Implementing Music according to the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) : experiences of Foundation Phase educators

Abstract

The implementation of Music according to the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) in the Foundation Phase is not adequate. Reasons for this incorporate inter alia lack of knowledge of Music pedagogy by Foundation Phase educators, lack of resources and poor assistance and monitoring from the Department of Education. The study was based on qualitative case study method, exploring the experiences of Foundation Phase educators in implementing Music according to CAPS. Interviews were held with three Foundation Phase educators. Data was also collected by means of observations and analysing personal documents such as learners‟ class work books and educators‟ Music files. Analyses of the data obtained showed that Foundation Phase educators who participated in the research did not have Music teaching experience before the introduction of CAPS in 2012. A key concern is that these participants did not plan for Music and the time allocated for it was used to teach the so-called core subjects such as Mathematics and Languages. Moreover, educators who participated in this study would only make learners to sing at the beginning of lessons of study areas such as beginning knowledge and Mathematics as an effort to integrate Music with other subjects. Recommendations included development of a partnership between any University that offers Music and the North West Department of Education which may assist with Music pedagogy and to augment resources such as relevant books and Musical instruments.