Klasbesoek as wyse van personeelontwikkeling

Abstract

This study is concerned with the following two questions namely: * What is understood by classroom visitation as a means of staff development? * How should the principal implement classroom visitation as a means of staff development? Staff development as a major management task performed by the principal has been discussed in regard to the four areas of management namely: planning, organising, advising and controlling. The aims as well as possible strategies of staff development have also been treated. Classroom visitation as a means of staff development is also dealt with in this study. Certain aspects such as the necessity and aims of classroom visitation as well as certain advantages and disadvantages thereof were discussed. The different roles fulfilled by the principal and the teacher as active participants to the program of classroom visitation, were also touched upon. The implementation of classroom visitation in practice, was determined by an empirical study. Analysis and interpretation of answers to a questionnaire which was sent out, was made whereafter certain conclusions were arrived at. The need for uniform guidelines as far as the implementation of a program of classroom visitation is concerned, were identified from literature as well as from the empirical study. In answer to the above mentioned needs, applicable guidelines for the implementation of a program for classroom visitation were pointed out. These guidelines were discussed in the context of four stages which should be administered when implementing classroom visitation. Lastly, from the literature study and the empirical study, certain conclusions and recommendations were made concerning this study as well as further research.