Voorligting aan die senior leerlinge van die primêre skool

Abstract

The problems of senior pupils of primary schools are of a twofold nature. Firstly, these pupils experience problems of a personality-educational nature and to a lesser extent, in the choice of a vocation, -- as a result of the particular phase of life in which they find themselves. Secondly, these pupils experience problems as result of the important decisions which they must make with regard to the various study directions offered in secondary education. In this investigation an attempt has been made through the study of various literature (as well as on grounds of practical experience) to contribute towards finding a solution to the problems which pupils experience under the present system of school guidance. This has been achieved by making a study of education, guidance, the phase of development of the senior primary school pupil and of the system of differentiation in education. Attention has also been drawn to the present circumstances applicable to the counselling of senior primary school pupils. Finally, guidelines are presented and suggestions made in connection with an effective system of guidance at school. A study of education and guidance has shown that guidance cannot serve as a replacement for education. Rather, it serves as an extension of the total programme in education. The senior pupils of primary schools reveal physical, motoric, emotional, social-cognitive and religious characteristics, as well as factors in regard to interest and aptitude which can only be comprehended after a thorough study has been made of these pupils and the development phase in which they exist at a particular time. A study of the practice of school guidance in primary schools has revealed that prior to 1970 no organised system of guidance, in any of the provinces, was in existence. At present the various education authorities do realise the need for an organised system of guidance at schools, however, there is a lack of agreement amongst the authorities as to the composition of such a system. Guidelines are laid down and suggestions made in connection with an effective system of guidance for the senior pupils in primary schools. Aspects which have received attention are the responsibility of staff, the allocation of time for guidance, a proposed programme for a school guidance service as well as how pupils can be assisted towards making meaningful choices with regard to the different study directions offered in secondary education. Certain recommendations arising from this study, are put forward at the conclusion.