Embracing Ubuntu in managing effective classrooms

Abstract

African values have not been fully incorporated in modern education systems. For example, in teacher education the curriculum has not been influenced by African values such as Ubuntu. Ubuntu as a philosophy that can assist teachers to manage classrooms effectively, as it encourages working together amongst people in various settings. Ubuntu is founded on three pillars, namely, interpersonal values, intrapersonal values and environmental values. These pillars signify regard for others, the self and the environment. This is a conceptual paper that proposes the infusion of an African perspective into classroom management which currently considers mainly Western principles in creating a conducive learning environment.

Keywords: Ubuntu, humanness, ujamaa, values, morals, unembeza, humility