Quality assurance in the foundation phase in the Eastern Cape province: a case study

Abstract

The main focus of this study was whether and how provision is made to enhance the quality of education in the Foundation Phase. After a case study investigation into a primary school and its view on quality assurance and interviews with the Department of Education: Eastern Cape province it became apparent that more research in to the quality assurance aspect of primary schools is needed. The term ";quality assurance"; needs to be discussed and understood, and facilitators and managers at schools need to have a clear view of where they are going before ownership can be taken of teaching and learning. School principals should be involved in the quality assurance process at all levels and facilitators should be engaged in a process of self-evaluation in order to en sure quality in their teaching and learning. Certain quality assurance mechanisms and procedures should be established at schools in order for all stakeholders to take responsibility for their own quality improvement, by being more accountable for their failures, to achieve the required results in their teaching.


(South African Journal of Education: 2003 22(3): 239-245)