Participatory action research with rural primary school teachers: Implications for health promotion

Abstract

The research conducted for this study assessed whether school participation in health promotion activity was a reality. Using action research methodology focus group discussions and informal contacts were made with School Management Team (SMT), teachers, learners and School Governing Bodies (SGB), consisting of 21 members in Lehlabile Circuit of Bojanala District in North West Province. The aim was to establish whether this school could be actively involved in all facets of school participation. The level of participation was described using Health Promoting School (HPS) model point to three key features of community participation: first, participation is active; second, participation involves choice; and third, choice must be potentially effective. Results of this study revealed that the school was able to identify their own health needs and challenges, prioritise them and plan appropriate strategies to meet the needs identified.

Keywords: Teachers, Implications, Health Promotion, School Management Team, School Governing Bodies