The aim of this research study was to investigate the early childhood teachers&rsquo / perceptions about their roles in the development of self-discipline in children. In order to specify this aim, the research question which asked &ldquo / How do early childhood teachers perceive their role in the development of self-discipline?&rdquo / was investigated. Current study was conducted based on qualitative research methodology. In order to investigate the aim, a case including seven early childhood teachers working at the same institution was reached. The main data collection instrument was an interview protocol consisting of two parts: vignettes and interview questions. The instrument included questions related to the meaning and importance of self-discipline, and how to support it in classroom environment, and was developed according to observations and related literature. Additionally this instrument was pilot tested with six early childhood teachers. The interviews for the main study were conducted between December 2009 and January 2010. According to the findings, early childhood teachers were aware of self-discipline, its importance, and its development. However, some strategies which were being used by the teachers should be discussed with them in terms of relatedness of those strategies with self-discipline.

Problem behaviours amongst adolescent learners continue to affect the goals of effective education. The current study sought to investigate adolescents’ perspectives of discipline problems at a secondary school in Gauteng. A mixed method research design was followed during which questionnaires, focus groups and interviews directed the empirical investigation. The findings revealed two areas for addressing and improving the discipline problems of the secondary school, namely improving extrinsic factors and improving the current discipline system. Based on the findings, it was suggested that the school encourage greater parent involvement and improve parent-teacher communication. Creating a positive school identity and developing teachers further was proposed. An improved discipline system based on a positive learning approach was recommended. This included clarifying the discipline system to all role players, standardising discipline procedures throughout the school and improving follow up procedures regarding learner discipline. / Psychology of Education / M. Ed. (Guidance and Counselling)

Problem behaviours amongst adolescent learners continue to affect the goals of effective education. The current study sought to investigate adolescents’ perspectives of discipline problems at a secondary school in Gauteng. A mixed method research design was followed during which questionnaires, focus groups and interviews directed the empirical investigation. The findings revealed two areas for addressing and improving the discipline problems of the secondary school, namely improving extrinsic factors and improving the current discipline system. Based on the findings, it was suggested that the school encourage greater parent involvement and improve parent-teacher communication. Creating a positive school identity and developing teachers further was proposed. An improved discipline system based on a positive learning approach was recommended. This included clarifying the discipline system to all role players, standardising discipline procedures throughout the school and improving follow up procedures regarding learner discipline. / Psychology of Education / M. Ed. (Guidance and Counselling)