Nature of in–service training to capacitate public secondary school teachers in the Matlosana area : a public management perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this research activity was to determine the nature of in-service training as a mode of capacitating and developing teachers in public secondary schools serviced by the Matlosana Area Office (AO). The process of teacher in-service training is constantly faced by challenges, which derail and stall progress and sometimes negatively affect learners’ performance. Amongst others, these challenges include: changes in the curriculum, inconsistent monitoring and follow-up on in-service training programmes, the impact of teacher performance on learners’ attainment, the HIV/AIDS scourge, poor learner discipline, incorrect placement of teachers with regard to school and subjects taught, and the low participation of key role-players. The Department of Education (DoE) is divided into the Department of Basic Education and the Department of Higher Education. A literature study to look into the Department of Basic Education’s Acts, policies, strategies and other relevant documents aimed at skilling and developing teachers, was carried out. This assisted the researcher in understanding the legal parameters that guide teacher in-service training. Upon completion of the literature study, a brief explanation of the empirical research design, the administration and the use of the questionnaire as a research tool, are given. Data were collected from the respondents in the randomly selected secondary schools in the focus area – by means of a questionnaire. These data gave the researcher an idea of the situation with regard to teacher in-service training in the Matlosana Area Office’s responsibility area. To respond to the statements, respondents were required to indicate their views by ticking on a 5-step Likert scale. Respondents were given the opportunity of writing down their opinions; and these were summed up and indicated. Data collected were analysed and presented in the form of tables and histograms. This was followed by the interpretation of these data. Chapter 5 of the mini-dissertation presents a summary of the research activities. The findings, in accordance with the literature review, and the results of the empirical research with regard to the stated research objectives, are also presented. Finally, based on the findings, conclusions are drawn and recommendations subsequently formulated. Major findings include the need for more time to be dedicated to in-service training, thorough monitoring and prompt follow-up thereof. Data collected also indicated that the DoBE has a number of programmes in place to develop teachers and to put them on a par with curriculum requirements. Despite these efforts, some schools are still performing below the required standard.