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Community involvement in farm schools in the Pietermaritzburg areaDuma, Martin Anthony Nkosinathi 03 1900 (has links)
This study is based on a need for community involvement in farm schools to enhance effective teaching and efficient learning. The rationale behind it was to determine the current state of community involvement in farm schools in the Pietermaritzburg area, with a view to determining the extent to which the current community i nvolvement, namely, the active participation of parents, teachers, the farmer, the church, the state and the private sector could be extended on a large scale.
The study revealed that the community involvement dimension of schooling is central to the teaching profession. If neglected, no effective teaching and efficient learning can materialise. The role of the farm school principal in the realisation of this goal is indispensable. The empirical survey and literature revealed that farm school principals can address the serious shortcoming concerning the participation of community members in the affairs of farm schools. / Educational Studies / M. Ed. (Comparative Education)
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A critical investigation of the role of community learning centres in mitigating gender disparities in the Cacadu district of the Eastern CapeTawana, Xoliswa 02 1900 (has links)
This study investigated issues of gender discrimination in the Cacadu district of the Eastern Cape and the possible role that Community Learning Centres could play in mitigating gender disparities in this particular district. The aim of the study was to recommend ways in which Community Learning Centres could assist people in mitigating gender disparities in the Cacadu district of the Eastern Cape. The study examined scholarly and professional publications, both theoretical and empirical, that support or challenge the proposed focal area. The study was underpinned by post-colonial feminism. Contrary to Western feminism, post-colonial feminism is primarily concerned with the representation of women in once colonized countries.The paradigm deemed to be the most appropriate in undergirding this study was a post-colonial indigenous paradigm which can be seen as context based and inclusive of all knowledge systems. The research approach was qualitative and the research design adopted for the study was phenomenological. Two Community Learning Centres (Xola and Zodwa) located in a rural and an urban area respectively in the Cacadu district of the Eastern Cape were selected by purposive sampling. Data gathering was conducted through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Three adult educators volunteered to participate in individual interviews and twenty-four adult learners volunteered to participate in focus group discussions. Findings indicated that Community Learning Centres in their attempt to promote equity and redress do not help people mitigate gender disparities in their daily lives in the Cacadu district of the Eastern Cape. Based on the findings, it was found that gender disparities emanate not only in the home, but also in Community Learning Centres in the Cacadu district of the Eastern Cape. Finally, strategies were identified in the form of educational practices, processes and developments to assist people to mitigate gender disparities in their daily lives in the Cacadu district of the Eastern Cape. Such educational strategies should be characterised by fairness, equality and the values embedded in social justice with reference to the role of women in society. / Educational Foundations / D. Ed. (Socio-Education)
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The LEGACY Project: A Case Study of Civic Capacity Building and Transformative Educational Leadership in a Community-based Academic Enrichment ProgramDidlick-Davis, Celeste Renee' 19 April 2016 (has links)
No description available.
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<b>EDUCATION OF QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS IN ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS</b>Rebekah Lais McCartney (18445788) 28 April 2024 (has links)
<p dir="ltr">Engineering Technology (ET) programs are pivotal in preparing graduates for the demands of the modern workforce, particularly in quality management systems (QMS). This study examines the alignment between QMS knowledge and experience gained by graduates in ABET-accredited ET programs and the expectations of industry. Through a dual-survey approach, targeting both industry leaders and academic educators, the research elucidates current QMS practices in industry, the scope of QMS education, and the resulting preparedness of graduates for professional roles. Findings indicate a discernible gap between industry expectations and current academic offerings in QMS education. While industry professionals rely on established QMS frameworks such as ISO 9001 and Lean Six Sigma, academic programs often limit their coverage to theoretical underpinnings rather than hands-on, practical applications. This discrepancy highlights the need for a more robust, application-oriented curriculum that bridges theoretical knowledge with real-world practice. Recommendations include a call for greater integration of practical QMS training within academic programs and stronger partnerships between academia and industry to foster educational content that aligns with professional QMS applications.</p>
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The participation of rural based teachers in community development activities in the Chivi district, Masvingo, ZimbabweNtini, Edmore 30 November 2006 (has links)
Too often, literature on participation in community development is void of the rationale for the participation of teachers; the roles they may play; factors for and against their participation; and strategies for inviting and sustaining their participation. This study examines what could be done to ensure the participation of rural based teachers in community development activities, by exploring these issues. A qualitative design and purposeful sampling are used. The sample consists of information-rich informants from the following five categories: officials of the Rural District Council, non-governmental organisation workers, rural based school teachers, Village Development Committee Chairpersons, and ordinary community members. Interviewing is used as the major instrument of data collection. The study reveals that rural based teachers should participate in community development activities, since they have a wide knowledge base and transferable skills, and they are part of and trusted by the community. It reveals that rural based teachers' participation is deterred by political factors, lack of supportive policies, attitudes, conservativeness, lack of specialized training, and labour issues. Twenty two roles are identified for rural based teachers in community development activities. Strategies for inviting them to participate are: the use of policy, change of attitudes, use of media campaigns, training, and inclusion of community development in tertiary education in general, and teacher education in particular. Strategies for sustaining their participation emerge as: the use of incentives, free time or days off and holding responsible offices. Sixteen recommendations are finally presented. / DEVELOPMENT STUDIES / MA (DEVELOPMENT STUD)
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The participation of rural based teachers in community development activities in the Chivi district, Masvingo, ZimbabweNtini, Edmore 30 November 2006 (has links)
Too often, literature on participation in community development is void of the rationale for the participation of teachers; the roles they may play; factors for and against their participation; and strategies for inviting and sustaining their participation. This study examines what could be done to ensure the participation of rural based teachers in community development activities, by exploring these issues. A qualitative design and purposeful sampling are used. The sample consists of information-rich informants from the following five categories: officials of the Rural District Council, non-governmental organisation workers, rural based school teachers, Village Development Committee Chairpersons, and ordinary community members. Interviewing is used as the major instrument of data collection. The study reveals that rural based teachers should participate in community development activities, since they have a wide knowledge base and transferable skills, and they are part of and trusted by the community. It reveals that rural based teachers' participation is deterred by political factors, lack of supportive policies, attitudes, conservativeness, lack of specialized training, and labour issues. Twenty two roles are identified for rural based teachers in community development activities. Strategies for inviting them to participate are: the use of policy, change of attitudes, use of media campaigns, training, and inclusion of community development in tertiary education in general, and teacher education in particular. Strategies for sustaining their participation emerge as: the use of incentives, free time or days off and holding responsible offices. Sixteen recommendations are finally presented. / DEVELOPMENT STUDIES / MA (DEVELOPMENT STUD)
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Socio-economic development through skills training for poverty reduction : an exploratory study of rural women in Mthatha, South AfricaTawiah, Sampson 02 1900 (has links)
Women constitute the largest proportion of the rural adult South African population. The rural areas host women with the lowest levels of education and skills training in the country. The lack of basic education and skills has resulted in many of them being marginalised, rejected and discriminated against, unemployed and living in poverty. These social problems have serious negative effects on them and their families, which is why the educational provision of Adult and Community Education and Training in South Africa is a significant tool for their socio-economic advancement. This educational provision is aimed at empowering adults in general, and rural women in particular, with the necessary livelihood skills to lead productive lives and consequently the study sought to investigate the socio-economic lives of rural women through skills training for poverty reduction in the Mthatha area of South Africa. A qualitative research approach and an exploratory design were employed for the study. A sample of 35 participants, comprising 20 female learners, 4 educators, and 7 former learners were in addition to 4 learners selected for a focus group discussion. Other instruments with which data were collected constituted in-depth individual interviews and documentary analysis. The theories underpinning the study are Maslow‘s theory of motivation, empowerment theory and critical pedagogy. Among others, the findings revealed the absence of adequate resources with which to empower rural women and consequently the study recommends that Adult and Community Education and Training providers include programmes that can up-skill rural women based at community learning centres in an effort to enhance their economic development. Community learning centres must be fully resourced in terms of facilities and appropriate learning tools to render Adult and Community Education and Training a beneficial educational intervention for these rurally based women. / Educational Studies / Ph. D. (Socio-Education)
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Determining Aspects of Excellence in Teaching Undergraduate Mathematics: Unpacking Practicing Educators' Specialized KnowledgeJosiah M Banks (19173649) 18 July 2024 (has links)
<p dir="ltr">This dissertation explores the intricate dynamics between the self-perceptions of undergraduate mathematics (UM) educators and their conceptions of excellent teaching practices conducive to student learning. Employing a sequential mixed methods approach, the study addresses two primary research questions. First, it investigates educators' self-perceptions within the realm of UM teaching, examining potential variances based on educators' Professional Status and Educational Institution (PSEI) affiliations and experience levels. Second, it delves into educators' perspectives on aspects of excellent UM teaching, scrutinizing potential disparities rooted in PSEI affiliations and experience levels, while also exploring the manifestations of Mathematics Teachers' Specialized Knowledge (MTSK) and teaching self-concept within these descriptors.</p><p dir="ltr">Drawing upon Shavelson's self-concept (1976) framework and Carrillo and colleagues' (2018) MTSK framework, data collection involved a Likert-style questionnaire augmented by open-ended inquiries, followed by qualitative case studies featuring eight participants from diverse Carnegie classifications. Findings demonstrate educators' overall confidence in their teaching abilities, with notable discrepancies observed among educators from associate's colleges and doctoral universities. Through thematic analysis, key dimensions of excellent teaching emerged, including active learning, student engagement, problem-solving, and positive learning environments.</p><p dir="ltr">This study yields implications for educational practice and institutional policy. Educators can leverage identified themes to inform professional development initiatives tailored to enhance UM teaching effectiveness. Furthermore, the validated instrument offers institutions a means to assess educators' confidence levels, facilitating targeted support within mathematics departments.</p><p dir="ltr">In conclusion, this dissertation contributes valuable insights into the multifaceted interplay between educators' self-perceptions, teaching practices, and student learning outcomes within the context of UM instruction.</p>
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Factors Influencing Indiana Residents' Level of Interest in Engaging with Purdue UniversityAshley E Rice (6615803) 15 May 2019 (has links)
The land-grant university system was founded in the 19th century as a public means to help improve people’s everyday lives. A century and a half later, the challenges that the public faces to live a quality life are constantly changing, creating a need for the land-grant system to respond and adapt to continue to fulfill its mission. While the literature contains a wealth of conceptual papers addressing the role and mission of land-grant universities, relatively few papers could be found that reported empirical data or proposed and tested metrics for public engagement constructs. The current study sought to address this void in the literature through the investigation of factors influencing Indiana residents’ level of interest in engaging with Purdue University. Mail survey methods were used in which up to three contacts were made with adult members of 4,500 Indiana households identified through address-based sampling. Stratified random sampling was employed to ensure adequate rural household participation for other project purposes. Usable responses were received from 1,003 households representing 87 Indiana counties for a total response rate of 26%. <br><div><br> </div><div> A theoretical perspective was developed from Public Sphere Theory and the social science writings of Jurgen Habermas and Alexis de Tocqueville. Descriptive findings revealed some to moderate concerns about community and social issues such as affordable health care, violent crime, pollution and prescription drug abuse. Moderate levels of anomie, or perceived social disconnectedness, were also reported by respondents. Several items tapped respondents’ past levels of interaction with and current perceptions of Purdue University. Nearly a fifth of respondents reported interacting with Purdue University by having visited a website for news or information, followed by interacting with a Purdue University Extension professional. Regarding perceptions of Purdue University, the results of this study revealed relative consensus among respondents that Purdue University makes a positive contribution to the state of Indiana through its educational, research and outreach programs. For a majority of the perceptual items regarding Purdue University, more than one-third of the respondents neither agreed nor disagreed with the statement, suggesting some areas in which the university might improve its reputational standing with Indiana residents in the future. Nearly one-quarter to about half of the respondents indicated interest in topical areas addressed by Purdue Extension programs as well as an interest in engaging with the university. Respondents reported the highest levels of interest in free Extension programs in their local area, followed by the topics of science and technology, health and well-being, and gardening.</div><div><br> </div><div> A predictive model of respondent interest in engaging with Purdue University was developed and tested using binary logistic regression procedures. The model was shown to be of modest utility in accounting for variance in respondent interest in engaging with Purdue University, explaining 12% to 16% of total variance. Past interaction with Purdue University, perceived level of concern for social and community issues, and highest level of education were the strongest predictors in the model.</div><div><br> </div><div> The current research was completed in 2019 as Purdue University celebrated its 150th anniversary. Results and implications of this study provide important insight into current engagement levels, concerns and perceptions of residents within the state of Indiana, whom the university is mandated to serve. One of the study’s primary contributions is the establishment of baseline engagement data on current levels of Indiana residents’ interest in engaging with Purdue University on selected topics. Findings from this study could be of benefit to university administrators, faculty, staff and Extension professionals in assessing and improving future programming and setting strategic priorities. This study also adds to the conceptual and empirical body of literature, which may help inform future public engagement efforts at other land-grant universities. Periodic social science and public opinion research is needed to keep pace with the changing needs and perceptions of Indiana residents. Different data collection modes should be utilized to reach more audience segments and add to the growing knowledge base of public engagement.</div>
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