Abstract
In this study, secondary school learners perceptions of Responsible
Citizenship as taught in the Life Orientation learning area are explored.
Citizen Education, which is set out in Learning Outcome Two of the Life
Orientation Curriculum, forms the basis of the programme used to conduct
this study.
An international as well as a national perspective of Responsible
Citizenship and the teaching thereof is explicated with special reference
being made to the Further Education and Training Band. The availability of
learning programmes in South Africa as well as the specific learning
programme used to conduct this investigation is discussed.
A qualitative research design was adopted and a single case study was
undertaken at a secondary school. Participants wrote essays, completed
diagnostic tests and participated in a focus group interview.
Key concepts were identified, categorised and explicated. As a result,
three major themes were conceptualised: Active Participation, Human
Rights Philosophies and Orientation to Values. Although the specific
programme used did not appear to be suitable for use in all teaching
environments it did contribute to the secondary school learners
perceptions of Responsible Citizenship as taught in the Life Orientation
learning area.
Dr. M.P. van der Merwe