Utilising the participatory action learning and action research approach in developing school improvement plans in community schools
- Authors: Rangana, Noluvo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Active learning , Action research , School improvement programs, Community schools
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64021 , vital:73640
- Description: This study sought to determine how Participatory Action Learning and Action Research (PALAR) can be used to develop school improvement plans in community schools. The study looks at the Centre for the Community Schools whose objective is to collaboratively develop alternative approaches to school improvement that are relevant and responsive to the realities of under-served community schools. CCS used a PALAR approach in their engagements with multiple stakeholders to develop school improvements, and this study sought to investigate the experience of those multiple stakeholders. Those multiple stakeholders are participants in this study and together we formed an Action Learning Set (ALS). The lessons we learned from their perceptions of the PALAR approach, and the contextual factors that must be considered when using PALAR, led us to draft guidelines that support the use of PALAR when developing school improvement plans in community schools. A literature review was conducted on the main concepts of this study starting on a historical perspective of schools in Europe, the United States of America, and South Africa. This historical perspective gave an international point of view on the thinking of schooling internationally. This international account on the history of schooling was followed by a South African explanation on our history of schooling, looking at education in the apartheid era and education post-apartheid era. This was important in understanding how the concept of school improvement plans came about in South Africa. The literature review also highlighted the importance of school improvement plans and shed light on what a community school is, and what it is not. The study made use of PALAR as a methodology and is located in the Critical paradigm. The research approach was a Critical Participatory Action Research approach, and the study was framed with a combination of the critical pedagogy and the Cultural-Historical Activity Theory. The study made use of Participatory Visual Methods as tools to generate data , in particular, drawings, collages and cellphilms. To analyse the data, we used a thematic analysis and the nominal group technique. The findings of the study reveal that the PALAR approach is an empowering approach that acknowledges diversity and fosters meaningful relationships. The findings also showed that this approach is time consuming, messy and lacks structure. Further to this, the findings of this study suggest that language, coherency, and culture are important factors to consider when making use of the PALAR approach. This study used an African calabash to present a framework on how the PALAR approach can be applied in the African context. Finally, the study proposes guidelines that can be used to develop school improvement plans in community schools and how those guidelines can be used in the African context using the acronym SERV (Situatedness, Empowerment, Roles, and Vulnerability). , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, School of Initial Teacher Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Rangana, Noluvo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Active learning , Action research , School improvement programs, Community schools
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64021 , vital:73640
- Description: This study sought to determine how Participatory Action Learning and Action Research (PALAR) can be used to develop school improvement plans in community schools. The study looks at the Centre for the Community Schools whose objective is to collaboratively develop alternative approaches to school improvement that are relevant and responsive to the realities of under-served community schools. CCS used a PALAR approach in their engagements with multiple stakeholders to develop school improvements, and this study sought to investigate the experience of those multiple stakeholders. Those multiple stakeholders are participants in this study and together we formed an Action Learning Set (ALS). The lessons we learned from their perceptions of the PALAR approach, and the contextual factors that must be considered when using PALAR, led us to draft guidelines that support the use of PALAR when developing school improvement plans in community schools. A literature review was conducted on the main concepts of this study starting on a historical perspective of schools in Europe, the United States of America, and South Africa. This historical perspective gave an international point of view on the thinking of schooling internationally. This international account on the history of schooling was followed by a South African explanation on our history of schooling, looking at education in the apartheid era and education post-apartheid era. This was important in understanding how the concept of school improvement plans came about in South Africa. The literature review also highlighted the importance of school improvement plans and shed light on what a community school is, and what it is not. The study made use of PALAR as a methodology and is located in the Critical paradigm. The research approach was a Critical Participatory Action Research approach, and the study was framed with a combination of the critical pedagogy and the Cultural-Historical Activity Theory. The study made use of Participatory Visual Methods as tools to generate data , in particular, drawings, collages and cellphilms. To analyse the data, we used a thematic analysis and the nominal group technique. The findings of the study reveal that the PALAR approach is an empowering approach that acknowledges diversity and fosters meaningful relationships. The findings also showed that this approach is time consuming, messy and lacks structure. Further to this, the findings of this study suggest that language, coherency, and culture are important factors to consider when making use of the PALAR approach. This study used an African calabash to present a framework on how the PALAR approach can be applied in the African context. Finally, the study proposes guidelines that can be used to develop school improvement plans in community schools and how those guidelines can be used in the African context using the acronym SERV (Situatedness, Empowerment, Roles, and Vulnerability). , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, School of Initial Teacher Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Exploring career information through developmental contextual focus groups with youth from disadvantaged backgrounds
- Authors: Phala, Phorogohlo Modipadi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Vocational guidance , Educational counseling , Focus groups , Action research , Youth -- South Africa -- Social conditions -- 1994- , Parental influences – South Africa , Vocational guidance -- Parent participation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/130594 , vital:36442
- Description: This study investigates the importance of initiating career exploration discussions with young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, using the developmental-contextual framework of career development by Vondracek, Lerner & Schulenburg (1986). This model stresses the dynamic relationship between an individual, the ever-changing environment and how each influences the other. Based upon an earlier study by Spencer (1999), this study aims to explore the developmental-contextual model as the basis of successive group discussions at a pivotal moment in the lives of the youth from disadvantaged backgrounds. In addition, it aims to understand individuals’ perceptions of career education and the influences on career decision-making and aspiration. Data were collected through setting up and running a focus group session once a week over a period of five weeks, in which different career-related topics were discussed. The sample consisted of nine unemployed students who were currently not in a tertiary institution between the ages of 18-25 years. The findings indicated a noteworthy need for more relevant career interventions to be investigated and implemented for the diverse South African population. The study’s findings demonstrated that individuals might be more open to exploring career development through group rather than individual counselling. It was found that parents are the main career influencers in their children’s lives. Mothers were experienced as role models, supporters and encouragers while fathers were experienced as absent and unsupportive, playing little or no role in their children’s lives. The participants found this form of career exploration appealing as it allowed for peer consultation and the freedom to discuss career issues in a non-judgemental setting.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Phala, Phorogohlo Modipadi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Vocational guidance , Educational counseling , Focus groups , Action research , Youth -- South Africa -- Social conditions -- 1994- , Parental influences – South Africa , Vocational guidance -- Parent participation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/130594 , vital:36442
- Description: This study investigates the importance of initiating career exploration discussions with young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, using the developmental-contextual framework of career development by Vondracek, Lerner & Schulenburg (1986). This model stresses the dynamic relationship between an individual, the ever-changing environment and how each influences the other. Based upon an earlier study by Spencer (1999), this study aims to explore the developmental-contextual model as the basis of successive group discussions at a pivotal moment in the lives of the youth from disadvantaged backgrounds. In addition, it aims to understand individuals’ perceptions of career education and the influences on career decision-making and aspiration. Data were collected through setting up and running a focus group session once a week over a period of five weeks, in which different career-related topics were discussed. The sample consisted of nine unemployed students who were currently not in a tertiary institution between the ages of 18-25 years. The findings indicated a noteworthy need for more relevant career interventions to be investigated and implemented for the diverse South African population. The study’s findings demonstrated that individuals might be more open to exploring career development through group rather than individual counselling. It was found that parents are the main career influencers in their children’s lives. Mothers were experienced as role models, supporters and encouragers while fathers were experienced as absent and unsupportive, playing little or no role in their children’s lives. The participants found this form of career exploration appealing as it allowed for peer consultation and the freedom to discuss career issues in a non-judgemental setting.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The implementation of a developmental-contextual framework for young adults’ career explorations
- Authors: Roberson, Natalie Georgia
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Vocational guidance -- South Africa , Focus groups , Action research , Youth -- South Africa -- Social conditions -- 1994- , Self-Directed Search Questionnaire , Occupational aptitude tests -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/114895 , vital:34053
- Description: Career development theory and counselling practices in South Africa, which have traditionally utilised imported theory, have long been and continue to be criticised as being unsuitable in contexts different to those in which they were developed. In light of this, the aim of this study is to customise and trial the Vondracek, Lerner, and Schulenberg (1986) Developmental-Contextual Framework of career development with a group of employment-seeking young adults at a local community-based setting, as the basis of a career development intervention. Research questions asked were ‘In what ways is the examination and discussion of developmental-contextual factors of the individual facilitative of career exploration, in addition to seeking to identify contextual factors that influence career thinking and associated decision making. In doing so, this study aims to contribute to the existing literature on the career development of South Africans. Focus group methodology, within an overarching framework of collaborative action research, was employed. The approach to career exploration here was that of peer learning through group discussion of developmental-contextual factors of the individual. Data were generated through pre-intervention questionnaires, collaborative action research cycles, participatory observation, focus group discussions, and post-interventionist semi-structured individual interviews. Template Analysis was used for the thematic organisation and analysis of the data. Findings were that the intervention facilitated increased self-knowledge in relation to career development, increased knowledge of work and careers, and enhanced career planning abilities. Findings further highlighted the limitations of imported career development theories and the importance of the utilisation and development of local career assessment instruments. The group setting was found to be of value in facilitating self-reflection, a source of motivation and a valuable source of career-related information.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Roberson, Natalie Georgia
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Vocational guidance -- South Africa , Focus groups , Action research , Youth -- South Africa -- Social conditions -- 1994- , Self-Directed Search Questionnaire , Occupational aptitude tests -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/114895 , vital:34053
- Description: Career development theory and counselling practices in South Africa, which have traditionally utilised imported theory, have long been and continue to be criticised as being unsuitable in contexts different to those in which they were developed. In light of this, the aim of this study is to customise and trial the Vondracek, Lerner, and Schulenberg (1986) Developmental-Contextual Framework of career development with a group of employment-seeking young adults at a local community-based setting, as the basis of a career development intervention. Research questions asked were ‘In what ways is the examination and discussion of developmental-contextual factors of the individual facilitative of career exploration, in addition to seeking to identify contextual factors that influence career thinking and associated decision making. In doing so, this study aims to contribute to the existing literature on the career development of South Africans. Focus group methodology, within an overarching framework of collaborative action research, was employed. The approach to career exploration here was that of peer learning through group discussion of developmental-contextual factors of the individual. Data were generated through pre-intervention questionnaires, collaborative action research cycles, participatory observation, focus group discussions, and post-interventionist semi-structured individual interviews. Template Analysis was used for the thematic organisation and analysis of the data. Findings were that the intervention facilitated increased self-knowledge in relation to career development, increased knowledge of work and careers, and enhanced career planning abilities. Findings further highlighted the limitations of imported career development theories and the importance of the utilisation and development of local career assessment instruments. The group setting was found to be of value in facilitating self-reflection, a source of motivation and a valuable source of career-related information.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
“Like walking barefoot on the gravel road”: the experience of caring for a child with physical disabilities
- Authors: Ndlovu, Nokanyo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: PhotoVoice , Photography in the social sciences , Action research , Children with disabilites -- Care -- South Africa , Children with disabilites -- Care -- South Africa -- Case studies , Caregivers -- South Africa -- Case studies , Caregivers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/72479 , vital:30057
- Description: The aim of this study was to develop an understanding of the experiences of caregivers of children with physical disabilities and to explore ways of improving this experience. Although there is a considerable amount of international research on the experiences of caring for children with disabilities, the focus of the methods of enquiry has mainly been on knowledge production and there is limited research conducted using an approach like participatory action research. Secondly, in South Africa, there is still inadequate information regarding the experiences of caregivers who are from low socio-economic backgrounds. It is for these reasons that the current study, which employed PhotoVoice, a participatory research data collection tool, to explore the lived experiences of caregivers of children with physical disabilities from low socio-economic backgrounds was embarked upon. The research methodology comprised two main parts: firstly, a study of relevant literature on the subject matter, in order to gain in-depth understanding of the field; and secondly, qualitative data collection, using PhotoVoice. A sample of six participants between the ages of 22-57 years was selected through purposive and convenience sampling. Cameras were distributed to participants and after processing of images narratives were shared around selected photographs and this was later followed by focused group discussions. This analysis process provided two master themes, which are supported by subordinate themes. The master themes are: 1) The challenges associated with the caregiving experience, 2) The positive side of the caregiving experience. Participants experienced a lack of resources, challenges of mobility, the hopelessness of the situation, loneliness of the experience and the financial burden of caring for a child with physical disabilities as challenges associated with the caregiving role. Whereas the joy brought about by support from family, the health service providers and the Association for People with Physical Disabilities personnel; precious moments shared with the child; and personal growth were associated with the positive side of the caregiving experience. These findings support and expand on the growing knowledge of caring for children with physical disabilities. This research culminated in a sharing of the narratives with stakeholders by caregivers themselves as a way of seeking to influence policy, enhance their well-being and engage in a discussion of exploring ways of improving their experience.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ndlovu, Nokanyo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: PhotoVoice , Photography in the social sciences , Action research , Children with disabilites -- Care -- South Africa , Children with disabilites -- Care -- South Africa -- Case studies , Caregivers -- South Africa -- Case studies , Caregivers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/72479 , vital:30057
- Description: The aim of this study was to develop an understanding of the experiences of caregivers of children with physical disabilities and to explore ways of improving this experience. Although there is a considerable amount of international research on the experiences of caring for children with disabilities, the focus of the methods of enquiry has mainly been on knowledge production and there is limited research conducted using an approach like participatory action research. Secondly, in South Africa, there is still inadequate information regarding the experiences of caregivers who are from low socio-economic backgrounds. It is for these reasons that the current study, which employed PhotoVoice, a participatory research data collection tool, to explore the lived experiences of caregivers of children with physical disabilities from low socio-economic backgrounds was embarked upon. The research methodology comprised two main parts: firstly, a study of relevant literature on the subject matter, in order to gain in-depth understanding of the field; and secondly, qualitative data collection, using PhotoVoice. A sample of six participants between the ages of 22-57 years was selected through purposive and convenience sampling. Cameras were distributed to participants and after processing of images narratives were shared around selected photographs and this was later followed by focused group discussions. This analysis process provided two master themes, which are supported by subordinate themes. The master themes are: 1) The challenges associated with the caregiving experience, 2) The positive side of the caregiving experience. Participants experienced a lack of resources, challenges of mobility, the hopelessness of the situation, loneliness of the experience and the financial burden of caring for a child with physical disabilities as challenges associated with the caregiving role. Whereas the joy brought about by support from family, the health service providers and the Association for People with Physical Disabilities personnel; precious moments shared with the child; and personal growth were associated with the positive side of the caregiving experience. These findings support and expand on the growing knowledge of caring for children with physical disabilities. This research culminated in a sharing of the narratives with stakeholders by caregivers themselves as a way of seeking to influence policy, enhance their well-being and engage in a discussion of exploring ways of improving their experience.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Organisation development: a formative evaluation of an OD intervention
- Routledge, Michael Henry Collis
- Authors: Routledge, Michael Henry Collis
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Organizational change , Organizational behavior , Action research , Psychology, Industrial
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3044 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002553 , Organizational change , Organizational behavior , Action research , Psychology, Industrial
- Description: Rapid changes and increased competitiveness in business environments, together with greater demands by employees for improvements in the quality of their work lives, make it necessary for organisations to review their operating styles and functions. Many companies have found an answer in Organisation Development (OD) which focuses on ways in which people associated with organisations learn to diagnose and solve those problems which limit organisational effectiveness. The present study evaluates the progress of an OD intervention underway in an organisation in Zimbabwe. A formative evaluation is undertaken during an OD intervention. It is designed to assess the change effort's progress in such a way that steps can subsequently be taken to correct, modify or enhance such aspects of the intervention as may be determined by the evaluation. The study begins with a review of the company's original and revised Mission Statements as well as the present and last two sets of corporate three-year plans. These documents inform the construction of an interview guide. Individual interviews are then used to ascertain attitudes of respondents to the OD intervention and the changes it is bringing about. In addition the interviews are used to gauge the degree of commitment of respondents to the intervention. All the senior managers in the organisation are interviewed as well as the holding company's chief executive and the external consultant facilitating the intervention. The study records fundamental changes taking place in the attitudes of top managers and the first signs of an impact of these attitude changes on the formulation of company plans. Management styles and the culture of the organisation also show some change and influence on routine business operations. In addition there are early indications of an alteration of behaviour at other levels in the organisation. Business outcomes are improving and it is proposed that the benefits are due to fortuitous market developments assisted to an extent by the culture and attitude changes brought about by the OD intervention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1999
- Authors: Routledge, Michael Henry Collis
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: Organizational change , Organizational behavior , Action research , Psychology, Industrial
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3044 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002553 , Organizational change , Organizational behavior , Action research , Psychology, Industrial
- Description: Rapid changes and increased competitiveness in business environments, together with greater demands by employees for improvements in the quality of their work lives, make it necessary for organisations to review their operating styles and functions. Many companies have found an answer in Organisation Development (OD) which focuses on ways in which people associated with organisations learn to diagnose and solve those problems which limit organisational effectiveness. The present study evaluates the progress of an OD intervention underway in an organisation in Zimbabwe. A formative evaluation is undertaken during an OD intervention. It is designed to assess the change effort's progress in such a way that steps can subsequently be taken to correct, modify or enhance such aspects of the intervention as may be determined by the evaluation. The study begins with a review of the company's original and revised Mission Statements as well as the present and last two sets of corporate three-year plans. These documents inform the construction of an interview guide. Individual interviews are then used to ascertain attitudes of respondents to the OD intervention and the changes it is bringing about. In addition the interviews are used to gauge the degree of commitment of respondents to the intervention. All the senior managers in the organisation are interviewed as well as the holding company's chief executive and the external consultant facilitating the intervention. The study records fundamental changes taking place in the attitudes of top managers and the first signs of an impact of these attitude changes on the formulation of company plans. Management styles and the culture of the organisation also show some change and influence on routine business operations. In addition there are early indications of an alteration of behaviour at other levels in the organisation. Business outcomes are improving and it is proposed that the benefits are due to fortuitous market developments assisted to an extent by the culture and attitude changes brought about by the OD intervention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1999
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