The role of IQMS coordinators and subject advisors in the professional development of educators

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore in-depth, the role of Integrated Quality Management System coordinators and the role of subject advisors in the professional development of educators in the Tshwane South district and Northern Gauteng district of the Gauteng Department of Education. This qualitative research study used a case study design - the case being the role of two sets of district officials in educator professional development. This study was framed by the four main roles of the district officials as stipulated by the Personnel Administration Measures (1996), namely planning, support, supervision and educator engagement. These four main concepts were not just a point of reference but the conceptual framework underpinning the study. Altogether, eight district officials took part in this study. Semi-structured interviews were employed as data collection strategy in this study. The findings of this study were that the role of officials in planning EPD is varied and often overlaps, that support is mainly provide through school visits, but other means of support are also employed when required, that supervision and oversight is not always developmental in nature, and finally that educator engagement is often insufficient and does not always engage educators in the processes and planning of EPD. The study put forward recommendations that advance planning, advocacy and training for the implementation of IQMS be done, that professional development activities endorsed by SACE be adopted throughout the system, that a change of focus from monitoring and accountability methods in educator professional development to developmental supervision be adopted, and consultation and engagement with educators in designing and planning professional development activities be prioritised.