Inclusive alternative assessment: Exploring the use of scribes in a Cape Town primary school
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Date
2018
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
University of the Western Cape
Abstract
Learners in mainstream schools have diverse learning needs and experience a variety of learning
barriers. Many of the learners struggle to read and write, and are therefore in need of assistance to
enhance their academic performance. In addition, schools and teachers tend to assess leaners
predominantly through writing methods and prefer text-based approaches in the form of writing
over numerous other forms of assessment methods prescribed in the National Policy Pertaining to
the Programme and Promotion Requirements (NPPR) (DBE: 2012). However, there are other ways
through which learners can be assessed. This study explored the use of scribes as an alternative
method to assist learners with learning barriers. The study examined the challenges relating to
alternative methods of assessment within the inclusive education paradigm which seeks to
accommodate different learning needs in South African schools. The study investigated factors that
influence the implementation of alternative assessment to assist learners with diverse learning
barriers.
This study was conducted within the framework of a qualitative case study research methodology.
Data collection methods included the use of questionnaires, document analysis and semi-structured
interviews with teachers in Cape Town at a primary school (which constituted the case). The
research eek answers to the following research question to understand why the phenomena exist;
What factors influence the use of alternative assessment methods such as the use of scribes? The
research also aimed to understand teachers‟ views and perceptions regarding the implementation
and processes of alternative assessment methods.
Description
Magister Educationis - MEd
Keywords
Alternative assessment, Learning barrier, Inclusive education, Scribes, Primary school