VG GASA | University of South Africa (original) (raw)

Papers by VG GASA

Research paper thumbnail of Decolonising the African doctorate: transforming the foundations of knowledge

Higher education, Jan 30, 2024

Research paper thumbnail of The impact of disrupted family life and school climate on the self-concept of the adolescent

The impact of disrupted family life and school climate on the selfconcept of the adolescent This ... more The impact of disrupted family life and school climate on the selfconcept of the adolescent This study was undertaken to determine whether a disrupted family life and school climate has an impact on the self-concept of the adolescent. This problem was tackled and investigated from different angles : factors within the home, factors outside the home, intrapsychic factors, interpersonal factors and school factors. An analysis of the above factors and their impact on the self-concept of the adolescent was done by means of measuring instruments in the form of a questionnaire. The results of the empirical research indicated that the more positive the family and school climate, the more positive the academic, social and emotional self-concept of the adolescent. The educational implications of the findings of the literature and the empirical study are discussed to assist teachers and parents to identify and eliminate factors that cause adolescents from disrupted families to underachieve and have negative self-concepts.

Research paper thumbnail of Learners' aggressive behaviour in secondary school: a psycho-social perspective

This study was undertaken to determine the extent of aggressive behaviour exhibited by secondary ... more This study was undertaken to determine the extent of aggressive behaviour exhibited by secondary school learners. Many factors were considered when investigating the problem of aggressive behaviour. The problem was traced from the theorists' perspectives and factors related to the family, school and community. An extensive literature review showed that the above factors contribute to aggressive behaviour among adolescents. In order to support or reject the findings of the literature study, quantitative (questionnaire) research and qualitative research (interviews) were conducted. The results of the quantitative research concerning learners' aggressive behaviour in secondary schools were analysed and interpreted while at the same time a deeper understanding of aggressive behaviour was revealed through qualitative research. The results of the empirical research indicated that the more negative the family climate, school climate, community climate or influence of friends are, or the more negative the emotional self-concept of the adolescent is, the more aggressive the adolescent is, and vice versa. Based on these findings recommendations for the implementation of prevention programmes were made.

Research paper thumbnail of The Determinants of Learners’ Aggressive Behaviour

Journal of Social Sciences, Feb 1, 2012

This study was undertaken to determine the factors that contribute to learners' aggressive behavi... more This study was undertaken to determine the factors that contribute to learners' aggressive behaviour. An extensive literature review showed that this behaviour is often attributed to factors such as family background, community and school socialisation. A small-scale survey was administered in the Free State province, South Africa, to ascertain whether the framework and findings from the literature on learners' aggressive behaviour apply in the context of South Africa. The data shows significant traces of aggressive behaviour in the fa mily, the community and school. The study recommends inclusive intervention programmes that target learners, family, school and community members in order to reduce learners' aggressive behaviour.

Research paper thumbnail of Social Justice and Inclusion of Children With Diverse Needs in Mainstream Schools

Advances in religious and cultural studies (ARCS) book series, 2018

This chapter opens with a broad statement that coins the social justice and inclusion as prominen... more This chapter opens with a broad statement that coins the social justice and inclusion as prominent concepts. The foundation is laid by giving a clear background using a South African context where there is a gap between the policy and implementation of social justice and inclusion of children in mainstream schools. This explanation goes further when the social justice, inclusion, and related concepts are conceptualised and the relationship brought forth. The main issues that temper social justice and inclusion in the mainstream schools are debated. Furthermore, there is an engagement regarding practices that hamper social justice and inclusivity of children with diverse needs. Finally, the solutions and recommendations that can be considered in dealing with the issues, controversies, or problems presented in this chapter are highlighted.

Research paper thumbnail of Exploring the Relationship between Learners’ Aggressive Behaviour and Disrupted Family Life

The Anthropologist, Apr 1, 2012

This paper debates the assumption that the disrupted family life contributes to aggressive behavi... more This paper debates the assumption that the disrupted family life contributes to aggressive behaviour exhibited by learners. The literature review showed that some aspects of the disrupted family life contribute to aggressive behaviour in learners. A small-scale research study was conducted in the Free State province of South Africa to explore whether the framework and findings taken from the literature on learners' aggressive behaviour are applicable in the context of South Africa. The data indicated that negativity in some families potentially results in learners' aggressive behaviour. The paper recommends intervention strategies that target learners and family members in order to reduce learners' aggressive behaviour. The inclusive intervention programmes outlined in the article are essential for reducing the negative effects on individuals, in the schools and in the family

Research paper thumbnail of The community as a determinant of learners' aggressive behaviour in secondary schools

Commonwealth Youth and Development, Nov 1, 2010

A study was undertaken to determine the extent to which the community contributes towards aggress... more A study was undertaken to determine the extent to which the community contributes towards aggressive behaviour exhibited by secondary school learners. An extensive literature review showed that social factors contribute to aggressive behaviour among learners. In order to support or reject the findings of the literature study, quantitative (questionnaire) research was conducted. The research results concerning the contribution of social climate towards learners' aggressive behaviour in secondary schools indicated that the more negative the social climate of the learner the more aggressive the learner is, and vice versa. There is a need to consider intervention strategies that target learners and community members in order to reduce learners' aggressive behaviour. The inclusive intervention programmes outlined in this article are essential to help reduce negative effects on individuals, schools and communities.

Research paper thumbnail of Exploring the Role of Grandparents in the Lives of Teenage Learners

Journal of Human Ecology, Mar 1, 2012

Historically, grandparents have often served as an alternative when birth parents were unable to ... more Historically, grandparents have often served as an alternative when birth parents were unable to care for their children. The number of grandparents who are taking care of grandchildren, in this case teenage learners, in South Africa is an issue that is unlikely to go away. With the prevalence of diseases such as HIV/AIDS, unplanned/ teenage pregnancies and parental negligence, it is likely that the trend seen in the past decade will continue, with an increasing number of grandparents parenting their grandchildren. It is often difficult for grandparents to take care of smaller grandchildren with basic needs. It is, however, even more difficult to parent teenage learners who require emotional guidance during this transitional stage in their lives. Their demands are often overwhelming, as they need support with school work, coping with life challenges and finding direction. A study was undertaken to determine the challenges faced by grandparents who take on the surrogate parental role for teenage learners. A small-scale survey consisted of ten grandparents was conducted in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. The findings show that the participants were often stressed by the school demands, lack of support from the government agencies, and severe limitations on their bodies due to health and age. These challenges impact on their parenting role as they are progressively unable to adequately provide for the teenage learners in their care. Therefore, this study aims at exploring these challenges with a view to making recommendation on intervention strategies. These intervention strategies are essential and may help to reduce negative effects, provide information and coping skills not only to grandparents but also to teenage learners and school personnel.

Research paper thumbnail of Teachers’ Perceptions on Condom Availability in Schools

Research paper thumbnail of The role of father-son relationship in behavioural and emotional development of adolescent boys

Gender and behaviour, Jun 1, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Editorial Preface by the Editorial Board Chairperson

International Journal of Educational Development in Africa

Research paper thumbnail of The role of father-son relationship in behavioural and emotional development of adolescent boys

Gender and behaviour, Jun 1, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Editorial Preface by the Editorial Board Chairperson

International Journal of Educational Development in Africa

Research paper thumbnail of The Availability of Learner Support Services in Selected Open, Distance and e-Learning Institutions

International Journal of Educational Development in Africa

Learner support is regarded as a survival tool necessary for any student who chooses to learn in ... more Learner support is regarded as a survival tool necessary for any student who chooses to learn in an Open, Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) institution. It is a necessary service and component of a student’s academic experience. Distance learning providers are, therefore, expected to sensitise students on the demands and challenges of distance learning formats so that they can acquire coping mechanisms as challenges arise. However, it has been noticed that, although many institutions provide several forms of learner support, they are sometimes inaccessible or minimally useful to the students. The purpose of this article is to investigate the extent of support services’ availability for students in ODeL institutions. It draws from a study that was carried out to evaluate learner support services rendered by ODeL institutions to first entrant undergraduate students. To collect data, a questionnaire was constructed to test variables (9 learner support indices) within the construct. It was...

Research paper thumbnail of Teacher Preparation in Zambia’s Expanded Core Curriculum: Challenges and Opportunities

African Journal of Teacher Education

Well-prepared teachers are a determinant in the successful implementation of expanded core curric... more Well-prepared teachers are a determinant in the successful implementation of expanded core curriculum. Teachers can give learners skills according to the way they are prepared. Learners with visual impairments in special schools and students at tertiary level manifest deficits in critical skills required in academic success and transition in general. The nature of education of their teachers and challenges encountered during teacher preparation were not well established. The present study explored challenges faced in the preparation of teachers of learners with visual impairments in expanded core curriculum. Purposive sampling was used to select twenty-two teachers, two special education curriculum specialists and three Teacher educators. Open-ended questionnaires were used to collect data from teachers of learners with visual impairments and semi structured interviews were conducted with teacher educators and curriculum specialists. The findings indicated that teacher education/pre...

Research paper thumbnail of The Availability of Learner Support Services in Selected Open, Distance and e-Learning Institutions

International Journal of Educational Development in Africa

Learner support is regarded as a survival tool necessary for any student who chooses to learn in ... more Learner support is regarded as a survival tool necessary for any student who chooses to learn in an Open, Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) institution. It is a necessary service and component of a student’s academic experience. Distance learning providers are, therefore, expected to sensitise students on the demands and challenges of distance learning formats so that they can acquire coping mechanisms as challenges arise. However, it has been noticed that, although many institutions provide several forms of learner support, they are sometimes inaccessible or minimally useful to the students. The purpose of this article is to investigate the extent of support services’ availability for students in ODeL institutions. It draws from a study that was carried out to evaluate learner support services rendered by ODeL institutions to first entrant undergraduate students. To collect data, a questionnaire was constructed to test variables (9 learner support indices) within the construct. It was...

Research paper thumbnail of Academic Barriers That Prevent the Inclusion of Learners With Visual Impairment in Ethiopian Mainstream Schools

SAGE Open, Apr 1, 2022

This article explored the academic barriers that prevent the inclusion of learners with visual im... more This article explored the academic barriers that prevent the inclusion of learners with visual impairment in mainstream schools. It is a purposive study that was conducted in two schools in Tigray Regional State in Ethiopia. The data were collected through interviews and focus group discussions from 2 school principals, 4 teachers, and 12 learners with and without visual impairment. The findings reveal a lack of books in braille, a shortage of computers with “Job Access With Speech” (JAWS) software, few audio-recorded materials, and minimal curriculum adaptation to suit learners with visual impairments. It was discovered that these academic barriers affect the teaching and learning as well as the implementation and actualization of inclusive education. Therefore, this article calls for the Ministry of Education (MoE), schools, communities, governmental, and non-governmental organizations to intervene and ensure the balance between accessibility of education and availability of resources to cater to all learners with visual impairments.

Research paper thumbnail of Teacher Preparation in Zambia’s Expanded Core Curriculum: Challenges and Opportunities

African Journal of Teacher Education

Well-prepared teachers are a determinant in the successful implementation of expanded core curric... more Well-prepared teachers are a determinant in the successful implementation of expanded core curriculum. Teachers can give learners skills according to the way they are prepared. Learners with visual impairments in special schools and students at tertiary level manifest deficits in critical skills required in academic success and transition in general. The nature of education of their teachers and challenges encountered during teacher preparation were not well established. The present study explored challenges faced in the preparation of teachers of learners with visual impairments in expanded core curriculum. Purposive sampling was used to select twenty-two teachers, two special education curriculum specialists and three Teacher educators. Open-ended questionnaires were used to collect data from teachers of learners with visual impairments and semi structured interviews were conducted with teacher educators and curriculum specialists. The findings indicated that teacher education/pre...

Research paper thumbnail of Resilience in the context of learners and youth raised in grandparent-headed families

Commonwealth Youth and Development, 2013

This paper describes a study of resilience and protective factors in learners who are raised in g... more This paper describes a study of resilience and protective factors in learners who are raised in grandparent-headed families. Using targeted sampling to capture the diversity and range of this often neglected population, a study followed 20 learners from when they started schooling to the age of 25. This allowed identification of resilience and protective factors in learners exposed to challenging or disrupted family environments as they grew up. The findings reveal that these learners grew into competent, confident and caring young adults. None developed serious learning or behavioural problems in childhood or adolescence. They succeeded in school, managed home and social life well, and expressed a strong desire to take advantage of whatever opportunity came their way. However, resilience should be conceptualised as a process and as a process it is the product of an interaction between the individual and their social context. If it is produced by interaction it is potentially open t...

Research paper thumbnail of Academic Barriers That Prevent the Inclusion of Learners With Visual Impairment in Ethiopian Mainstream Schools

SAGE Open, Apr 1, 2022

This article explored the academic barriers that prevent the inclusion of learners with visual im... more This article explored the academic barriers that prevent the inclusion of learners with visual impairment in mainstream schools. It is a purposive study that was conducted in two schools in Tigray Regional State in Ethiopia. The data were collected through interviews and focus group discussions from 2 school principals, 4 teachers, and 12 learners with and without visual impairment. The findings reveal a lack of books in braille, a shortage of computers with “Job Access With Speech” (JAWS) software, few audio-recorded materials, and minimal curriculum adaptation to suit learners with visual impairments. It was discovered that these academic barriers affect the teaching and learning as well as the implementation and actualization of inclusive education. Therefore, this article calls for the Ministry of Education (MoE), schools, communities, governmental, and non-governmental organizations to intervene and ensure the balance between accessibility of education and availability of resources to cater to all learners with visual impairments.

Research paper thumbnail of Decolonising the African doctorate: transforming the foundations of knowledge

Higher education, Jan 30, 2024

Research paper thumbnail of The impact of disrupted family life and school climate on the self-concept of the adolescent

The impact of disrupted family life and school climate on the selfconcept of the adolescent This ... more The impact of disrupted family life and school climate on the selfconcept of the adolescent This study was undertaken to determine whether a disrupted family life and school climate has an impact on the self-concept of the adolescent. This problem was tackled and investigated from different angles : factors within the home, factors outside the home, intrapsychic factors, interpersonal factors and school factors. An analysis of the above factors and their impact on the self-concept of the adolescent was done by means of measuring instruments in the form of a questionnaire. The results of the empirical research indicated that the more positive the family and school climate, the more positive the academic, social and emotional self-concept of the adolescent. The educational implications of the findings of the literature and the empirical study are discussed to assist teachers and parents to identify and eliminate factors that cause adolescents from disrupted families to underachieve and have negative self-concepts.

Research paper thumbnail of Learners' aggressive behaviour in secondary school: a psycho-social perspective

This study was undertaken to determine the extent of aggressive behaviour exhibited by secondary ... more This study was undertaken to determine the extent of aggressive behaviour exhibited by secondary school learners. Many factors were considered when investigating the problem of aggressive behaviour. The problem was traced from the theorists' perspectives and factors related to the family, school and community. An extensive literature review showed that the above factors contribute to aggressive behaviour among adolescents. In order to support or reject the findings of the literature study, quantitative (questionnaire) research and qualitative research (interviews) were conducted. The results of the quantitative research concerning learners' aggressive behaviour in secondary schools were analysed and interpreted while at the same time a deeper understanding of aggressive behaviour was revealed through qualitative research. The results of the empirical research indicated that the more negative the family climate, school climate, community climate or influence of friends are, or the more negative the emotional self-concept of the adolescent is, the more aggressive the adolescent is, and vice versa. Based on these findings recommendations for the implementation of prevention programmes were made.

Research paper thumbnail of The Determinants of Learners’ Aggressive Behaviour

Journal of Social Sciences, Feb 1, 2012

This study was undertaken to determine the factors that contribute to learners' aggressive behavi... more This study was undertaken to determine the factors that contribute to learners' aggressive behaviour. An extensive literature review showed that this behaviour is often attributed to factors such as family background, community and school socialisation. A small-scale survey was administered in the Free State province, South Africa, to ascertain whether the framework and findings from the literature on learners' aggressive behaviour apply in the context of South Africa. The data shows significant traces of aggressive behaviour in the fa mily, the community and school. The study recommends inclusive intervention programmes that target learners, family, school and community members in order to reduce learners' aggressive behaviour.

Research paper thumbnail of Social Justice and Inclusion of Children With Diverse Needs in Mainstream Schools

Advances in religious and cultural studies (ARCS) book series, 2018

This chapter opens with a broad statement that coins the social justice and inclusion as prominen... more This chapter opens with a broad statement that coins the social justice and inclusion as prominent concepts. The foundation is laid by giving a clear background using a South African context where there is a gap between the policy and implementation of social justice and inclusion of children in mainstream schools. This explanation goes further when the social justice, inclusion, and related concepts are conceptualised and the relationship brought forth. The main issues that temper social justice and inclusion in the mainstream schools are debated. Furthermore, there is an engagement regarding practices that hamper social justice and inclusivity of children with diverse needs. Finally, the solutions and recommendations that can be considered in dealing with the issues, controversies, or problems presented in this chapter are highlighted.

Research paper thumbnail of Exploring the Relationship between Learners’ Aggressive Behaviour and Disrupted Family Life

The Anthropologist, Apr 1, 2012

This paper debates the assumption that the disrupted family life contributes to aggressive behavi... more This paper debates the assumption that the disrupted family life contributes to aggressive behaviour exhibited by learners. The literature review showed that some aspects of the disrupted family life contribute to aggressive behaviour in learners. A small-scale research study was conducted in the Free State province of South Africa to explore whether the framework and findings taken from the literature on learners' aggressive behaviour are applicable in the context of South Africa. The data indicated that negativity in some families potentially results in learners' aggressive behaviour. The paper recommends intervention strategies that target learners and family members in order to reduce learners' aggressive behaviour. The inclusive intervention programmes outlined in the article are essential for reducing the negative effects on individuals, in the schools and in the family

Research paper thumbnail of The community as a determinant of learners' aggressive behaviour in secondary schools

Commonwealth Youth and Development, Nov 1, 2010

A study was undertaken to determine the extent to which the community contributes towards aggress... more A study was undertaken to determine the extent to which the community contributes towards aggressive behaviour exhibited by secondary school learners. An extensive literature review showed that social factors contribute to aggressive behaviour among learners. In order to support or reject the findings of the literature study, quantitative (questionnaire) research was conducted. The research results concerning the contribution of social climate towards learners' aggressive behaviour in secondary schools indicated that the more negative the social climate of the learner the more aggressive the learner is, and vice versa. There is a need to consider intervention strategies that target learners and community members in order to reduce learners' aggressive behaviour. The inclusive intervention programmes outlined in this article are essential to help reduce negative effects on individuals, schools and communities.

Research paper thumbnail of Exploring the Role of Grandparents in the Lives of Teenage Learners

Journal of Human Ecology, Mar 1, 2012

Historically, grandparents have often served as an alternative when birth parents were unable to ... more Historically, grandparents have often served as an alternative when birth parents were unable to care for their children. The number of grandparents who are taking care of grandchildren, in this case teenage learners, in South Africa is an issue that is unlikely to go away. With the prevalence of diseases such as HIV/AIDS, unplanned/ teenage pregnancies and parental negligence, it is likely that the trend seen in the past decade will continue, with an increasing number of grandparents parenting their grandchildren. It is often difficult for grandparents to take care of smaller grandchildren with basic needs. It is, however, even more difficult to parent teenage learners who require emotional guidance during this transitional stage in their lives. Their demands are often overwhelming, as they need support with school work, coping with life challenges and finding direction. A study was undertaken to determine the challenges faced by grandparents who take on the surrogate parental role for teenage learners. A small-scale survey consisted of ten grandparents was conducted in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. The findings show that the participants were often stressed by the school demands, lack of support from the government agencies, and severe limitations on their bodies due to health and age. These challenges impact on their parenting role as they are progressively unable to adequately provide for the teenage learners in their care. Therefore, this study aims at exploring these challenges with a view to making recommendation on intervention strategies. These intervention strategies are essential and may help to reduce negative effects, provide information and coping skills not only to grandparents but also to teenage learners and school personnel.

Research paper thumbnail of Teachers’ Perceptions on Condom Availability in Schools

Research paper thumbnail of The role of father-son relationship in behavioural and emotional development of adolescent boys

Gender and behaviour, Jun 1, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Editorial Preface by the Editorial Board Chairperson

International Journal of Educational Development in Africa

Research paper thumbnail of The role of father-son relationship in behavioural and emotional development of adolescent boys

Gender and behaviour, Jun 1, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Editorial Preface by the Editorial Board Chairperson

International Journal of Educational Development in Africa

Research paper thumbnail of The Availability of Learner Support Services in Selected Open, Distance and e-Learning Institutions

International Journal of Educational Development in Africa

Learner support is regarded as a survival tool necessary for any student who chooses to learn in ... more Learner support is regarded as a survival tool necessary for any student who chooses to learn in an Open, Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) institution. It is a necessary service and component of a student’s academic experience. Distance learning providers are, therefore, expected to sensitise students on the demands and challenges of distance learning formats so that they can acquire coping mechanisms as challenges arise. However, it has been noticed that, although many institutions provide several forms of learner support, they are sometimes inaccessible or minimally useful to the students. The purpose of this article is to investigate the extent of support services’ availability for students in ODeL institutions. It draws from a study that was carried out to evaluate learner support services rendered by ODeL institutions to first entrant undergraduate students. To collect data, a questionnaire was constructed to test variables (9 learner support indices) within the construct. It was...

Research paper thumbnail of Teacher Preparation in Zambia’s Expanded Core Curriculum: Challenges and Opportunities

African Journal of Teacher Education

Well-prepared teachers are a determinant in the successful implementation of expanded core curric... more Well-prepared teachers are a determinant in the successful implementation of expanded core curriculum. Teachers can give learners skills according to the way they are prepared. Learners with visual impairments in special schools and students at tertiary level manifest deficits in critical skills required in academic success and transition in general. The nature of education of their teachers and challenges encountered during teacher preparation were not well established. The present study explored challenges faced in the preparation of teachers of learners with visual impairments in expanded core curriculum. Purposive sampling was used to select twenty-two teachers, two special education curriculum specialists and three Teacher educators. Open-ended questionnaires were used to collect data from teachers of learners with visual impairments and semi structured interviews were conducted with teacher educators and curriculum specialists. The findings indicated that teacher education/pre...

Research paper thumbnail of The Availability of Learner Support Services in Selected Open, Distance and e-Learning Institutions

International Journal of Educational Development in Africa

Learner support is regarded as a survival tool necessary for any student who chooses to learn in ... more Learner support is regarded as a survival tool necessary for any student who chooses to learn in an Open, Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) institution. It is a necessary service and component of a student’s academic experience. Distance learning providers are, therefore, expected to sensitise students on the demands and challenges of distance learning formats so that they can acquire coping mechanisms as challenges arise. However, it has been noticed that, although many institutions provide several forms of learner support, they are sometimes inaccessible or minimally useful to the students. The purpose of this article is to investigate the extent of support services’ availability for students in ODeL institutions. It draws from a study that was carried out to evaluate learner support services rendered by ODeL institutions to first entrant undergraduate students. To collect data, a questionnaire was constructed to test variables (9 learner support indices) within the construct. It was...

Research paper thumbnail of Academic Barriers That Prevent the Inclusion of Learners With Visual Impairment in Ethiopian Mainstream Schools

SAGE Open, Apr 1, 2022

This article explored the academic barriers that prevent the inclusion of learners with visual im... more This article explored the academic barriers that prevent the inclusion of learners with visual impairment in mainstream schools. It is a purposive study that was conducted in two schools in Tigray Regional State in Ethiopia. The data were collected through interviews and focus group discussions from 2 school principals, 4 teachers, and 12 learners with and without visual impairment. The findings reveal a lack of books in braille, a shortage of computers with “Job Access With Speech” (JAWS) software, few audio-recorded materials, and minimal curriculum adaptation to suit learners with visual impairments. It was discovered that these academic barriers affect the teaching and learning as well as the implementation and actualization of inclusive education. Therefore, this article calls for the Ministry of Education (MoE), schools, communities, governmental, and non-governmental organizations to intervene and ensure the balance between accessibility of education and availability of resources to cater to all learners with visual impairments.

Research paper thumbnail of Teacher Preparation in Zambia’s Expanded Core Curriculum: Challenges and Opportunities

African Journal of Teacher Education

Well-prepared teachers are a determinant in the successful implementation of expanded core curric... more Well-prepared teachers are a determinant in the successful implementation of expanded core curriculum. Teachers can give learners skills according to the way they are prepared. Learners with visual impairments in special schools and students at tertiary level manifest deficits in critical skills required in academic success and transition in general. The nature of education of their teachers and challenges encountered during teacher preparation were not well established. The present study explored challenges faced in the preparation of teachers of learners with visual impairments in expanded core curriculum. Purposive sampling was used to select twenty-two teachers, two special education curriculum specialists and three Teacher educators. Open-ended questionnaires were used to collect data from teachers of learners with visual impairments and semi structured interviews were conducted with teacher educators and curriculum specialists. The findings indicated that teacher education/pre...

Research paper thumbnail of Resilience in the context of learners and youth raised in grandparent-headed families

Commonwealth Youth and Development, 2013

This paper describes a study of resilience and protective factors in learners who are raised in g... more This paper describes a study of resilience and protective factors in learners who are raised in grandparent-headed families. Using targeted sampling to capture the diversity and range of this often neglected population, a study followed 20 learners from when they started schooling to the age of 25. This allowed identification of resilience and protective factors in learners exposed to challenging or disrupted family environments as they grew up. The findings reveal that these learners grew into competent, confident and caring young adults. None developed serious learning or behavioural problems in childhood or adolescence. They succeeded in school, managed home and social life well, and expressed a strong desire to take advantage of whatever opportunity came their way. However, resilience should be conceptualised as a process and as a process it is the product of an interaction between the individual and their social context. If it is produced by interaction it is potentially open t...

Research paper thumbnail of Academic Barriers That Prevent the Inclusion of Learners With Visual Impairment in Ethiopian Mainstream Schools

SAGE Open, Apr 1, 2022

This article explored the academic barriers that prevent the inclusion of learners with visual im... more This article explored the academic barriers that prevent the inclusion of learners with visual impairment in mainstream schools. It is a purposive study that was conducted in two schools in Tigray Regional State in Ethiopia. The data were collected through interviews and focus group discussions from 2 school principals, 4 teachers, and 12 learners with and without visual impairment. The findings reveal a lack of books in braille, a shortage of computers with “Job Access With Speech” (JAWS) software, few audio-recorded materials, and minimal curriculum adaptation to suit learners with visual impairments. It was discovered that these academic barriers affect the teaching and learning as well as the implementation and actualization of inclusive education. Therefore, this article calls for the Ministry of Education (MoE), schools, communities, governmental, and non-governmental organizations to intervene and ensure the balance between accessibility of education and availability of resources to cater to all learners with visual impairments.