Factors that impinge on the potential development of learners : a socio economic perspective

Abstract

This was a descriptive study based on identifying and assessing factors that impinge on the potential development of learners. A probability sample of 50 learners was selected from 5 high schools in the Mafikeng District in the North West Province. A questionnaire identifying and assessing factors that impinge on the development of learners was designed and administered by the researcher. The literature reviewed identified the following factors as detrimental to the potential development of learners: lack of parental involvement, lack of finances, attendance and lack of resources. Strategies such as community support groups, up to date technology in schools to be provided by the department of education and parental involvement strategies were also revealed in the literature study. It was hypothesized that lack of parental involvement and lack of finances accounts more on the potential development of learners. The result obtained correlated with the hypothesis that lack of parental involvement of learners and lack of finances are the major factors that impinge on the potential development of learners.