Gemeenskapsbetrokkenheid ter bevordering van onderwys in skole

Abstract

Community involvement in the promotion of education in schools. Community involvement in education is an issue that has gained greater momentum in recent decades and is regarded as a big asset in promoting education in schools. It ranks very high on the South African education agenda, as is clearly illustrated by the prominence it is given in the media. The modern school in the new South Africa finds itself in an educational milieu characterized by rapid changes. It is clear that schools are facing major challenges and can no longer handle the education of learners without the support of the wider community. In the light of the school's need for support from the community, this research was undertaken with the primary aim of determining the perceptions of role players from the community regarding their involvement in the school. A quantitative research method was applied in the investigation and only an experimental investigation group was involved in the random sample, comprising 446 respondents (teachers, learners, and community members). The research results were analysed statistically by computer and thereafter interpreted. On the basis of these interpretations conclusions could be drawn. A global perspective indicates that community involvement in schools is considered extremely important, but that it is not taking place satisfactorily at the moment. It was furthermore possible to refine the global perspective on community involvement in schools into a more differentiated picture, indicating clearly which facets of involvement should receive attention and be improved. Recommendations can therefore be made for meaningful, innovative and accountable community involvement in the promotion of education in schools.


(South African Journal of Education: 2001 21(4): 280-286)