews, observation and document analysis. The findings of this study suggest that the leadership had a significant influence on the school's success. In particular it emerged that the school leadership played an instructional role to ensure there was effective teaching and learning and that they encouraged teamwork extensively in leading the school. The leadership provided internal support structures as well as external networking to garner support for the school from the wider community. The study has also revealed that there are challenges facing this rural school's leadership in terms of poor parental involvement. Challenges such as lack of parental commitment to the school, illiteracy among adults and a communication breakdown between the school and its parents are still rife. The school leadership addresses this challenge by participating in village meetings and utilizing them as a platform to discuss school matters with parents. Further research on this topic would be useful, including such institutions as rural primary schools, private schools and colleges in the Caprivi Region, as very little research has been done on leadership roles in schools in the rural areas of Namibia.
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Ipinge, Emma. "The role of management and leadership in the schooling of at-risk learners: a case study of a school in Namibia." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003634.

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Most schools that serve learners who come from disadvantaged areas and backgrounds face unusually difficult challenges. These schools experience poor performance and disciplinary problems, and teachers lack motivation and commitment. This study explores the role of leadership and management in the schooling of at-risk learners at Pandu Primary School. This school accommodates learners mostly from Hafo, a township characterised by poverty with a high crime rate. However, in spite of these factors school inspectors and advisory teachers perceive the school to be successful. The school uses an abundance of energy and unusually high levels of human effort in a very focused way to improve the teaching and learning standard. The study found the co-existence of apparently conflicting management and leadership approaches in managing and leading the school. Strict control used in the school to make teachers work hard is an element of classical organisational theory, with its emphasis on span of control or number of workers supervised. Policies with strict rules are in place to create a calm atmosphere and serve as directives for teachers and learners. On the other hand, constructivist approaches – such as instructional leadership, transformational leadership, collegial model of management and open systems – are also clearly evident in the findings. Instructional leadership is evident in the emphasis on improvement of classroom practice. Elements of transformational leadership are seen in that the principal motivates the teachers and serves as a role model. The school also has some features of the collegial model of management, and can be described as an open system. Thus, by drawing on management and leadership approaches informed by different traditions and philosophies, the school succeeds against severe odds.
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Makuwa, Demus Kaumba. "Looking beyond educational indicators: an analysis of differences in learner results of a standardised English language comprehension test administered in Katima Mulilo and Rundu educational regions of Namibia." Thesis, University of the Western Cape, 2003. http://etd.uwc.ac.za/index.php?module=etd&amp.

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This thesis attempted to develop insight into why, contrary to expectation and predictions, learners in Rundu obtained better scores in a standardised English comprehension test than learners in Katima Mulilo, given that the conditions of teaching and learning were judged to be least favourable in Rundu.
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Möwes, Delvaline Lucia. "An evaluation of student support services in open and distance learning at the University of Namibia /." Link to the online version, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10019/1620.

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Yassin, Menna. "Steady State Hydroplaning Risk Analysis and Evaluation of Unsteady State Effects." Scholar Commons, 2019. https://scholarcommons.usf.edu/etd/7990.

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Hydroplaning is a major concern on high speed roadways during heavy rainfall events. Hydroplaning tools are widely used by designers to reduce their roadway’s hydroplaning potential, therefore reducing the possibilities of severe crashes. This dissertation presents two methodologies for improving the prediction of hydroplaning potential. The first phase focused on improving an existing widely used software called PAVDRN. Using multiple datasets from the Florida Department of Transportation, the author filtered the data using specific criteria to leave only truly dynamic hydroplaning crashes. The author then evaluated PAVDRN’s prediction capabilities and assessed its reliability in predicting a hydroplaning crash. Using past accident statistics, the author accounted for extraneous factors that are difficult to capture, such as driver behavior, and obtained probability factors for a more realistic estimate of hydroplaning risk on roadways. The second phase focused on improving the modeling technique used in hydroplaning prediction tools. Currently when assessing a roadway’s hydroplaning potential, the roadside drainage is not considered in the analysis. The author modeled a combined pavement-drainage system using a 1D/2D method to better capture the effects of roadside drainage, especially in the events of flooding. The methodology used in modeling successfully captures the backwater effects that are caused under critical flooding conditions. Lastly the author created a new tool (MY-PAVDTCH) to provide design engineers with updated waterfilm thickness values under roadside drainage flooded conditions.
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Jacobs, Nicola Clara. "Investigating quality in Education through the use of an active learning framework : the case of an intervention in the Namibian Environmental Studies curriculum." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1019803.

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The study was conducted to explore the relationship between active learning processes emerging from the use of O’Donoghue’s (2001) active learning framework and a series of education quality indicators proposed by Nikel and Lowe (2010). To achieve this aim a professional educational intervention was conducted encouraging the use of this active learning framework in the Namibian Environmental Studies Curriculum, in order to strengthen educational quality within the Environmental Studies Curriculum. The research was conducted in the Windhoek region at the school where I am currently teaching. Four teachers took part in this study, including myself in the role of a participantobserver. The active learning framework was used to guide us in the planning and presentations of environmental learning lessons. The study was conducted within the interpretive paradigm and was qualitative in nature as well as focusing on a quantitative aspect to analyse some of the data (learners’ written work). Qualitative data were generated through individual interviews, focus-group discussions, lesson observations and document analysis. The key findings of the study were that: a) prior to the intervention with the active learning framework the teachers who took part in the study did not ask learners to explore environmental issues in the environment or to respond to particular environmental issues; b) active learning processes have the potential to facilitate the exploration of environmental issues in the environment, and responses to particular environmental issues. Active learning also have the potential to strengthen all aspects of education quality indicated in Nikel and Lowe’s (2010) quality model, namely effectiveness, efficiency, equity, relevance, responsiveness, reflexivity and sustainability; c) the active learning framework encouraged teachers to use a variety of situated learning approaches, such as the collaborative method, the cooperative method, the problem-solving method and the enquiry method, in order to strengthen the educational quality in Environmental Studies classrooms; and d) teachers find the active learning framework useful as a tool for planning and presenting environmental learning lessons. The findings of the study have the potential to inform curriculum developers, materials developers and educators with an interest in improving education quality through environmental learning processes within the Environmental Studies Curriculum in Namibia. Furthermore, Nikel and Lowe’s education quality indicators provided an informative and comprehensive understanding of education quality and provided a useful tool in evaluating and reflecting on education quality as well as my own work as a teacher.
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Al-Gharaballi, Amal. "An evaluation of kindergarten curriculum in the State of Kuwait." Thesis, University of Exeter, 1995. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.294438.

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Moelanjane, Porgarius Porgacy Rukee. "The perceived impact of policy change on leadership and management : a case study of a Namibian school." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007670.

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The transformation of education has been central to the programme of the first democratically elected government in Namibia, both because of the democratic demands for equality, equity and access, and as a means towards the wider transformation of Namibian community. The study provides a brief history of the pre- and post-independence education policy environment in Namibia with regard to how management and leadership of schools gave rise to opportunities for the development of democratic participation. Adopting an interpretive approach, the study examines several key stakeholders' perceptions of the impact of transformation initiatives on their leadership and management thinking and practice. The sample comprised four teachers, a principal, a director, a school board member, two learners and a hostel matron. The findings reveal that, in order to create a democratic school community, the stakeholders' role is largely a matter of opposing and transcending the contradictions, inadequacies and limitations inherent in the educational ideas, policies and practices caused by the previous Apartheid education system. There is a reasonable amount of success in the implementation process of democratic leadership and management of schools. The findings further highlight contradictory tendencies, in that the Ministry of Basic Education Sports and Culture established a uniform system of education but also entertained the principle of decentralised governance through the introduction of school based management practice incorporating the main stakeholders at local level. The data confirms a communication gap between stakeholders, lack of adequate education and training in participatory management and leadership for learners, parents, teachers and school boards, and insufficient support from the national and the regional authorities. The study concludes with some specific recommendations that might strengthen stakeholders' sense of their participation in democratic practices for longer-term cost effective implementation to occur. This is supported by the belief that education policy change only becomes a reality once understood, owned and appreciated at local level.
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Kristensen, Jesper Olsson. "An evaluation of the life science curriculum in Namibia and its development through stakeholders' perceptions of ʺlearner centred educationʺ." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2000. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003409.

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Following Independence in 1991 Namibia embarked on a major reform of the entire education system. The reform was perceived as a way of redressing the apartheid legacy and bringing about a democratic learner centred education for all. At the same time the reform was also seen as a prime vehicle to bring about sustainable development through incorporating relevant environmental education into various carrier subjects. One such carrier has been the subject Life Science, which is compulsory from Grade 8 to Grade 10. The Life Science Project was a joint venture between the Ministry of Education and Ibis, a Danish Development NGO, established to develop and support the implementation of Life Science in junior secondary schools. This half-thesis is an evaluation of the Life Science Project through an analysis of the central assumptions on which the Life Science curriculum is based and by investigating different stakeholders’ perceptions and understanding of the learner centred approach adopted by the curriculum. Three questions have guided this research: 1. Are there curriculum models that are more conducive for reform and change than others? 2. Do stakeholders and curriculum developers in Namibia understand the theory of social constructivism, and the systemic implications such an approach has for the education system? 3. Which approach to environmental education complements a transformative curriculum and the changes outlined in policy? From the research carried out in this half-thesis, it would appear that the Namibian education system and the Life Science curriculum suffers from what could be termed “ideological confusion”. Confusion in the sense that there are marked inconsistencies between policy and praxis, between the stated goals and aims of the reform and the curriculum designed to achieve these. This confusion is further exacerbated by various stakeholders’ different interpretations of both policy and the systemic implications the reform policy has on education. In this half-thesis I argue that embarking on an objectives driven model of curriculum cannot bring about change and transformation of the Namibian education system. I further argue that, by not having considered and implemented the necessary systemic changes to the education system, Namibia has, in fact, developed a child centred education system which is fundamentally different from a learner centred education system. Finally, I argue that environmental education, through the subject Life Science, set within an objectives driven, Child Centred Education system is inappropriate for and unable to address the need for developing an environmentally literate citizenry who are able to take informed decisions in order to address the environmental crisis and bring forth a more sustainable future.
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Florence, Joseph, and Randy Byington. "Our Roots/Our Story: Interprofessional education at East Tennessee State University." Digital Commons @ East Tennessee State University, 2016. https://dc.etsu.edu/ijhse/vol3/iss2/3.

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Lee, Brian King-tung. "The evaluation of mother tongue education policy in Hong Kong." access abstract and table of contents access full-text, 2008. http://libweb.cityu.edu.hk/cgi-bin/ezdb/dissert.pl?ma-sa-b22723183a.pdf.

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Thesis (M.A.)--City University of Hong Kong, 2008.
"SA 6903 MAPPM dissertation." "A dissertation undertaken in partial fulfillment of the requirements of the M.A. in Public Policy & Management, City University of Hong Kong." Title from PDF t.p. (viewed on Sept. 24, 2008) Includes bibliographical references.
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Ladd, Ronald Joshua. "A Study of Alternative Education Programs in the State of Missouri." Thesis, Lindenwood University, 2015. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=3682286.

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The focus of this study was to examine the characteristics of alternative programs in the state of Missouri and to determine whether a statistical difference in the persistence to graduation rate existed between the two variations of programs. When identifying the characteristics, several commonalities emerged. These commonalities could be the focus of future studies to determine a list of best-practices among alternative programs. When focusing on the statistical element of this study, the two programs in question were revolving door and one-way programs. For the purpose of this study, a revolving door style program was defined as one that assesses and addresses student needs within an alternative setting. Once they record significant progress, these students return to the regular classroom setting. A one-way program style assigns students to an educational setting once they prove that the regular classroom setting is not an appropriate situation. The at-risk students in this program will either graduate from the alternative school or choose not to complete high school. According to the findings of this study, there was no statistically significant difference between and among the persistence to graduation rate midst the revolving door and one-way styles of alternative programs.

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Tshiningayamwe, Sirkka Alina Nambashusan. "Implementation of environmental learning in the NSSC biology curriculum component: a case study of Namibia." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003446.

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In the context of ecological crisis and environmental deterioration, teaching about environmental issues and the preservation of the world’s environment has become increasingly important across the globe (Chi-chung Ko & Chi-kin Lee, 2003). Of the various subjects taught in secondary schools, Science is often perceived as one that can make a significant contribution to environmental education. It is in this light that the study has looked at how Grade 11 and 12 Biology teachers in the Namibian context implement Environmental Learning (EL). This study was constituted as a case study of two schools in Windhoek, in the Khomas region. The study investigated the implementation of EL in the Biology curriculum focusing on the constraints and enabling factors influencing the implementation. This study employed qualitative methods, specifically semi-structured interviews, classroom observations and document analysis in its investigation of EL implementation. Purposive sampling was done and piloting of interview and observation schedules was used to refine the schedules. Ethical issues were taken into consideration throughout the study. The key findings from the study are as follows: - Teachers’ knowledge and interest in environmental education influence how teachers facilitate EL; - There is a mismatch between EL theories and practice; - Teaching of EL is mainly informed by the syllabus and not other curriculum documents, - Current assessment policy and practice impact on EL; and - Possibilities exist for improving EL in Namibia’s Biology curriculum. These key findings have been used to make recommendations for the study which are as follows: - Strengthen the subject content and interest of teachers; - There should be a match between EL theories and practice; - Reorient curriculum documents and other learning support materials used for EL; - Change in assessment approaches; and - Translate constraints of EL into enablers. The study concludes by calling for further research into EL pedagogies. This can be used to improve EL implementation in the region where the study was situated.
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Coy, Doris Rhea. "An Evaluation of The Ohio State University Doctoral Program in Counselor Education 1985-1995 /." The Ohio State University, 1996. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1487933648649075.

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Mohamed, Ahmed Ramadan Ahmed. "County agents' assessment of The Ohio State University extension support and performance evaluation system /." The Ohio State University, 1998. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1487953567769553.

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Muhapili, Andrew Matumo. "Exploring student teachers' active learning through self-assessment, peer assessment and reflection at Rundu Campus at the University of Namibia." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/79881.

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Thesis (MPhil)--Stellenbosch University, 2013.
Bibliography
Student teachers are faced with the challenge of adapting their teaching so as to accommodate active learning through self-assessment, peer assessment and reflection. The objectives of the study were therefore to explore how active learning may be enhanced through self-assessment, peer assessment and reflection. The participants in the study were second- and third-year students at Rundu Campus of the University of Namibia. The research employed a case study design with qualitative data and using a descriptive, contextual approach. Semi-structured interviews, focus-group interviews and observations were utilised to obtain data. Once consent was obtained from the relevant authorities, second- and third-year student teachers were interviewed. Ethical requirements were adhered to throughout the research process. The findings indicated that students had both positive and negative perceptions in respect of self-assessment, peer assessment and reflection in promoting their active engagement in learning. Overall, the findings of the study revealed positive signs that active learning can be enhanced by student teachers through the use of strategies such as self-assessment, peer assessment and reflection. The study also pointed to implications of the research for teacher education practices and possible future research.
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40

Craig, Erin McKenzie. "An examination of the Oregon State college and career education investment and the Eastern Promise program." Thesis, University of Southern California, 2014. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=3628143.

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The purpose of this study is to focus on the Obeys college and career investments and determine: Obeys expectation for a plan to address Oregon college and career readiness; how these investments align to high school students' successful completion of at least nine college credits prior to high school graduation; how successful Eastern Promise as. non-Eastern Promise high school students are in completing at least nine college credits prior to high school graduation; and how scalable the Eastern Promise early college program is statewide. The study investigated a purposeful sample of high schools participating in Eastern Promise compared to a purposeful sample of non-Eastern Promise high schools in an effort to determine how many students acquired at least nine college credits prior to high school graduation, graduate from high school in four years, and enroll in a post-secondary institution the following semester.

After a single year of pilot data, the Eastern Promise is lacking substantial and adequate quantitative data to determine how effective the Eastern Promise is in students completing at least nine credits prior to high school graduation, graduating from high school, and enrolling in a post-secondary institution as compared to a control group of Eastern Oregon high school students. Eastern Promise data availability for 2012-2013 is strictly limited to credit by proficiency overall performance by college course and only represented by academic grade and pass/withdraw rates.

The OB investments for the Eastern Promise have been allocated so $2,000,000 will support the existing program in Eastern Oregon, and another $2,000,000 will be allocated to scale the Eastern Promise across Oregon through the RIP process. Structured and operative supports for diverse students' needs to ensure that all students have the opportunity to take college courses through the Eastern Promise could address at-risk student access.

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Reid, Bryan. "Implementing curriculum change within a state education department region : analysis and conceptualization." Murdoch University, 1986. http://wwwlib.murdoch.edu.au/adt/browse/view/adt-MU20060829.160229.

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The major aim of this study was to develop a conceptual model representing the implementation process of a curriculum change occurring in a State Education Department region. This development had its genesis in the now extensive body of literature related to the organizational phenomenon of planned change. Since its early development in the 1960ts, the study of planned change occurring i n organizations has grown in sophistication, encompassing a steadily evolving number of theoretical constructs. Such a construct, of recent origin, was that of perceiving implementation of the innovation as a discrete process within the total planned change process. Although stillinits infancy, this concept has attracted a steadily growing body of research, The present study co-ordi nated some of these findings to form the basis for a four-stage model representing the implementation process under a special set of circumstances. The application of the model was tested under field conditions. A longitudinal case study design was adopted because this was ideally suited to test the assumption of implementationas a process. The design was divided in to four sections : concepts related to the decision to change; concepts related to the effect the rationale for implementation had on teachers' behaviour; concepts related to the sequence of involvement of implementers; and finally, concepts related to the measurementof the degree of implementation for teachers and pupils. Field work was applied inarural educational region of the State of Western Australia. This region was established in 1979 as part of an Australia-wide trend. I t is well documented that at the commencement of the 19701s, Austral ian governmentcontrol led education systems were highly centralized. By the beginning of the 1980ts, all were facing major change, each incorporating some form of decentral ization. In Western Australia, a shift in power from central authorities to Regional Superintendents occurred. With the increase i n power, the Regions received more duties and became more complex organizations. To meet the demand of testing a complex theoretical model in the intricate field setting of a State Education Department region, a wide range of data-gathering techniques was used. Questionnaires were employed, some specifically designed to suit this study and some selected from other research. The breadth and depth of the data collected was extended by the use of interviews, both focused and unstructured. Information from a wide variety of perspectives was gathered by using direct observation. This was applied to the testing of the theoretical model and also used to validate data drawn from other sources. Content analysis techniques were also used to triangulate the findings from questionnaire and interview techniques. The findings of the analysis of the data,within a matrix of hypotheses and sub-hypotheses, provided powerful statistical evidence indicating that the innovation was judged as being implemented by the teachers and the pupils. Data collected were also analysed as part of the research plan incorporating four major hypotheses and twenty six sub-sections. Each sub-section has been investigated empirically. This strategy was used to test the applicability of the conceptual model as a technique to represent the process of implementation followed by an innovation in Oral English introduced into a rural region of a State Education Department. The model proved to be a very effective device, aiding in the comprehension of an implementation process that occurred under the particular conditions described in the thesis.
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Crawford, James Douglas. "Teacher Job Satisfaction as Related to Student Performance on State-Mandated Testing." Thesis, Lindenwood University, 2017. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=10636578.

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The growing demand placed upon educators has taken a toll on the profession (Walker, 2014). Teacher burnout, stress, and unhappiness may be predestined unless administrators recognize how to prevent these from happening (Elias, 2012). The intent of this quantitative study was to survey teachers in southwest Missouri to determine their level of job satisfaction as it relates to student performance on state-mandated assessments. The survey included items designed to collect data on overall level of teacher job satisfaction in relation to demographic areas of age range, gender, level of education, years of teaching experience, subject areas taught, and salary range. The first research question was designed to determine the correlation between high school teacher job satisfaction and high school student achievement. Based on this research, there was a relationship between teacher job satisfaction and Missouri Performance Index scores. The second research question was designed to determine the correlation between teacher job satisfaction and years of experience, salary, age, level of education, and gender. Based on the data collected, there was a correlation between teacher job satisfaction and years of experience and between teacher job satisfaction and the age of the educator. However, there was no correlation between teacher job satisfaction and level of education, nor between teacher job satisfaction and gender. Research question three was posed to determine if there was a difference in teacher job satisfaction between those teachers required to administer end-of-course (EOC) exams and teachers who were not required to administer EOC exams. The research determined there was no difference in job satisfaction between the two groups.

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Sprankle, Betty Sue. "Mission and funding strategies of public education foundations in Oklahoma /." Access abstract and link to full text, 1992. http://0-wwwlib.umi.com.library.utulsa.edu/dissertations/fullcit/9219890.

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Coffield, Judi L. Di Pietrantonio. "An evaluation of the action team process in a state department of education." Access to citation, abstract and download form provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company; downloadable PDF file 1.27 Mb., p, 2006. http://gateway.proquest.com/openurl?url_ver=Z39.88-2004&res_dat=xri:pqdiss&rft_val_fmt=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:dissertation&rft_dat=xri:pqdiss:3220629.

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45

Johnston, Robert Scott. "Evaluating the Impact of Missouri Senate Bill 291 on Fifth and Ninth Grade State Physical Fitness Standards." Thesis, Lindenwood University, 2015. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=3682285.

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The current obesity rates of our nation's youth continue to escalate at an alarming rate due to inactivity, poor nutrition, and lifestyle changes. The purpose of this research study was conducted to determine the effects of Missouri Senate Bill 291 on Missouri physical fitness scores as assessed by the Missouri Physical Fitness Assessment.

The state of Missouri adopted new physical activity requirements starting in the 2010-2011 school year. This study evaluated the impact of Missouri Senate Bill 291 on fifth and ninth grade physical fitness assessments. Eleven years of statewide data, were examined to determine the impact of the physical activity mandate. Quantitative data analysis revealed a significant improvement for all four fitness assessments for grades 5 and 9 since the passage of Missouri Senate Bill 291. Grade 9 indicated a statistical significant change in the flexibility assessment. Results suggested that Missouri Senate Bill 291 has had a positive impact on statewide physical fitness assessments. Despite this positive improvement, overall fitness of Missouri fifth and ninth graders is still a major concern due to approximately three out of ten students failing the Missouri Physical Fitness Assessment.

This study provided for the value of fitness data collection moving forward with improving youth health and wellness. Further research and recommendations are advised in order to study trends related to youth physical fitness. In conclusion, state education departments and school districts should consider the value of collecting and examining fitness scores to develop curriculum that promotes healthy lifestyles which can improve academic success.

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46

Chainda, Allen Mukelabai. "Third-year students' preceptions of the use of ICT at a teacher training college in Namibia." Thesis, Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/6558.

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Thesis (MPhil)--University of Stellenbosch, 2011.
The use of ICT to enhance the quality of student learning is generally observable in higher education institutions. The adoption of ICT policy for education in Namibia in 1996 has profoundly encouraged the use of ICT to enhance student learning at teachers training colleges, in particular Caprivi College of Education. Although ICT has positioned itself in higher education, its implementation to enhance student learning has been received with mixed feelings, attitudes and perceptions among students. The use of ICT in relation to learning paradigm, collaborative and/or co-operative learning, deep learning approach and assessment seem to be problematic among students and may affect their learning. Issues related to access to ICT, ICT skills and support (technical and service) contribute to students’ negative perceptions towards the use of ICT in learning. The purpose of this study was to investigate students’ perceptions of the possible effect of ICT application on student learning at Caprivi College of Education in order to determine the ICT skills and learning strategies student teachers use to enhance their learning. The research strategy for this study was a quantitative survey. Quantitative data was obtained by administering closed-ended questionnaires to third-year student teachers at Caprivi College of Education. The study concludes that student teachers overwhelmingly perceive the use of ICT to enhance their learning in various ways.
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47

Peterson, Serene N. "An analysis of state and local alignment of teacher evaluation in Maryland." W&M ScholarWorks, 2014. https://scholarworks.wm.edu/etd/1539618410.

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This study explored the components of Maryland's newly-implemented teacher evaluation framework and compared state requirements with evaluations to three local school systems' evaluation procedures. The study sought to investigate the relationship between three evaluation protocols in comparison to the state requirements.;Three local school districts were selected based on their student population served and the availability of their evaluation documents. Howard County Public Schools, Anne Arundel County Public Schools, and Montgomery County Public Schools were selected. State evaluation documents were also included in the study, coming from the Maryland State Department of Education. Evaluation documents underwent a qualitative data analysis using computer coding software and were checked manually repeatedly.;It was hypothesized that the local school district evaluation documents would not be in compliance with the state's evaluation procedures. However, it was concluded that this was, in fact, not the case. The school districts used in the study each differed in their means of developing the professional practice of teachers, but remained true to the Danielson evaluation model that the state of Maryland utilized. Further study is needed to explore the initial implementation of these evaluation procedures.
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Wuebbels, Paula J. "Effectiveness of Reading and Writing Across the Curriculum on Middle School Reading Comprehension and Preparation for Common Core State Standards." Thesis, Lindenwood University, 2014. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=3645328.

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This research study was conducted to determine the impact of determine the perception of classroom teachers and building principals as to the effectiveness of required Reading and Writing Across the Curriculum in both core and non-core subject areas. Both core and non-core classes are presently required within the study school district to incorporate reading and writing strategies in their content areas. The researcher wanted to study the process to prepare administrators and teachers to work successfully with the advent of required common core standards for curriculum development. Strategies used in the study will help gather information to inform the preparation of administrators and teachers who adopt the Common Core State Standards in the area of Reading and Writing Across the Curriculum. This research study was conducted to determine the impact of determine the perception of classroom teachers and building principals as to the effectiveness of required Reading and Writing Across the Curriculum in both core and non-core subject areas. Both core and non-core classes are presently required within the study school district to incorporate reading and writing strategies in their content areas. The researcher wanted to study the process to prepare administrators and teachers to work successfully with the advent of required common core standards for curriculum development. Strategies used in the study will help gather information to inform the preparation of administrators and teachers who adopt the Common Core State Standards in the area of Reading and Writing Across the Curriculum.

This report was meant to extend the discussion between the effectiveness of reading and writing strategies in middle schools and preparing teachers for the Common Core State Standards. The author used a mixed method research design to find answers to her questions.

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Campbell, Coral, and mikewood@deakin edu au. "Science education in primary schools in a state of change." Deakin University, 2000. http://tux.lib.deakin.edu.au./adt-VDU/public/adt-VDU20050815.101333.

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Through a longitudinal study of one teacher's science teaching practice set in the context of her base school, this thesis records the effects of the structural and policy changes that have occurred in Victorian education over the past 6-7 years - the 'Kennett era'. Initially, the purpose of the study was to investigate the teacher's practice with the view to improving it. For this, an action research approach was adopted. Across the year 1998, the teacher undertook an innovative science program with two grades, documenting the approach and outcomes. Several other teachers were involved in the project and their personal observations and comments were to form part of the data. This research project was set in the context of a single primary school and case study methodology was used to document the broader situational and daily influences which affected the teacher's practice. It was apparent soon after starting the action research that there were factors which did not allow for the development of the project along the intended lines. By the end of the project, the teacher felt that the action research had been distorted - specifically there had been no opportunity for critical reflection. The collaborative nature of the project did not seem to work. The teacher started to wonder just what had gone wrong. It was only after a break from the school environment that the teacher-researcher had the opportunity to really reflect on what had been happening in her teaching practice. This reflection took into account the huge amount of data generated from the context of the school but essentially reflected on the massive number of changes that were occurring in all schools. Several issues began to emerge which directly affected teaching practice and determined whether teachers had the opportunity to be self-reflective. These issues were identified as changes in curriculum and the teaching role, increased workload, changed power relations and changed security/morale on the professional context. This thesis investigates the structural and policy changes occurring in Victorian education by reference to documentation and the lived experiences of teachers. It studies how the emerging issues affect the practices of teachers, particularly the teacher-researcher. The case study has now evolved to take in the broader context of the policy and structural changes whilst the action research has expanded to look at the ability of a teacher to be self-reflective: a meta-action research perspective. In concluding, the teacher-researcher reflects on the significance of the research in light of the recent change in state government and the increased government importance placed on science education in the primary context.
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Cotton, Dorothy R. "The golden state| Shedding light on the improvement plans of California's TK-12 districts to reduce the disproportionate identification of emotional disturbance." Thesis, California State University, Long Beach, 2014. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=3674332.

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The phenomenon of the disproportionate representation of students of color in special education programs has been a concern amongst educational scholars over the last four decades; especially in the category of emotional disturbance. Qualitative research that explores actual districts as well as the programs they implement is needed to assist practitioners within the nation's TK-12 districts. The purpose of this study was to investigate what policies and procedures districts have revised or implemented to reduce referrals for special education placement, as well as compare state required improvement plan documents across participating districts. This study focused on California TK-12 districts that have been identified as significantly disproportionate in one or more disability categories by the California Department of Education. In-depth interviews of directors of special education were used as the research design approach to gain an understanding of the root causes of disproportionality as well as explore policies and procedures to reduce inequitable referrals. The findings were analyzed through the researcher-created conceptual framework of factors that reduce disproportionality. These factors include: access to effective instruction, sufficient resources, culturally responsive schools, equitable referral procedures, proper use of tests, and trained teachers.

Clear themes emerged around the conceptual framework. The findings revealed that inequitable referral and assessment procedures, cultural incompetency, inconsistent pre-referral interventions, and a lack of accountability were contributing factors that led to disproportionality for the participating districts. The study also revealed that ongoing and frequent professional development and inter-district collection of referral, suspension, and intervention data has a positive effect on monitoring disproportionality. Recommendations for policy-makers and practitioners aimed at developing cultural responsive practices that provides support for students of color prior to referrals for special education assessment.

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