Dissertation (Masters in Education (Education and Social Sciences))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2009 / The purpose of this study was to explore the impact that sensory processing had on the learning and development of two Grade R learners that experience Asperger's Syndrome. The present study is grounded in theories originating from the works of Piaget (1973 & 1978), Vygotsky (1978 & 1993), Feuerstein (1980 & 1991) and Erikson (1950). The informal, flexible education experienced in Grade R classes reflects both the OBE curriculum and inclusive education systems found in South Africa. The main medium of learning is through sensory experiences, therefore it was necessary to research how two AS learners would learn and develop and explore their world through their senses. This research approach was purely qualitative. Multi-methods of data collection, particularly interviews and observations were used. The sample size was two independent case studies, using learners aged between five and seven, who had been clinically diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome (AS). The two AS learners both attended mainstream Grade R classes and both had facilitators. The findings of the study answer the key research question: “What is the impact of sensory processing difficulties on the learning and development of two learners experiencing Asperger's Syndrome in Grade R?” The results confirmed the impact sensory processing had on the learning and development of learners experiencing AS. The learners had difficulty learning new skills and concepts. Although they were both bright learners, they were perceived as underachievers. Identifying these sensory difficulties and creating awareness among educators, can have a positive impact on these learners' adaptability in a mainstream school environment. This study recommends that early intervention with AS learners is vital for their future learning and development. The interpretation of body language and social skills of normal learners needs to be taught to learners with AS so they can begin to socialise with other learners positively. Ebersöhn & Eloff (2006) suggest that knowledge of asset-based good practices should be shared with educators and caregivers, so that they can focus on the AS learners' strengths and positive character traits. The multi-disciplinary team need to work together to offer support to these learners assisting them to develop to their full potential

M.Ed. / This study was undertaken out of concern for the many youths in the community of Lotus Gardens who were involved in deviant and delinquent behaviour in and out of school. The findings of the essay describe possible factors that placed these youth at risk of dropping out of school and impacts on their social and emotional development. Their views regarding out-of-school programmes were investigated, as well as the different types of community programmes that could be introduced for the remediation and support of at risk youth. The research was carried out with seven at risk youth from the Lotus Gardens Secondary School who also resided in Lotus Gardens. The seven participants were interviewed in a focus group as well as individually. The data collected was analysed through open coding. The analysis brought to the fore numerous insights. The first was, that various factors combined to place youth at risk of dropping out of school. These could be broadly related to the family, the school, the environment, and the influence of peers. The second important insight, was that the entire school system needed to change to effectively address the complex problems faced by at risk youth. This included a change in the attitude of teachers and an amendment to the curriculum. The school itself, in future, needs to become more community orientated and function as a community facility to eliminate some root causes which place youth at risk. Thirdly, the inquiry showed that there was overwhelming support for the idea of community education programmes, not only to support at risk youth, but to assist youth in general, and parents and the community as a whole. The study revealed that through these programmes, stronger family ties would develop, thereby laying the foundation for a sense of community. This would address some of the factors that place youth at risk and may even eliminate others. In the light of the above analysis it is recommended that, from a community education perspective, the concept of a core-plus school, be given serious consideration. If considered, it could guide the community in addressing some of the social problems faced by the community, which would encompass the problem of at risk youth. Furthermore, in the long term, it would empower the community to address other social problems they might face in today's decadent world.

This study investigated which childhood behaviours and emotions are considered "acceptable" and "not problematic" by Black isiZulu speaking parents and caregivers. It further investigated which childhood behaviours and emotions were considered "unacceptable" and "problematic" by Black isiZulu speaking parents and caregivers (N=97). Data were collected by the use of the Behaviour Screening Questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of 39 words describing the way children of 4 or 5 years feel and behave. The selection of the health domains included in the questionnaire was guided by the research on developmental psychopathology, the dimensional approach. The item format in the questionnaire was categorical: Not concerning, concerning and very concerning. The collected data were ordinal in nature, thus necessitated the utilization of non-parametric method of analysis. Data were then analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics (Chi square). Findings indicated that 88% of the behaviours and emotions listed on the questionnaire were considered to be "unacceptable" and "problematic" by the participants in the study. These were largely the externalizing types of behaviours (57%). Thirty-two percent of these were internalizing types of behaviours and emotions. Only 11,6% of the behaviours and emotions listed on the questionnaire were considered to be "acceptable" and "not problematic" for 4 or 5 year old children. The findings of this study confirm the findings of previous research conducted both internationally and locally on the types of behaviours and emotions considered to be "problematic" and "unacceptable" as well as those behaviours and emotions considered to be "acceptable" and "non-problematic" by parents and caregivers in 4 or 5 year old children. / Thesis (M.A.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2003.

In the light of increasing concerns related to violence in the South African society, this study sought to explore the nature of aggression amongst Grade R learners through the voices of principals, phase heads, educators, parents and support staff. Bandura’s Social Learning Theory, Social Learning Cognitive Theory and Bronfenbrenner’ Bio-ecological Theory provided the theoretical lens for this qualitative study. The study was undertaken in two primary schools and one nursery school with 22 participants in the Johannesburg area in South Africa. Data was produced through interviews and questionnaires. The findings show that the nature of aggression is complex, multi-dimensional and contextual. Aggressive behaviour was conceptualised as interconnected physical and emotional states coupled with the verbal competence to act out aggressive behaviour. This was triggered by a number of factors included in the genetic and environmental domains. The exploration of approaches, methods and lines of intervention suggest the need for multi-stakeholders to work together for holistic and responsive interventions. These findings contributed to the development of the Tree of Nurturance in order to unravel a contextualised site-based model for intervention to address aggressive behaviour. / Early Childhood Education / D. Ed. (Socio-Education)

Throughout the world, the need to protect children’s rights has proliferated through international conventions and national laws, therefore, parents add immense value as participants in diversion programmes. The dearth of research studies on parents as participants in diversion programmes is documented internationally and in South Africa. This is an exploratory-descriptive- contextual and phenomenological study that is steeped in qualitative research approach. The study was guided by Risk-Need Responsivity Model for offender assessment and rehabilitation (Bonta & Wormith, 2010). Data collection was done through semi-structured, face-to-face interviews. Snow-ball and purposive sampling were used. Prior to actual data collection, pilot testing was conducted to determine the validity and reliability of the data collection tool. Data was analysed through thematic content in accordance with Creswell’s (2014:196) six steps of data analysis and verified according to Lincoln and Guba’s model of 1994 and Yin’s 2018 model. In order to ensure adherence to ethical prescripts, the following were applied throughout the study; informed consent, confidentiality, anonymity, beneficence, management of information and debriefing. The key finding is that parents are not involved in the diversion prorammes. This study will close literature gap whilst it recommends development of policy guidelines for parental involvement in diversion. / Social Work / M.A.(Social Work)

This dissertation focuses on the expulsion of learners from secondary schools in the Western Cape. Learners with behavioural and emotional problems are disruptive in class. They antagonise teachers and challenge the code of conduct of the school. Expelling learners has far reaching consequences for education and society. Although official expulsions have remained constant the number of "unofficial expulsions" appear to be increasing. Expulsion rates vary amongst schools, but those situated in middle-class areas request more expulsions than those situated in lower socio-economic areas. Substance abuse is by far the most dominant reason for expulsion followed by physical confrontation, verbal confrontation, theft, sexual assault and other behavioural problems. Whilst certain factors such as the socio-economic background, intake, catchment area and ethos of the school does influence expulsions, factors within the school i.e. the attitude of the principal towards certain policies and practices may unintentionally contribute to its increase. Finally, the dissertation provides guidelines and recommendations towards minimising expulsions. / Educational Studies / M.Ed. (Guidance and Counselling)

This dissertation focuses on the expulsion of learners from secondary schools in the Western Cape. Learners with behavioural and emotional problems are disruptive in class. They antagonise teachers and challenge the code of conduct of the school. Expelling learners has far reaching consequences for education and society. Although official expulsions have remained constant the number of "unofficial expulsions" appear to be increasing. Expulsion rates vary amongst schools, but those situated in middle-class areas request more expulsions than those situated in lower socio-economic areas. Substance abuse is by far the most dominant reason for expulsion followed by physical confrontation, verbal confrontation, theft, sexual assault and other behavioural problems. Whilst certain factors such as the socio-economic background, intake, catchment area and ethos of the school does influence expulsions, factors within the school i.e. the attitude of the principal towards certain policies and practices may unintentionally contribute to its increase. Finally, the dissertation provides guidelines and recommendations towards minimising expulsions. / Educational Studies / M.Ed. (Guidance and Counselling)

Text in Afrikaans / The aim of this study was to compile a programme to prepare the child in a children's home for family re-unification. An extensive study of relevant literature was conducted and included works on subjects such as the middle childhood years, the child in the children's home, family re-unification, the Gestalt approach and Gestalt play techniques. An empirical study was undertaken with semi structured interviews with social workers and family re-unification workers. From these resources some themes were identified to be included in the programme. Conclusions and suggestions were made in the interest of the implementation of the programme. / Social Work / M.Diac.(Rigting: Spelterapie)

Text in Afrikaans / The aim of this study was to compile a programme to prepare the child in a children's home for family re-unification. An extensive study of relevant literature was conducted and included works on subjects such as the middle childhood years, the child in the children's home, family re-unification, the Gestalt approach and Gestalt play techniques. An empirical study was undertaken with semi structured interviews with social workers and family re-unification workers. From these resources some themes were identified to be included in the programme. Conclusions and suggestions were made in the interest of the implementation of the programme. / Social Work / M.Diac.(Rigting: Spelterapie)

Rebelliousness is the act of defying lawful authority or a resistant way of relating to authority. It is seen by many as a normal way of development. The development of rebellious behavior actually starts in childhood and progresses through to adulthood. The study focuses on the manner in which the family and school handle the rebellious child and the negative effects that these have on the child's development. These problems may manifest in truancy, delinquency, negativism, runaway, antisocial behavior, alcohol and substance abuse and gang involvement. The results of the study prove that the environment in which the adolescent lives, contribute greatly to the development and the maintenance of rebellious behavior. Guidelines were written for parents, teachers and psychologists regarding the handling of the rebellious child. / Psychology of Education / M.Ed. (Guidance and Counselling)