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Item Embargo Experiences of novice educators when teaching multi-grade classes at selected primary schools of the Niani East Circuit in the Vhembe East District of Limpopo Province(2025-09-05) Netshivhale, Rudzani; Sotshangane, O. N.; Ravhuhali, F.This study aimed to explore the experiences of novice educators teaching in multi-grade classrooms. Multi-grade teaching has become a key focus in education, involving the integration of different grade levels within a single classroom, all taught by one educator. As such, this study specifically explored the experiences of novice educators in such teaching environments. Given the nature of the research, a qualitative approach was chosen. The study was carried out in selected public primary schools in the Niani East Circuit of Vhembe East District, Limpopo Province, with data collected through classroom observations and interviews. Nine public primary schools with multi-grade classrooms in the Niani East Circuit were selected for the study. Purposive sampling was used to select participants, comprising nine novice educators and nine principals from these schools. The data were analysed using a thematic approach. The research followed an interpretivism paradigm, aiming to gain an in-depth understanding of the experiences, behaviours, and social contexts of novice educators, ultimately producing rich, detailed data that illuminate the complexities of human behaviour in this educational setting. Reflective practice, professional collaboration, and Professional and Social Responsibility were the approaches used in this study to highlight how novice educators focused on their teaching practices and experiences to improve and develop as educators. It is hoped that the study will reveal experiences that included challenges or successes regarding teaching multi-grade classes. The findings could be useful to school principals and other stakeholders to inform practices that might be employed to induct novice educators into multi-grade teaching.Item Embargo A Study on the Impact of Coronavirus (Covid-19) Pandemic on Learner Performance in Grade 12 in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province(2025-09-05) Tshinavhe, M. T.; Mafenya, N. P.; Sikhwari, M. G.This study examined the impact of Covid-19 on Grade 12 learner performance in the Vhembe District. The pandemic had a severe effect on learners, particularly due to school closures, which disrupted teaching and learning. The significant loss of instructional time negatively affected learner performance for an extended period. Additionally, the study aimed to raise awareness among policymakers and educational leaders about the need to prepare for future disruptions in education caused by pandemics. A qualitative research design was adopted, using an interpretive phenomenological approach to gather insights from participants. Data were collected from learners in the Thulamela Municipality who completed Grade 12 between 2020 and 2023. The study involved fifteen former learners (ten males and five females) who directly experienced the effects of Covid-19 during their final school year. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and thematic analysis was used to examine the data. The findings indicate that learners faced various challenges, including disruptions to their education, difficulties adapting to distance learning, and worsening personal and family issues. These challenges were further compounded by technological barriers and limited resources, highlighting inequalities in access to remote learning. This study recommends enhancing digital preparedness through training on online platforms, improving access to digital resources, prioritising Grade 12 learners with flexible timetables, and providing mental health support through counselling and teacher training, while also involving parents in the educational process.Item Embargo Investigating the Involvement of Teachers in the Curriculum Development of Life Sciences Education in Secondary Schools(2025-09-05) Tshilongamulenzhe, Zwivhuya; Tshisikhawe, M. P.; Tshiovhe, T. E.This study aims to examine the involvement of Life Sciences teachers in curriculum development and how their participation influences the effectiveness of Life Sciences education in secondary schools in the Vhembe District. Life Sciences is a key subject in secondary education, yet teachers’ voices in curriculum development remain limited, which may affect teaching practices and learner performance. This study seeks to provide insight into the extent of teacher participation and its impact on curriculum implementation. This study will be underpinned by Vygotsky’s Socio-Cultural Theory, which emphasises the role of social interaction and collaboration in learning and knowledge construction, and the Teacher Professionalism Theory, which highlights the importance of teacher agency and participation in curriculum decision-making. A mixed-methods research approach will be employed, using a concurrent triangulation design to collect and interpret both quantitative and qualitative data simultaneously. For the quantitative component, the study will adopt a positivist paradigm, focusing on objective measurement of teachers’ participation through structured surveys. For the qualitative component, an interpretivist paradigm will be used to explore teachers’ experiences, perceptions, and insights through semi-structured interviews. A combination of quantitative surveys and qualitative semi-structured interviews will be used to gather data directly from Life Sciences teachers. Purposive sampling will be employed to select teachers who are directly involved in teaching Life Sciences. The sample will consist of 30 Life Sciences teachers drawn from selected secondary schools in the Vhembe District, which is considered adequate to provide meaningful and context-specific insights. Data analysis will involve descriptive statistics for quantitative data to summarise trends and patterns, while qualitative data will be analysed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes, perceptions, and experiences relating to teacher involvement in curriculum development. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to improving curriculum development processes, enhancing teacher participation, and strengthening the overall quality of Life Sciences education in the Vhembe District.Item Embargo Examining Teacher-Learner Stress During the Covid-19 Pandemic in Secondary Schools in Shamavunga Circuit, Mopani East District, Limpopo Province(2025-09-05) Ndhlovu, HlayisaniGuided by Transactional Stress Theory and an interpretive research approach, this study examines the stress experienced by teachers and learners during the Covid-19 pandemic in selected secondary schools within the Shamavunga Circuit, Mopani East District, Limpopo Province. The study focuses on three key objectives: identifying the causes of stress among teachers and learners during the pandemic, assessing how stress affected learners’ academic performance and teachers’ competencies, and exploring ways to reduce stress for both groups. A qualitative research approach was used, with phenomenology as the research design. Data was collected through structured interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. The study population included teachers and learners affected by Covid-19, and participants were selected through purposive sampling. The findings highlight various strategies that teachers and learners can use to manage and reduce stress caused by the pandemic, helping to maintain effective teaching and learning.Item Embargo A Reflective Study on the Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic on Curriculum Delivery in Secondary Schools in Vhembe West District, Limpopo Province, South Africa(2025-09-05) Nndwamato, Ntavhanyeni CalvinThis study explored the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on curriculum delivery in secondary schools in Vhembe West District, Limpopo Province. It focused on teaching, learning, and assessment in secondary schools during Covid-19. To achieve its objectives, the researcher used a qualitative research approach. Purposive sampling was used to select participants for data collection. A total of ten secondary school teachers took part in interviews, along with five departmental heads and five curriculum advisors. Teachers were selected to share their views and experiences on how Covid-19 affected their teaching and learning. Departmental heads were included due to their responsibility of ensuring effective curriculum delivery in schools, while curriculum advisors were interviewed as they monitor and support curriculum implementation. Participants were audio-recorded, and the qualitative data was analysed. The findings reveal that Covid-19 challenges were multifaceted, affecting teachers and departmental heads emotionally, professionally, and socially as they navigated an uncertain and unprecedented educational landscape. The study recommends equitable access to digital resources, continuous teacher training in digital literacy, and the adoption of blended learning. The government should invest in digital infrastructure and integrate mobile devices into teaching. Support systems for teachers and learners should be strengthened, and community partnerships are fostered to sustain education during crises.Item Open Access Effects of Conflicts of Interest on the Appointment of Principals: Perceptions on the Quality of Leadership in the Vhuronga I Circuit, Vhembe East District, Limpopo Province(2025-09-05) Mashila, Khwathisani; Mashau, T. S.This study aimed to determine the effects of conflicts of interest on the appointment of school principals. Specifically, it sought to find out teachers’ views regarding the extent to which conflicts of interest affect the appointment of quality school principals; to determine teachers’ perceptions regarding the impact of the appointment of poor-quality school principals on the delivery of effective teaching and learning at schools; and to recommend strategies that would help educational authorities eliminate conflicts of interest from appointment processes for school principals. The explanatory mixed-method research design was employed. The population comprised teachers, principals, School Governing Body (SGB) members, and union leaders from secondary schools in the Vhuronga 1 Circuit. Simple random sampling was used for the quantitative phase of the study, and the purposive sampling method was used for the qualitative phase of the study. A questionnaire was used to collect data for the quantitative phase of the study, and an interview schedule was used to collect data for the qualitative phase of the study. The data from the questionnaires was analysed using a computer programme called Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Data reduction and data display were used to analyse the qualitative data. Data from the qualitative phase was used to explain, refine or extend the results from the quantitative phase. Thereafter, both quantitative and qualitative data were integrated into a coherent whole. The study found that conflicts of interest exist in the appointment processes for principals and that the appointment of poor-quality principals compromised the achievement of school outcomes, thereby negating the delivery of quality education to learners. Recommendations were made to all important stakeholders in the appointment process to help eliminate the conflicts of interest.Item Embargo The effects of teachers workload on learners academic performance in secondary schools Hlanganeni Circuit, Vhembe District(2025-09-05) Muthevhuli, Phathutshedzo; Tshisikhawe, M. P.The effectiveness of teaching and learning in the classroom is correlated with teachers' workload. The kind of burden teachers have affects the academic performance of their learners. Due to a lack of staff, access to resources, and multi-grade teaching, teachers in secondary schools with low learner enrolment face the significant challenge of a workload that is above the teacher-pupil ratio. In contrast, teachers in schools with high learner enrolment deal with overcrowded classes that are challenging to manage. Therefore, the goal of this study is to examine how a teacher's workload affects secondary school learners' academic performance. A phenomenological research design will be used in this research. Data will be gathered using focus groups and face-to-face interviews. All ten secondary schools in the Hlanganani North circuit will make up the study population. There are 5246 learners and 165 teachers. The criteria for selecting secondary schools will be based on school enrolment. One secondary school with high enrolment and the other with lower enrolment in the Hlanganani North circuit will be chosen for this study. The study's participants will be chosen using a purposeful sampling method. Interviews will be conducted with 14 teachers (seven from each school), two department heads, and two school principals. The acquired data will be analysed via thematic data analysis. The study will concentrate on enacting change and finding solutions for the identified issue. Hopefully, the study will be advantageous to the Department of education and the schools' principals, teachers, and learners.Item Embargo Effects of Conflicts of Interest on the Appointment of Principals: Perceptions on the Quality of Leadership in the Vhuronga I Circuit, Vhembe East District, Limpopo Province(2025-09-05) Mashila, Khwathisani; Mashau, T. S.This study aimed to determine the effects of conflicts of interest on the appointment of school principals. Specifically, it sought to find out teachers’ views regarding the extent to which conflicts of interest affect the appointment of quality school principals; to determine teachers’ perceptions regarding the impact of the appointment of poor-quality school principals on the delivery of effective teaching and learning at schools; and to recommend strategies that would help educational authorities eliminate conflicts of interest from appointment processes for school principals. The explanatory mixed-method research design was employed. The population comprised teachers, principals, School Governing Body (SGB) members, and union leaders from secondary schools in the Vhuronga 1 Circuit. Simple random sampling was used for the quantitative phase of the study, and the purposive sampling method was used for the qualitative phase of the study. A questionnaire was used to collect data for the quantitative phase of the study, and an interview schedule was used to collect data for the qualitative phase of the study. The data from the questionnaires was analysed using a computer programme called Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Data reduction and data display were used to analyse the qualitative data. Data from the qualitative phase was used to explain, refine or extend the results from the quantitative phase. Thereafter, both quantitative and qualitative data were integrated into a coherent whole. The study found that conflicts of interest exist in the appointment processes for principals and that the appointment of poor-quality principals compromised the achievement of school outcomes, thereby negating the delivery of quality education to learners. Recommendations were made to all important stakeholders in the appointment process to help eliminate the conflicts of interest.Item Embargo Exploring the impact of COVID-19 curriculum recovery plan on English First-Additional language academic outcomes(2025-09-05) Vele, Rofhiwa Justice; Tshikota, S. L.; Badugela, T. M.The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted teaching and learning, particularly in remote areas where lockdowns halted educational activities entirely. In response, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) developed the COVID-19 Curriculum Recovery Plan (CRP) to address untaught curriculum segments when schools reopened. This study assesses the impact of the CRP on English First Additional Language (EFAL) academic outcomes in the Vhembe District, Limpopo Province. Guided by Vygotsky’s social constructivist theory and an interpretivist paradigm, the research employed a phenomenological qualitative design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions involving 20 participants (educators, learners, and departmental heads) from four secondary schools in the Nzhelele Central Circuit. Thematic analysis revealed key challenges, including limited technology access, pedagogical adaptation difficulties, and gaps in curriculum delivery and support systems. Despite these barriers, the study identified positive outcomes in EFAL learners’ academic performance. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to enhance resilience in educational systems during crises. Recommendations include equipping schools with digital devices and internet access, alongside implementing continuous professional development programs for educators in remote teaching strategies, digital literacy, and innovative assessment methods. This study contributes actionable insights for stakeholders to mitigate the impact of future disruptions on EFAL outcomes.Item Embargo Investigating the Involvement of Teachers in the Curriculum Development of Life Sciences Education in Secondary Schools(2025-09-05) Tshilongamulenzhe, Zwivhuya; Tshisikhawe, M. P.; Tshiovhe, T. E.This study aims to examine the involvement of Life Sciences teachers in curriculum development and how their participation influences the effectiveness of Life Sciences education in secondary schools in the Vhembe District. Life Sciences is a key subject in secondary education, yet teachers’ voices in curriculum development remain limited, which may affect teaching practices and learner performance. This study seeks to provide insight into the extent of teacher participation and its impact on curriculum implementation. This study will be underpinned by Vygotsky’s Socio-Cultural Theory, which emphasises the role of social interaction and collaboration in learning and knowledge construction, and the Teacher Professionalism Theory, which highlights the importance of teacher agency and participation in curriculum decision-making. A mixed-methods research approach will be employed, using a concurrent triangulation design to collect and interpret both quantitative and qualitative data simultaneously. For the quantitative component, the study will adopt a positivist paradigm, focusing on objective measurement of teachers’ participation through structured surveys. For the qualitative component, an interpretivist paradigm will be used to explore teachers’ experiences, perceptions, and insights through semi-structured interviews. A combination of quantitative surveys and qualitative semi-structured interviews will be used to gather data directly from Life Sciences teachers. Purposive sampling will be employed to select teachers who are directly involved in teaching Life Sciences. The sample will consist of 30 Life Sciences teachers drawn from selected secondary schools in the Vhembe District, which is considered adequate to provide meaningful and context-specific insights. Data analysis will involve descriptive statistics for quantitative data to summarise trends and patterns, while qualitative data will be analysed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes, perceptions, and experiences relating to teacher involvement in curriculum development. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to improving curriculum development processes, enhancing teacher participation, and strengthening the overall quality of Life Sciences education in the Vhembe District.Item Open Access The role of the principals in managing conflict in primary schools in Dzindi Circuit in Vhembe Region in the Limpopo Province(2008-05-10) Rathanya, Tuwani Agnes; Ravhudzulo, M. A.This study is centred on the role of the principals in managing conflict in primary schools in the Dzindi circuit. Qualitative methods which involved the use of in-depth individual and focus group interviews were used in this study. The study revealed that the main causes of conflict in primary schools arc overcrowding in classroom, management style, misunderstanding. and fear of unknown, monitoring system, lack of school policy and lack of proper channels of communication. The study also revealed that principals have crucial role in managing conflict. They become the mediators and the negotiator in managing conflict and reconcile the parties in the conflict. The principals also emphasised that they prevent conflict by forming syndicates in their schools, encouraging teamwork, avoiding gossip and by being a good Iistener.Item Open Access The perception of Grade One teachers towards the use of educational technology in implementation Curriculum 2005: a case in the Northern Province (Region 3)(2000-05-16) Rambani, Tanganani Esther; Bayona, E. L. M.The research study was initiated to investigate the challenges faced by secondary school educators with regard to the management of teenage mothers who receive child support-grant in Sibasa Circuit of the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province of South Africa. The study focused at critical issues that are experienced by educators in managing these teenage mothers in schools. The assumption was that educators' and learners performance is affected the lack of effective and efficient management of learners. In addition, it is assumed that effective and efficient management of these learners may improve their performance as well as that of educators with respect to obtaining satisfactory pass rate. These critical issues include amongst others; capacity of educators in managing teenage mothers who receive child support grant; understanding of roles and responsibilities of educators in the management these learners; causes and effect of absenteeism by teenage mothers; poor performance by teenage mothers; dropouts and performance of learners. Triangulation of quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection was employed to collect both qualitative and quantitative. Ten (10) Schools within the target area namely, Sibasa Circuit in the Vhembe District were sampled and data was collected using a structured questionnaire comprised of both open-ended and closed-ended questions. Key findings of the research study were that educators did not receive proper training regarding the management of teenage mothers at their schools; educators are not familiar with the policies guiding the management of teenage mothers and those lacks of management of learners have impact to the performance of learners that leads to their drop out of school. Some recommendations are that: • Educators should be trained about the management of teenage mothers, receive ongoing training, outline and communicate roles and responsibilities with respect to management of these learners, as well as the ensuring that the accountability of success and failure of the management is made clear to both educators and learners.Item Embargo The attitudes of Pre-service Teachers Towards the Use of Experiments in Teaching and Learning Science(2025-09-05) Mukwevho Shonisani Grace; Kaheru, S. M. J.This study examined the attitude of pre-service teachers towards the use of experiments at a university in South Africa. This study employed a quantitative research design to investigate the attitudes of a sample of 82 pre-service teachers toward the use of experiments in science education. The participants were chosen through stratified random sampling. In a stratified random sample, the population was split into gender-based groups that are mutually exclusive, and random samples were taken from each category. The population comprised all undergraduate pre-service science teachers. All 2nd-year pre-service science teachers made up the study sample size (36 males and 46 females, making a total of 82). The study utilised experiments, survey administration, and questionnaires to gather data on pre-service teachers' attitudes and experiences related to experiments in science education. The data was collected using Google Forms and shared via WhatsApp. The aim was to understand the occurrence of positive and negative attitudes, identify potential patterns, and assess the impact of demographic variables such as gender. The questionnaires were designed to elicit responses regarding pre-service teachers' attitudes, perceptions, and experiences related to experiments in science education. These attitudes were measured and analysed quantitatively using IBM-SPSS, with a focus on understanding the pre-service science teachers attitudes towards the use of experiments by identifying potential patterns and assessing the impact of demographic variables. Virtual or computer laboratory simulations are computer-based tools with wide application possibilities in scientific areas. Virtual laboratories include students doing experiments online, and they require input data to begin the tests. Real laboratory experiments involve tasks that are carried out in the laboratory using a lab manual. Students acquire data in this type of experiment by taking measurements or making observations. Additionally, the lab manual was provided to assist with the carrying out of the experiment. The statistical analysis method used is called inferential statistics. This type of method was used to measure differences between groups (between males and females), assess relationships between variables and test hypotheses. IBM-SPSS version 28 for Windows was used to analyse data that were collected using google form on a weekly basis. Most of the pre-service science teachers shows positive attitudes towards the use of experiments in science education. This confirms that majority of pre-service science teachers identify experiments as an effective teaching tool to make learners understand the curriculum and improve student engagement. According to the findings, female pre-service teachers showed a slightly higher positive attitudes towards the use of experiments than male pre-service teachers. Males only shows the confidence of able to conduct experiments independently and with less help from the demonstrator. Results showed that gender does not significantly influence attitudes towards experimental methods in science education among pre-service teachers, indicating the importance of using lab manuals in scientific areas. The study encourages the importance of having practical science experiments during the teacher education programs to foster positive attitudes and improve teaching effectively.Item Embargo The impact of computer simulations on Grade 11 lrarners conceptual understanding of photosynthesis(2025-09-05) Maluleke, Tinyiko Millicent; Kaheru, S. J. M.; Muthambi, S. K.Conceptual understanding is fundamental in Life Sciences. Computer Simulations (CS) can be used to improve conceptual understanding. This study investigated the use of CS to enhance the conceptual knowledge of Grade 11 learners in photosynthesis compared to the traditional teaching method. The study used the Multimedia Learning Theory (MLT) as its theoretical model and the constructivist approach in MLT. The research paradigm used is positivism since it relies mainly on experimentation. A quantitative research design was used. The study used a quasi-experimental design to observe the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. The population was made up of secondary schools under Elim and Hlanganani Circuits. A purposive sampling procedure was used to sample participants. The sample was drawn from the grade 11 learners from four different schools under the two Circuits. Data was collected through tests and questionnaires. Validity and reliability were applied to ensure the quality and accuracy of research instruments. Data was analyzed and interpreted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29 software. The study investigated the effectiveness of CS in improving the conceptual understanding of grade 11 learners in photosynthesis. The quasi-experimental design involved a sample of 200 learners, 100 as the experimental and 100 as the control group. A pre-test was administered to all learners to assess their prior knowledge of photosynthesis. Thereafter, the experimental group was exposed to CS, while the control group used the traditional teaching method. Both groups were given the post-test to assess their understanding of photosynthesis. A questionnaire was also administered to gather the learner's views on simulations. The result displayed an important improvement in learners' understanding of photosynthesis after using CS and decreased misconceptions. The findings of this study were that CS can be used as a valuable tool in teaching and learning photosynthesis and deliver ideas for the application and design of a simulation-based learning environment.Item Embargo Students academic performance of the bridging mathematics modules at a rural university(2025-09-05) Manthada, Avhatakali; Makhwathana, R. M.; Sinthumule, D. A.Many degrees at the university require a pass in Grade 12 Mathematics as part of their entry requirements. Due to low achievement in Grade 12 Mathematics, students are compelled to start by bridging Mathematics at the university level, which provides a pathway to qualify for specific study programmes and work toward their ideal careers. The study aimed to explore factors that influence students’ academic performance in Mathematics bridging modules. This research utilized a qualitative design and was guided by interpretivist ideology. The study's population consisted of all students, lecturers, and heads of departments involved in the two bridging Mathematics modules. A purposive sampling technique was employed to select participants for the study. A purposive sample of six students (three from each bridging module), two lecturers (one from each bridging module), two heads of departments (one from each bridging module), and two focus groups (one from each group) was used in this study. Data were collected through individual face-to-face and focus group interviews, as well as classroom observations, and were analysed thematically. Time management, attitudes, overcrowding, group work, workload, timetable clashes, and unstable venues were found to influence students’ academic performance. The study recommended strategies that can be used to improve bridging mathematics modules academic performance, such as bridging the modules that students have failed only, dividing large groups into two or three groups, and a change of module contents.Item Embargo Enhancing learners performance in Geographic Information System: a case study of selected schools in Sekhukhune East District(2025-09-05) Mabitsela, Makgobelele Samson; Makhwathana, R. M.; Mashau, T. S.The learners’ failure rate in Further Education and Training is attributed to different factors, including but not limited to the introduction of the Geographical Information System, changes in assessment, redeployment of teachers, and insufficient knowledge of the content by teachers. The purpose of the study was to explore the strategies to enhance the learners’ performance in the Geographical Information System in the Further Education and Training Phase in Sekhukhune East District. The study adopted an interpretivist paradigm and a qualitative research design using case studies, and data were collected through observation, interviews, and document analysis. The population of the study included all learners, Geography curriculum advisors, and all teachers of Geography in Sekhukhune East District. A purposive sample, which consisted of 15 respondents, namely, three curriculum advisors, six learners doing Geography and six Geography teachers, was used. The study adopted qualitative research methods and case study research design. The findings indicated how a particular strategy impacts learners’ performance, such as The Dinaledi Project, incubation, twinning of schools, training teachers on using ICT to enhance GIS lessons, and workshops and seminars for Geography subject advisors and teachers on GIS teaching. Based on the study findings, the researcher recommends that the Department of Basic Education and its stakeholders should collaborate with the private sector so that schools can benefit from GIS data and GIS awareness campaigns and access data easily. Schools should also purchase GIS-compliant Learner Teacher Support Materials to provide guidance and explain GIS easily.Item Embargo The phasing out of commercial subjects in rural Limpopo Secondary Schools in Vhembe West District, South africa(2025-05-16) Maanda, Naledzani; Tshiovhe, T. E.Accounting is one of the commercial subjects that is being phased out by some of the schools in Vhembe West District. The removal of this subject by schools has a negative impact on learners who wish to pursue a career in commerce, business and accounting, and deprives learners of the knowledge and skills that are covered in those subjects. Teachers who are teaching the subjects are also affected. The aim of this study was to investigate the reasons behind the phasing out of commercial subjects. This study adopted a qualitative approach where purposive sampling of educators teaching commercial subjects, school managers and learners were interviewed, and observation techniques were used to collect data. A total of 9 school principals, 9 commercial subject teachers and 18 learners were used in this study. Data analysis was conducted using Tesch’s eight steps in the coding process. The results of this study revealed that the decline of commercial subjects in rural secondary schools was influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Qualitative data analysis showed that government policies and curriculum changes shaped the availability and prioritisation of commercial subjects. School-level factors, such as leadership decisions, resource allocation, and teacher expertise, also played a significant role. Student-level factors, including interest, performance, and career aspirations, further impacted the choice of commercial subjects. Moreover, socioeconomic conditions, access to vocational training, and societal pressures influenced attitudes towards commercial subjects. While teachers generally exhibited positive attitudes towards commercial subjects, school managers maintained negative views due to factors like low performance and perceived lack of prestige. Learners also presented negative attitudes towards commercial subjects, influenced by perceived difficulty, lack of interest, or societal pressures. These interconnected factors contribute to the ongoing challenge of maintaining commercial subjects in rural secondary schools in Limpopo. These results are important to the Department of Education, School Governing Boards (SGBs), learners and society at large. Particularly, the results are useful to the Department of Basic Education since they help inform the planning, design and implementation of policies seeking to salvage the extinction of accounting subjects in rural secondary schools.Item Embargo Exploring the attitudes and perceptions of Foundation Phase teachers towards Inclusive Education in Vhembe West District(2025-05-16) Masikhwa, Rofhiwa; Makhwathana, R. M.The study explored the attitudes and “perceptions of Foundation Phase teachers towards inclusive education. Learners with special needs are often excluded or overlooked in early childhood education, yet it is enshrined in the Constitution of South Africa that every child has a fundamental right to education. An interpretivist paradigm was used in the study. The study was qualitative. The population for this study comprised all Foundation Phase teachers in full-service schools in Vhembe West District. A purposive sample of 6 Foundation Phase teachers from three selected schools was used. Data was collected using interviews, classroom observation and document analysis. Data was analysed thermatically. The study found out that Foundation Phase teachers have negative attitudes and perceptions towards inclusive education, which disadvantages learners with special needs. To improve the attitudes and perceptions of Foundation Phase teachers towards inclusive education, the study recommends the following strategies: ongoing support forf teachers through teacher training, workshops and teacher engagement with parents and caregivers of leaners with special needs. The study also recommends the provision of equipment and facilities for the smooth implementation of inclusive education in schools.Item Open Access The principals' management satyles and educators performance: impact on secondary school learner performance in Vhuronga II Circuit(2008) Makhaga, Mpho Harriet; Kutame, A. P.; Mutshaeni, H. N.A principal's management style determines the performance of learners in a school and thus the effectiveness of the school. The main aim of this study was to investigate how management styles of principals affect learners' performance in secondary schools within the Vhuronga 11 Circuit. This could be of great assistance for principals to improve the way in which they manage their schools and could establish the need for further training on management styles through in-service training. The research is quantitative in nature; questionnaires were used to collect data. The population of the research comprised of principals and educators from all secondary schools within the Vhuronga II Circuit. The main findings of the study are presented according to the analytical categories that guided both the collection and analysis of data. Results show that the principals' management styles have an impact on learner performance. The principal's management styles determine the performance of learners in schools and thus the effectiveness of the school. A crucial implication for school managers is that the performance of learners and the effectiveness of the school are determined by the relationship between principals, teachers (educators), learners and parents. The effectiveness of the school, in particular, depends on how principals relate to their teachers.Item Open Access An investigation into the implementation of the National Policy on District Support Services for effective teaching and learning at school level(2005) Masipa, Mokgadi Maggie; Bayona, E. L. M.This study examines the extent to which education districts in the Limpopo Province support effective teaching and learning at school level, with general applicability to similar education districts in South Africa and elsewhere. The literature reveals that education districts in most developing countries, do not support the participation of principals and educators, and that changes are required to effect higher levels of involvement. The study focuses on how this might be attained. The study makes recommendations on District Support Services which will ensure the involvement of district personnel, principals and educators in transforming schools into effective teaching and learning organisations. The theoretical base is derived from literature review on district support services in South Africa and elsewhere. This review is used to establish common conceptions for the study, and illustrates the extent to which the involvement of all relevant stakeholders is considered desirable and feasible. The analysis also reveals how the policy on district support services in South Africa falls short of complying with the country's local diversity and also with its policy of Outcomes - Based Eduaction which focuses on producing citizens who are equipped with values, knowledge and skills that will enable them to play a productive role in society. The implication of Outcomes - Based Eduaction is that individuals acquire these qualities through active involvement in the learning process. It seeks to create a lifelong learner who is confident and independent, literate and multi-skilled, compassionate, with respect for the environment and the ability to participate in society as a critical and active citizen. The field work was carried out in education institutions falling under Sekgosese Education District in Region Three of Limpopo Province and involved a sample of three hundred and thirty-two education practictioners, divided into five target groups:educators (200), principals (100), circuit managers (4), curriculum advisers (16), and administrators (12). The analysis of the data is composed of three parts. The first concerns the calibre of people who are implementing the policy. The majority of participants still lacked the relevant qualifications required while the need for staff development was identified by many as a major concern. In the second part respondents overwhelmingly indicated the need for clarification on the nature, the role and functions of the education district. In the third part the report shows thata general agreement also exists amongst the respondents for the need to address the constraints experienced at all levels in the implementation of district support services. The study concludes that in a globally competitive environment like the one we have today, it is no longer sufficient to make excellent strategic and operational plans. It is rather crucial for organisations to have systems that will ensure that this plans are effectively achieved. The rationale for this view is based on the argument that this may provide opportunities for learners to extend and develop their personal education competence, critical awareness and shared insight of the role which they and schools are expected to fulfil in their rapidly changing communities. The following key concepts were used throughout the study: • Education District • Curriculum 2005-08-24 Education Policy Reserve Fund Programme (EPRFP) • The School Governing Body (SGB) • National Policy • District Support Services • Effective Teaching and Learning