Experiences of educators of training in the curriculum assessment policy statement

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of educators of training in the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement. South Africa has undergone different curriculum changes in order to improve the standard of the education system. These changes have given educators moments of anxiety, fear and confusion. The literature review revealed that, in any curriculum change, educators as implementers of curriculum should undergo CPD so that they can be informed about changes in the education system. By being informed, educators will also refresh and increase their subject knowledge. The study employed a qualitative approach in which 12 educators were interviewed and were observed while presenting lessons in their classrooms. All 12 educators participated in semi-structured interviews. The study was conducted in Shiluvane circuit in the Mopani district in Limpopo province. The findings of the study suggest that there should be proper planning when a new curriculum is introduced. The educators felt that the time allocated for CAPS training was too short, as they could not learn everything they were supposed to learn in the allocated period. The findings also show that the CAPS presenters had little knowledge of what CAPS entails, although different useful materials were brought to the CAPS training sessions and given to the educators. There is a need for CPD of educators; and educators, like learners, need more time to adapt and adjust to changes. Sufficient monitoring and support should be provided for educators when a new curriculum is implemented.