A reflective study on factors that influenced the matric results in physical sciences in four secondary schools in a district in the Eastern Cape
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Date
2017
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
University of the Western Cape
Abstract
This is a reflective study of the factors that influenced the performance of
learners in Physical Sciences National Senior Certificate examinations in
four secondary schools in a district in Eastern Cape. The study considered
factors that influenced the matric results for a period of five years in a district
in the Eastern Cape (from 2010 to 2015) National Senior Certificate results.
The study was conducted to identify the indicators that could positively
influence physical sciences results after many years of underperformance in
the subject. This study was underpinned by the theory of reflective practice.
As part of an intervention strategy, learners completed an intensive
programme of teaching during school hours, extra classes, practical work
and assessment. The four school principals were purposively selected for
interviews. Four Physical Sciences educators from the four senior secondary
schools and 12 post-grade 12 learners from each senior secondary school
were all interviewed. Post-grade 12 learners were randomly selected for
interviews. The researcher used a reflective journal as a method of
examining the reflections by the respondents. Teachers reflected on their
teachings to improve their practices that make science learning more
meaningful to both learners and teachers
The findings indicate that extra classes provided sufficient time to complete
the syllabus, to conduct experiments and to administer practical tests.
Regular assessment in theory and practical work showed the improvement
in attainment of good physical sciences results in all the four participating
schools. Instructional supervision from the managers also assisted in
developing teacher skills. It was recommended that the DoE should use
experts in teacher training and professional development activities. School
management systems should play an active role in teacher support and the
supervision of instructional work.
Description
Magister Educationis - Med
Keywords
reflection, reflective practice, syllabus coverage, practical work, extra classes, assessment, supervision, Physical Science