Academic literature on the topic 'Primary school principals – Training of – South Africa'
Create a spot-on reference in APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and other styles
Consult the lists of relevant articles, books, theses, conference reports, and other scholarly sources on the topic 'Primary school principals – Training of – South Africa.'
Next to every source in the list of references, there is an 'Add to bibliography' button. Press on it, and we will generate automatically the bibliographic reference to the chosen work in the citation style you need: APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago, Vancouver, etc.
You can also download the full text of the academic publication as pdf and read online its abstract whenever available in the metadata.
Journal articles on the topic "Primary school principals – Training of – South Africa"
1
Aina, Adebunmi Yetunde, and Keshni Bipath. "School financial management: Insights for decision making in public primary schools." South African Journal of Education 40, no. 4 (November 30, 2020): 1–9. http://dx.doi.org/10.15700/saje.v40n4a1756.
Full textAbstract:
To realise the ideal of quality inclusive education, proper financial management is vital. Existing literature indicates that the mismanagement of school funds is largely due to principals and the school governing bodies (SGB) in many schools not having good working relationships with stakeholders and lacking the necessary financial skills, more specifically in schools in townships and rural areas. The study we report on in this article investigated the financial management of public primary schools situated in urban areas by adopting a qualitative research approach and employing a multiple case study research design. Five schools participated and data were collected through individual semi-structured interviews with the principal, school accountant and chairperson of the SGB of the selected schools. Findings revealed that, despite the fact that all South African schools are governed and controlled by the South African Schools Act, the financial management of fee-paying schools differs from no-fee schools situated in townships and rural areas. In many schools, the unavailability of the parent members of SGBs and their limited financial skills were barriers to effective financial decisions. Based on these findings, we recommend that the relevant stakeholders involved in school financial management obtain continuous training from the Department of Basic Education, in order to empower and support school governors to effectively carry out their financial functions.
2
Bush, Tony, and Derek Glover. "School leadership and management in South Africa." International Journal of Educational Management 30, no. 2 (March 14, 2016): 211–31. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/ijem-07-2014-0101.
Full textAbstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic review of the literature on school leadership and management in South Africa, linked to the 20th anniversary of democratic government and integrated education. Design/methodology/approach – The authors conducted a systematic review of all published work since 2007 with a more selective review of sources before 2007. Findings – The findings show emerging evidence about the development of school leadership and management in South Africa but they also highlight on-going challenges, including poor learner outcomes, conflict with teacher unions, uneasy relationships between principals and school governing bodies, and leadership which remains focused on administration rather than teaching and learning. Research limitations/implications – The findings show that research on school leadership and management is developing but remains limited in terms of its scope and a reliance on small-scale unfunded projects. Practical/implications – The findings confirm the need for specialist leadership training for current and aspiring principals and for other senior and middle leaders. Social/implications – The findings show that South Africa remains a divided society with great differences in the quality of education available to learners, based on social class rather than race. Originality/value – The paper’s value lies in the comprehensive and systematic review of research on school leadership.
3
Ndebele, Clever. "Gender and School Leadership: Breaking the Glass Ceiling in South Africa." Multidisciplinary Journal of Gender Studies 7, no. 2 (June 25, 2018): 1582. http://dx.doi.org/10.17583/generos.2018.2438.
Full textAbstract:
This study looked at leadership from a gender perspective in a rural context in South Africa. The study investigated the challenges faced by female school principals because of their gender in one rural district. Grounded in the qualitative paradigm and using the social realist theoretical analytical framework, a thematic approach was used in analysing qualitative data gathered through semi-structured interviews with ten female school principals. Findings showed that female school principals were not perceived as incompetent and unable by male colleagues only, but also by female staff colleagues as a result of an entrenched culture of male dominance. Among the challenges faced by female principals included: negative attitude from some parents and educators; being undermined because of their gender and lack of confidence on their side. The study recommends the mounting of gender awareness workshops with both parents and educators to sensitive them on gender equity issues. In addition the study calls for mentoring and networking workshops, in service training opportunities and role modelling to be given to female teachers who aspire to, and have potential in leadership so that these female teachers can feel empowered and see that they have the potential of being leaders.
4
Khumalo, Shuti Steph. "ANALYZING THE EXPERIENCES OF WOMEN PRINCIPALS IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN LIMPOPO PROVINCE, SOUTH AFRICA THROUGH SOCIAL JUSTICE THEORY." Problems of Education in the 21st Century 79, no. 1 (February 10, 2021): 47–59. http://dx.doi.org/10.33225/pec/21.79.47.
Full textAbstract:
School leadership research has provided extensive empirical evidence which shows that women as school leaders face challenges on many fronts. The objective of this study was to provide insight regarding the challenges that female primary school principals face, in the Waterberg Education District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. These challenges were in respect of the perception of staff members towards women as school principals. This study was qualitative and interpretive in nature. The theory of social justice was used as a theoretical framework. Social justice theorists argue that social institutions have the responsibility to dispense justice, fairness, and equity. The researcher used semi-structured in-depth interviews to gain rich descriptive data on the experiences relating to the leadership roles of the principals. Findings indicate that female principals face challenges, such as insubordination by male staff members, frustrations of not progressing beyond the position of principalship and sexual harassment. This study is of great value as it extends the body of knowledge on the challenges that primary school women principals face in their leadership practices. Key words: social justice, women principals, sexual harassment, primary schools, insubordination, self-esteem, self-image
5
Khumalo, Shuti Steph. "The Role of Transformational School Leadership in Promoting Teacher Commitment: An Antecedent for Sustainable Development in South Africa." Discourse and Communication for Sustainable Education 10, no. 2 (December 1, 2019): 22–32. http://dx.doi.org/10.2478/dcse-2019-0015.
Full textAbstract:
Abstract Promoting sustainable development is top on the agenda of many national governments. The provision of quality primary education is key in pursuing this agenda and relies heavily of committed teachers. This article explores the potential contribution of transformational leadership practices of primary school principals in promoting teacher commitment. It is argued that primary school principals who exhibit the transformational leadership feature of commitment motivate teachers towards commitment and thus contribute towards sustainable development. This study was quantitative in nature and out of the hundred and fifty teachers sampled, only ninety-five responded to the questionnaires. Drawing from the theory of transformational leadership and the findings from the Limpopo Province education district case study, it can be concluded that primary school principals promote the culture of commitment and therefore a foundation for sustainable development is laid.
6
Munje, Paul N., and Loyiso C. Jita. "The implementation of the school feeding scheme (SFS) in South African Public primary schools." Educational Practice and Theory 41, no. 2 (December 1, 2019): 25–42. http://dx.doi.org/10.7459/ept/41.2.03.
Full textAbstract:
In this paper the authors use the collaboration framework to explore the implementation of the School Feeding Scheme (SFS) in two primary schools within South Africa. The authors use a qualitative approach to gather data through individual and focus group interviews with two principals and eight teachers respectively. The feeding process was also observed. The authors found that despite recorded achievements, smooth implementation of the scheme was stifled by varied challenges. However, the current situation can be improved if principals initiate strategies that promote collaboration, while caterers and teachers are trained on collaboration and professional ethics. Monitoring and evaluation is encouraged to identify and resolve impending challenges.
7
Khumalo, Shuti Steph. "A Descriptive Analysis of the Leadership Practices of Primary School Principals in Promoting Sustainability Through Motivating Teachers." Discourse and Communication for Sustainable Education 12, no. 1 (May 29, 2021): 42–54. http://dx.doi.org/10.2478/dcse-2021-0004.
Full textAbstract:
Abstract Enhancing sustainability in primary schools is apposite because primary schools are the building blocks in any education system. In its examination, the study provides insights on the role of primary school principals in promoting sustainable education through inspiring teachers. Teacher motivation is a very critical focus research area, particularly in the present depressing times and particularly in promoting sustainability. Without ignoring and dismissing other factors that have a bearing on the poor performance of the South African primary schools, teacher discouragement is one of the factors. The purpose of this investigation was to explore the extent in which the leadership practices of primary school principals promote teacher motivation and ultimately achieving sustainable teacher workforce. This study was based on random sampled primary school teachers in South Africa, Waterberg District. Hundred and fifty survey questionnaires were distributed to participating primary schools and only 96 responses were received. The respondents were from a mix of both male and female teachers who responded to the questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was applied to analyse data. Even though the results indicated that there were issues with teacher motivation, to a significant extent, the majority of respondents demonstrated that most primary principals do take efforts in trying to ensure that teachers are motivated. The results of the study deepen the already existing scope of knowledge regarding teacher motivation, particularly in primary schools.
8
Thaba-Nkadimene, Kgomotlokoa Linda. "The influence of educational provision on teacher performance and learner outcomes among Limpopo primary schools." South African Journal of Education 40, no. 4 (November 30, 2020): 1–10. http://dx.doi.org/10.15700/saje.v40n4a2039.
Full textAbstract:
In the study reported on here the problem of inadequacies in educational provisioning among public schools that has a negative influence on teachers’ productivity and learners’ academic outcomes was examined. The primary objective of this study was to examine teachers’ and principals’ perceptions on the influence of educational provision on teacher performance and learner outcomes. The study was informed by critical social theory. The study tapped from the interconnection of constructivist and interpretivist paradigms and qualitative research, in using lived experiences and reflections of participants. Semi-structured interviews and observations were used to collect data from 5 school principals and 10 teachers in 5 primary schools in the Limpopo province, South Africa. Inadequacies in school provisioning was found to influence teacher performance and learner outcomes, causing psychological stress and low morale among teachers as a result of poor working conditions. Inadequacies in school resources constitute an unfair and unjust practice by the Department of Education and infringes upon learners’ right to education. Such infringement exacerbates learners’ demotivation, which subsequently results in them dropping out of school. Poor schools ultimately exclude Black students from quality education in South Africa. I recommend that the Department spearheads the implementation of the Framework on Equitable Provision of Infrastructure in Public Schools as a matter of urgency to ensure equity and access for poor schools.
9
Bidassey-Manilal, Shalin, Caradee Yael Wright, Thandi Kapwata, and Joyce Shirinde. "A Study Protocol to Determine Heat-Related Health Impacts among Primary Schoolchildren in South Africa." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 15 (July 31, 2020): 5531. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17155531.
Full textAbstract:
Climate models predict that the global average temperature of Earth will rise in the future. Studies show that high classroom temperatures can affect the ability of the student to learn and function. It is important to understand the impact that heat will have on the health, wellbeing, and academic performance of learners, as they spend a significant amount of time in classrooms compared to any other environment. A follow-up panel study among 20 public primary schools in the Gauteng province (South Africa) will be carried out, in which Grade 4 learners will be selected to complete an hourly heat-health symptom questionnaire. A Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) test will be used to determine their memory and attention span. A nursing practitioner will measure body weight, height, and temperature. Lascar data loggers will be used to measure indoor classroom temperature. School principals will complete a questionnaire on existing school coping mechanisms and policies in place that help deal with hot weather conditions. This is the first study to quantitatively assess the effects of heat on learners’ health, well-being and school performance in South Africa. The outcomes of this study will enable policymakers and public officials to develop appropriate school heat adaptation and mitigation measures and will assist in channeling their resources where it is most needed.
10
Digwamaje, Olebogeng B., and Thomas (Tom) Buabeng Assan. "Nature and Characteristics of the Induction Programme for Primary School Principals in the North West Province, South Africa." Anthropologist 14, no. 4 (July 2012): 269–77. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09720073.2012.11891248.
Full textDissertations / Theses on the topic "Primary school principals – Training of – South Africa"
1
Cicilie, Wayne Cyril. "Problems and training needs of women education managers in primary schools in Bloemfontein." Thesis, Bloemfontein : Central University of Technology, Free State, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/11462/63.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (M. Tech.) - Central University of Technology, Free State, 2006Women Education managers are still in the minority in primary schools in Bloemfontein, despite the many changes education has undergone in recent years. It is against this background that the researcher found it imperative to investigate the problems women education managers might experience in carrying out their managerial duties and responsibilities. The study further sought to investigate the training needs of women education managers. On the basis of the perceptions held by educators, findings of research studies and the little South African literature that exists, the research questions crystallise as follows: What managerial problems do women education managers experience in carrying out their managerial duties? Do women education managers experience problems other than managerial problems in carrying out their duties? What training do they require? The purpose of this investigation was to gain an insight into the problems women education managers in primary schools in Bloemfontein experience in carrying out their managerial duties. The literature review provided a focus as the framework on which this study is based. In order to collect factual information about the managerial problems women education managers in primary schools in Bloemfontein encounter, questionnaires were distributed amongst the target group. Women education managers experience problems in performing their managerial duties. These problems include delegation, finance management, human resource management, planning, formulation of objectives, policy formulation, decision making, problem solving and allocation of time. There are some factors other than managerial competence and leadership style that have an influence on the way women education managers perform their duties. These factors include workplace discrimination, sexual harassment, negative attitudes towards women, emotional influences, promotion myths, lack of self-confidence, lack of support, role models and positive reinforcement, cultural socialization as well as allocation of duties. Other organisational factors women experience include: difficulty to cope with the demands of the post, too much workload, human relations, division of work in the department and when acting as principal when he/she is absent. Based on the findings of the study, it is imperative that relevant training programmes that would address the particular needs of women education managers in primary schools in Bloemfontein, be developed. These training programmes should address the various areas of management which are problematic to women education managers. As education managers, women should seize every opportunity to leave behind the gender discrimination which is still prevalent in the sphere of education and commit themselves to undergo management training to successfully execute their managerial duties. As education managers, women also need training in various organisational issues in which they experience problems. These problems also have an influence on the way women execute their managerial duties. Recommendations for the study: By providing women education managers with the necessary managerial skills, the different areas of management in which women experience problems can be eradicated. They will have to undergo relevant training. Workshops and in-service training sessions need to be conducted to address the managerial areas in which women education managers experience problems. The findings of this study are not representative of the Free State province and further research needs to be conducted in the entire province or even all over South Africa.
2
Le, Roux Moses Jakobus. "Principals and their possible power to influence quality education." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/20015.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MEd)--Stellenbosch University, 2012.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The National Department of Basic Education is aware that it is not succeeding in providing quality education for all school children. At present the performance of grade 3 and grade 6 learners, in both international and local assessment, is a matter for great concern. The results suggest that most learners lack basic literacy and numeracy skills. Learners’ performance in the National Senior Certificate Examinations is also far from what it should be. The way in which schools are managed largely determines the quality of education learners receive. As the managers of schools, therefore, principals are held responsible for the poor performance of learners during these annual systemic evaluations. The study aimed to investigate whether the school principals are aware of their powers and whether they perceive themselves as able to use their power to influence school practices positively and thus promote quality education. The study indicates that principals rely on a combination of positional and personal power sources to promote quality education. The study also indicates that principals are aware of their power but have a limited understanding of the concept of power. They also seem to lack the knowledge and understanding to exercise these powers effectively. Although they seem able to exercise considerable power in different situations, principals are reluctant to use their power. It seems that various external and internal factors influence their ability to use their power effectively.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Geen Afrikaanse opsomming
3
Girvin, Craig Milton. "Management training for school principals : a survey of the content of a selection of available training courses and of the opinions of a group of school principals in the Cape Town Metropolitan Area." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 1995. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/17453.
Full textAbstract:
Bibliography: pages 76-82.The election of a new South African government in April 1994 has marked the onset of major changes in the education system. These changes will be most universally felt in their effects on schools. Thus school principals will become the fulcrum around which change takes place, receiving policy directives from the authorities and being responsible for their propagation and implementation in the schools. In such a situation, the whole question of the training, both pre-service and in-service, that is provided for school principals to equip them for their job becomes crucial. This study identifies a selection of in-service courses available to school principals in the Cape Town metropolitan area and compares the content of these courses with a list of the tasks and skills required of principals in the 1990's identified from a survey of the international literature. The aim is to determine the extent to which these courses are dealing with the tasks and skills. The literature survey also identifies a list of characteristics appropriate to effective in-service courses against which the Cape Town courses are compared. As an adjunct to the study, the opinions of a group of school principals were canvassed via a questionnaire. This questionnaire attempted to establish what management training these principals had received and also in which areas they desired training or further training. In the final section of the study, policy recommendations relating to management training for school principals are made. The study concludes that, whilst there are a number of courses on offer for school principals in the study area, management training for school principals does not appear to have been a priority in the past, there is very little co-ordination between the courses, and there are a number of important areas that are addressed by few, if any, of them. Amongst its recommendations, therefore, is the establishment of a research institute to co-ordinate in-service training for school principals and thus provide a more effective basis from which they can carry out their important role in the future.
4
Van, der Merwe H. "In-house mentoring and school leadership : perceptions of well-performing primary school principals." Journal for New Generation Sciences, Vol 12, Issue 2: Central University of Technology, Free State, Bloemfontein, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/11462/664.
Full textAbstract:
Published ArticleA growing scholarship links good leadership with in-house mentoring. This article looks at how well-performing school leaders benefitted from the inhouse mentoring they received. The author reports on a qualitative investigation based on in-depth individual interviews with six primary school leaders from Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Northwest Provence who were purposefully selected based on their receiving a national award for excellence in leadership. These awards were made by the Department of Basic Education in the category 'Excellence in primary school leadership'. The findings show that in-house mentoring benefitted participants holistically through behavioural, knowledge and skills acquisition. Behavioural acquisition included being humble and empathetic towards constructive work performance. Knowledge and skills acquisition related to sustaining the standard of teaching of core subjects, relying on committee input in a relational leadership approach and ensuring a dedicated teacher corps and positive parent involvement. The findings contribute to the discourse on inhouse mentoring for improved school leadership practice.
5
Rajagopaul, Vithagan. "The leadership role of primary school principals in economically disadvantaged areas affected by HIV and AIDS." Thesis, University of the Western Cape, 2008. http://etd.uwc.ac.za/index.php?module=etd&action=viewtitle&id=gen8Srv25Nme4_9333_1241761571.
Full textAbstract:
This study formed part of the broad theme on the impact of HIV and AIDS on school-going learners sponsored by the Dynamics for Building a Better Society programme of the University of the Western Cape and the VLIR Partnership. HIV and AIDS poses a unique challenge to society in that it is a private disease transmitted mainly through unprotected sex that still has no known cure. A challenge to society invariably challenges schools. Primary school principals are obligated to respond because learners in the 5 to 14 year age range provide an opportunity for education, advocacy, prevention, treatment and support. This study aimed to contribute to a better understanding of school leaders and their responsibility towards HIV and AIDS and poverty.
6
Thambekwayo, Musa A. "Investigating mentoring as a form of social learning for school principals." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/20150.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MEd)--Stellenbosch University, 2012.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Mentoring as a professional development strategy forms an integral part of the Advanced Certificate: School leadership that was introduced in 2007 by the National Education department as an entry qualification in the school principalship. The Advanced Certificate in Education: School Leadership is aimed at capacitating school leaders to address the challenges experienced by school principals. The primary objective of this study was to investigate whether the mentorship component of the course is experienced as a form of social learning by the candidates. To achieve this goal, open-ended questions were prepared and administered during semi-structured interviews with the school principals who have been mentored within the ACE programme. The interviews were conducted to ten (10) participants including principals, deputy principals and heads of departments (school level) within the Gert Sibande District (Mpumalanga Province). The investigation highlighted that principals do indeed experience mentoring as a form of social learning. This was confirmed by the statements given by the interviewed principals that their learning was based on learning from each other through observation and engagement as well as through their mentors. This learning is confirmed by Bandura’s Social Learning Theory (1977) which suggests that learning takes place through observation and positive behaviour of the mentor. Based on the findings, the main recommendations were that mentorship, as social learning, should be extended to all school leaders and ultimately to school educators, that a mentoring unit should be based at each district office, that the selection of mentors should be carried out carefully so that protégés could benefit maximally and that the period of mentoring should go beyond merely being a component of an academic course.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Mentorskap as ‘n professionele ontwikkelingstrategie vorm ‘n integrale deel van die Gevorderde Onderwyssertifikaat: Skoolleierskap wat in 2007 deur die Nasionale Onderwysdepartement as ‘n toetree-kwalifikasie vir skoolhoofde ingestel is. Die Gevorderde Onderwyssertifikaat: Skooleierskap is gerig op die kapasitering van skoolleiers om die uitdagings wat die posisie van Skoolhoof meebring aan te spreek. Die primêre doelwit van die studie was om vas te stel of die mentorskapkomponent van die kursus deur kandidate as ‘n vorm van sosiale leer ervaar word. Om die doel te bereik is oopvrae voorberei en geadministreer tydens semi-gestruktureerde onderhoude met skoolhoofde wat as deel van die Gevorderde Sertifikaat: Skoolleierskapkursus gementor is. Die onderhoude is gevoer met tien skoolhoofde, adjunkhoofde en departementshoofde van die Gert Sibande distrik (Mpumalanga). Die ondersoek het aan die lig gebring dat skoolhoofde wel die mentorskapproses as ‘n vorm van sosiale leer ervaar. Hierdie aspek is bevestig deur die respons van skoolleiers dat hulle van mekaar geleer het deur observasie en braadslaging asook deur die modelering van mentors. Diè vorm van leer strook met Bandura se Teorie van Sosiale Leer (2007) wat die idée onderskryf dat leer plaasvind deur observasie en modelering van positiewe gedrag van die mentor. Gebaseer op die bevindinge is die hoof aanbevelings wat in die studie gemaak word dat mentorskap, as sosiale leer, uitgebrei behoort te word na alle skoolleiers en uiteindelik na alle onderwysers, dat ‘n mentorskapeenheid by elke distrik gebaseer behoort te word, dat die keuring van mentors omsigtig moet geskied sodat protégés maksimaal voordeel trek en dat mentorskap verder moet strek as bloot ‘n komponent van ‘n akademiese kursus.
7
Dubula, Nomvuyo Mildred. "The principal factor : examining the role of principals in the success of their schools." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1010881.
Full textAbstract:
In this Treatise, a study is undertaken to analyse and examine the role of school principals in the success of their schools; with specific reference to township high schools in the Port Elizabeth district (P.E. district). The study assumes that P.E. district principals, as leaders and managers should deliver essential services effectively, efficiently, and with optimal use of resources to attain maximum results in school performance. The same is expected of their counterparts in any part of the country, it is not exclusively demanded from PE district principals. In terms of the current education legislation and policy framework, the principals have to account for the performance of their schools. To this end the National Department of Education introduced legislation in 2007 to ensure that principals account to the Head of The Department of Education of the relevant province. Section 16 A of the South African Schools Act (SASA) was introduced by the Education Law Amendment Act 31/2007. The provisions of this section deal with “the functions and responsibilities of principals of public schools.” Specifically section 16A (1) (b) states that “The principal must prepare and submit to the Head of the Department an annual report in respect of: (i.) The academic performance of that school (ii.) The effective use of available resources.” Since the enactment of section 16 A as referred to above, the Provincial Departments have begun to make principals account for the success or failure of learners, for human resource development, financial management, parent involvement in school matters and the active participation of school governing bodies. What should be clear is that the above encompasses all the critical and fundamental aspects that have an impact on the progress of any educational institution. The combination of the two requirements stated above reflects the extent to which the Department of Education is committed to making certain that principals in their respective schools create an environment where learners can achieve their full potential. It is such creation of conducive environments that will enable all learners in the country to achieve equal opportunities in society irrespective of their original backgrounds. This ideal is consistent with section 9 of the Constitution, 1996 which provides for the right to equality of all people. The research, also assumes that leadership is about direction and purpose, while management lays emphasis on effectiveness and efficiency. Leadership and management are fundamental aspects of those duties and responsibilities associated with the position of a school principal. It is further postulated that, a good principal understands that circumstances determine the proportion of each of these elements that is required by any given situation i.e. whether more of leadership or bigger dose management is appropriate in dealing with a certain set of circumstances or not. The study identifies variables that make a school principal a strong leader and good manager and lists the following as the critical focus areas: Balancing instructional and managerial leadership Strengthening the connection between school and home Developing effective leadership Effective teaching practices Staff development The study also assumes that township schools are no exception to those in different parts of the country. Despite some serious daily challenges peculiar to the township situations, these schools still have to perform satisfactorily like all other institutions of learning. The legislative and policy framework applies equally to all schools. The study argues primarily that all schools can perform well and develop the potential of their learners to the fullest. The difference lies in the leadership and management of the respective institutions by their principals. All stakeholders are presumed to posses the potential, the ability and the urge to do their utmost best to render quality services that would lead to the attainment of excellent results. It is worthwhile for the system that those who show themselves to lack these attributes should be identified, not to weed them out but to assist so that they acquire the necessary skills and expertise. After all it is by strengthening the weakest link that a chain becomes strong.
8
Wildsmith, Rosemary. "A study of teacher attitudes as related to teacher practices at primary school level in South Africa." Thesis, University College London (University of London), 1992. http://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/10006577/.
Full textAbstract:
The research reported on in this thesis investigated the nature of the relationship between teachers' attitudes and perceptions regarding the language learning/teaching process and their pedagogical practices in class, within two English as second language teaching contexts - a non-formal project and a state primary school. Both attitudes and practices were examined in relation to an educational model consisting of a bi-polar dimension, moving from a traditional, transmission-oriented perspective on teaching, to a more progressive, generative one. This model was based upon preexisting models drawn from educational philosophy and communicative language teaching. Thus, a principle of communicative orientation underpinned the model and provided the theoretical framework for the design of the major research instruments viz, an attitude questionnaire and a classroom observation scheme. The data from these research instruments were supplemented by that obtained from more naturalistic methods such as interviews, stimulated recall and diary entries, so that data was produced that could be analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Thus, the state of the art of pedagogy in black primary classrooms was examined in terms of both the micro-context (pupil numbers, teacher qualifications, etc), and the macro-context (wider societal structures and ideology) which might have an influence on teachers' attitudes and practices in class. Alternatives to this type of pedagogy were then considered with reference to various project initiatives encouraging communicative approaches to language teaching. Finally, the implications of the study for research into teacher thinking in general, and for new roles in particular, are examined in relation to two innovative research techniques and an attitude awareness activity. The educational model is then reappraised in the light of the research findings.
9
Biccard, Piera. "The didactisation practices in primary school mathematics teachers through modelling." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/85598.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (PhD)-- Stellenbosch University, 2013.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Mathematics teacher development is a source of national and international concern. This study describes how primary school mathematics teachers develop didactisation practices. In considering how teachers could develop, so that student learning is optimised; the concepts of didactisation and the mathematical work of teaching were sourced from existing literature. The concept didactisation is explored and defined; and is incorporated with the concept of mathematical work of teaching. Nine practices were made explicit through this incorporation: active students, differentiation, mathematisation, vertically aligned lessons, access, probe, connect and assess student thinking, and teacher reflection. These nine practices become the framework for the professional development program and the data generation structure. Five primary school teachers were involved in a professional development program that used model-eliciting activities (MEAs) as a point of departure. A modelling perspective to teacher learning was chosen for the professional development program. The methodology followed the principles of design research and from this, a three phase teaching experiment was designed and implemented. The teachers and researcher met for development sessions and teachers were observed in practice at intervals throughout the program. Their developing didactisation practices were documented through a qualitative analysis of the data. It was established that teachers’ didactisation practices did develop during the nine-month program. Furthermore it was found that didactisation practices developed at different rates and consequently, a hierarchy of didactisation practice development is presented. The impact of the program was also gauged through teachers’ changing resources, goals and orientations. These three aspects also evolved over time. The program proposed in this study may be a suitable model to develop in-service and pre-service mathematics teachers. The study contributes to understanding teacher action in a classroom and how teachers can change their own thinking and practice.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die ontwikkeling van wiskundeonderwysers is ‘n bron van nasionale en internasionale kommer. Hierdie studie beskryf hoe die didaktiseringspraktyke van laerskool wiskundeonderwysers met die oog op optimalisering van leer ontwikkel het. In die bestudering van die ontwikkeling van onderwysers met die oog op optimalisering van leer, is die begrippe didaktisering en die wiskundige werk van onderrig (mathematical work of teaching) nagespoor uit bestaande literatuur. Die begrip didaktisering is deeglik ondersoek, gedefinieer en saamgevoeg met die begrip wiskundige werk van onderrig. Nege praktyke is eksplisiet gemaak deur hierdie inkorperering: aktiewe studente, differensiasie, matematisering, vertikaalgerigte lesse, toegang, indringende ondersoek, gekonnekteerdheid en assessering van studente-denke, en onderwyserrefleksie. Hierdie nege praktyke het die raamwerk gevorm vir die professionele ontwikkelingsprogram en die data genereringstruktuur. Vyf laerskool onderwysers was betrokke in ‘n professionele ontwikkelingsprogram waarin model-ontlokkende aktiwiteite (MOA’s) as ‘n vertrekpunt gebruik is. ‘n Modelleringsperspektief is vir onderwyserleer in die ontwikkelingsprogram gekies. Die metodologie volg die beginsels van ontwerpnavorsing waarna ‘n drie-fase onderrig-eksperiment ontwerp en in werking gestel is. Die navorser en die onderwysers het byeengekom vir ontwikkelingsessies; die onderwysers is op ‘n gereelde basis tydens die program besoek om hul onderwyspraktyk waar te neem. Hul ontwikkelende didaktiseringspraktyke is gedokumenteer en die data is kwalitatief geanaliseer. Onderwysers se didaktiseringspraktyke het wel gedurende die negemaande program ontwikkeling getoon. Hierdie didaktiseringspraktyke het egter teen verskillende tempo’s ontwikkel en daarom kon ‘n hierargie van die ontwikkeling van didaktiseringspraktyke saamgestel word. Die impak van hierdie program op onderwysers se veranderende hulpbronne, doelstellings en oriëntasies is ook gemeet. Die drie aspekte het in hierdie nege maande verder ontwikkel. Die voorgestelde program in hierdie studie mag moontlik ‘n gepaste model wees om indiens en voornemende wiskundeonderwysers te ontwikkel. Die studie lewer ‘n bydrae tot ‘n beter begrip van onderwyserhandelinge in ‘n klaskamer, asook hoe onderwysers hul eie denke en praktyke kan verander.
10
McFarlane, Johannes. "A critical investigation into course development for the preparation of school leaders." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2000. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007596.
Full textAbstract:
Many schools in South Africa suffer from the consequences of bad leadership and management practices. A contributing factor to this problem is the inadequate preparation of school leaders for the wide variety of challenges facing them. This study formed part of a three-year project to develop a preparation programme for school leaders in the Southern Cape area of South Africa. Its aims focussed on the identification of principles for the design of preparation programmes leading to improvements in practice. Twelve teachers and principals participated in the project. They enrolled for a programme in school leadership designed and offered by the University of Port Elizabeth in consultation and cooperation with the Southern Cape Learning Resource Unit in George. Five sources were utilized for the provision of data: - The existing literature on the development of preparation programmes; - The group of twelve participants of the programme; - The four school principals in the group who acted as a focus group; - The staff and certain documents from the schools where these four principals are employed; - Local stakeholders with an interest in the success of the programme. Research methods typical of the interpretive tradition were utilized in orderto arrive at a better understanding of the needs of participants and of those elements of programmes which have the greatest impact on practice. Among the insights to have emerged from the study are the following: - The fact that the preparation of school leaders is a complex and multifaceted process which is enhanced by variety, continuous interaction between presenters and participants, flexibilityt o respond to changing needs and contexts, and an ongoing implementation in and feedback from practice ; - The central role played in the professional and academic growth of participants by individuals and groups around them; - The importance of action research as a tool in the accomplishment of a variety of goals in the preparation of school leaders. The main contributions of this study include: - A framework for the development of preparation programmes, ensuring the inclusion of a wide range of elements enhancing the effectiveness of the course; - A framework for the establishment of professional networks supporting participants in preparation programmes.
Book chapters on the topic "Primary school principals – Training of – South Africa"
1
Bipath, Keshni. "School Safety in Mamelodi." In Cultivating a Culture of Nonviolence in Early Childhood Development Centers and Schools, 19–34. IGI Global, 2019. http://dx.doi.org/10.4018/978-1-5225-7476-7.ch002.
Full textAbstract:
This chapter provides an overview of the crisis surrounding school safety in South Africa in general and in Mamelodi East in particular. It outlines a case study of the context and crisis in primary schools there, laying bare the brutal truth of bullying, vandalism, and gangsterism in these schools. Research into senior primary, high, and primary schools led to an empirical investigation which included interviews with school principals. This confirmed a reality that is being ignored: the current education system is in fact creating more opportunities for violence, bullying, and impoverishment. While resources such as the National Safety Programme exist, their translation into real measures and interventions remains questionable. Amongst other interventions, a more relevant Afrocentric curriculum and training for teachers is recommended. All stakeholders in education, community, home, and industry need to be held responsible for this dire situation and to take collective action.
2
Steph Khumalo, Shuti. "The Leadership Practices of the South African Primary School Principals in Promoting Shared Decision Making." In Innovations in Educational Leadership and Continuous Teachers' Professional Development, 139–60. CSMFL Publications, 2020. http://dx.doi.org/10.46679/isbn978819484832507.
Full textAbstract:
Decision-making is a very critical aspect of management in the schooling environment. The purpose of this chapter was to investigate the role of primary school principals in engaging role players (particularly teachers) in decision-making in South Africa. Before the democratic dispensation in South Africa, decision-making was predominantly top down. This means that school leadership and principals in particular, made most decisions on their own and teachers were expected to implement these decisions without asking questions. The current study was conducted in the Waterberg Education Department, which is one of the education districts in South Africa. A descriptive research method was used and one hundred and seventy questionnaires were administered to teachers. The study revealed that the majority of principals do promote shared decision-making. This is demonstrated by the fact that the findings further indicate that principals create opportunities for decision-making, they provide feedback and expect engagement of the feedback and allow the views of stakeholders in the work allocation process.
3
Reygan, Finn. "Teaching About Sexual and Gender Diversity and Challenging Homophobia/Transphobia in the South African School System." In Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Schooling, 165–84. Oxford University Press, 2016. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/med:psych/9780199387656.003.0010.
Full textAbstract:
The South African Constitution was the first in the world to include sexual orientation protections, and the country was an early embracer of same-sex marriage. Nevertheless, the lives of sexual and gender minorities in South Africa, including young people in schools, are often characterized by violence and discrimination. The growing body of research on sexual and gender diversity in education in South Africa indicates that homophobia is widespread in schools and that teachers and school principals are ill-prepared to challenge this homophobia and to teach in an affirming way about sexual and gender diversity. This chapter discusses the development of a training module for South African teachers on how best to challenge homophobia and transphobia and to teach about sexual and gender diversity in schools. Given the focus in South African education policy on social justice and inclusion in the post-apartheid context, this ground-breaking intervention supports transformative education policy.
Conference papers on the topic "Primary school principals – Training of – South Africa"
1
Mantshiyane, Nomvuyo Joyce, Wendy Setlalentoa, and Pule Phindane. "ATTITUDES OF GRADE ONE EDUCATORS TOWARDS THE IMPLEMENTATION OF INCLUSIVE EDUCATION IN CLASSROOMS AT BOTSHABELO SCHOOLS." In International Conference on Education and New Developments. inScience Press, 2021. http://dx.doi.org/10.36315/2021end081.
Full textAbstract:
The provision for learners with disabilities has been part of a process and the development of an inclusive education system can be traced back to the nation’s founding document, the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 108 of 1996. Creating an inclusive education environment is about celebrating diversity among learners and creating a welcoming culture where all learners are valued and made to feel that they belong. Inclusivity is about recognising that no two children are alike, and all children can learn. Most children with barriers to learning are accommodated in ordinary schools. Frequent causes of barriers to learning include discriminatory attitudes, labelling and discouragement. The study investigated Grade one educators’ attitude towards the implementation of inclusive education at selected Botshabelo Primary Schools in the Free State Province. The study adopted an interactive qualitative approach. The population comprised educators and principals from selected primary schools in Botshabelo. A non-probability selection of participants was used to randomly select educators and principals from five schools. Data were analyzed by means of thematic analysis. The results of the study revealed that there are different factors contributing to the attitudes of Grade one educators towards the implementation of inclusive education in classrooms, amongst others, untrained educators for inclusive education; unsuitable environment for the disabled learners with learning barriers; lack of resources for inclusive education and curriculum at the level of learners with learning barriers; lack of parental involvement; and classroom overcrowding. The results revealed solutions to the negative attitudes of Grade one educators towards the implementation of inclusive education in classrooms which include training educators for inclusive education; parental involvement in learner’s education; a suitable environment for disabled learners and those with learning barriers, consideration of learner-teacher ratio; availability of suitable resources for inclusive education; and availability of inclusive curriculum. The study recommends that educators should be developed professionally by being trained about inclusive education; parents should be involved to support educators and their children; the school environment and buildings should be free from hazards; and overcrowding in classrooms should be avoided.
2
Kazeni, Monde. "EARLY PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS’ PERCEPTIONS ABOUT SCIENCE AND SCIENCE PROCESS SKILLS: A CASE STUDY IN SOUTH AFRICA." In International Conference on Education and New Developments. inScience Press, 2021. http://dx.doi.org/10.36315/2021end004.
Full textAbstract:
Early primary school (grades R to 3) science education has been in the spotlight in recent years, as science education scholars are increasingly acknowledging the need to provide a strong foundation in science education, to motivate learners to study the subject in subsequent years. Literature suggests that most early primary school teachers lack the basic knowledge required to introduce young learners to science, and to motivate them in the study of science. Primary school teachers’ limited knowledge of science and its processes could affect how they introduce and develop science concepts in early primary school learners. In the South African context, there is limited literature on early primary school teachers’ knowledge of science and its processes, as well as on teachers’ attitudes towards the teaching of science to early primary school learners. The purpose of the study was to investigate early primary school teachers’ knowledge of the concepts of science and science process skills, and to determine their perceptions regarding the teaching of science in early primary school. The study involved four purposively selected early primary school teachers, in the Gauteng province of South Africa. Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interviews, and the findings showed that the participating teachers had limited knowledge of the concepts of science and science process skills, and that they mostly had negative perceptions about the teaching of science in early primary school. These findings have implications on the training of early primary school teachers.