The influence of the work circumstances of high school teachers on their attitude towards their work and their levels of motivation. 1Introduction The working circumstances of high school teachers have changed over the past few years, and more specifically since the implementation of OBE and the rationalisation of teachers. The research presumption is that, as a result of the changes, teachers’ workloads have increased and consequently, they have less time to complete more work. The latter includes preparation for the various learning areas, as well as OBE administration. 2Background Certain elements in teachers’ work circumstances which influence attitudes include the following: The change in work circumstances has resulted in a greater workload which consequently led to an increase in stress levels. Higher stress levels are experienced by teachers worldwide, and not only in South Africa. Teachers have to work longer hours to complete their work. Many teachers don’t experience job satisfaction in their present circumstances. Changes in education influence the attitudes, achievements and performance of teachers. This causes a decrease in their motivation levels. Statistics prove that teachers have a low morale country wide. 3Research Methodology Research question: How did the changed work circumstances of teachers influence their attitude towards their work and their motivation levels? This is a qualitative study in which interviews, six in total, with teachers with more than eight years’ experience of parallel medium (former Model C schools) and black schools were used. / Dissertation (MEd (Educational Leadership))--University of Pretoria, 2006. / Education Management and Policy Studies / MEd / unrestricted

The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of the working conditions on the productivity of the nursing staff in the Midwife&Obstetrical Unit of Pretoria West Hospital. It was important to establish the working conditions prevailing within the unit and further to determine which factors related to the working conditions that influence productivity of the nursing staff. The findings of the research are intended to provide guidance to the management in dealing with issues regarding working conditions so as to improve the productivity of the nursing staff in the unit. A combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches was used, specifically the dominant-less-dominant model. The research approach was predominantly quantitative with lesser qualitative components incorporated for respondents to give recommendations intended for management so that improvement in their working conditions could be implemented Applied research was relevant in this study as the knowledge gained, can be utilised to address productivity problems emanating from working conditions. The aspects of working conditions that impact on productivity were explored and discussed in the literature study. The literature study also included a discussion on the cost of work stress on individuals and organizations. The section concluded with a discussion on the role of Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) in an organization. A self-developed questionnaire was used as a research tool to collect data from the respondents. No sampling was done because of the small size of the population, hence all members of the population were included in the study. The findings of the study were based on thirty-four questionnaires that were returned by the respondents. The findings were analysed and presented using tables and graphs which were then interpreted in words. The study revealed that the majority of the nursing staff in the Midwife Obstetrical Unit of Pretoria West Hospital perceives their working conditions as being stressful. The working conditions are negatively impacting on their well-being and job performance. The study also revealed that EAP has been implemented at the hospital, but the services of the programme are not being utilised by the majority of the nurses in the unit. Based on the findings of the study conclusions and recommendations were made regarding strategies to improve working conditions and to increase productivity. The important limitation of the study was that through reflections of some of the respondents’ views regarding sensitive issues were not obtained. Participants were given a choice of three responses which included remaining neutral. Unfortunately some respondents chose this option rather than taking a firm stand. / Dissertation (MSW)--University of Pretoria, 2010. / Social Work and Criminology / unrestricted