Abstract
M.Ed.
The central focus of the study is the development of guidelines and the creation of a implementation model for the integration of Outcomes Based Education (hereafter referred to as OBE) and Cooperative learning. The purpose of both the guidelines and the implementation model is to assist colleges with the implementation of the Education Strategy of the National Department of Education as proposed by the Minister of Education.
A literature study was initiated through the identification of a problem area. A problem statement was formulated, followed by determining a working methodology which was to be followed during the execution of the study.
During the study as well as the development stages of the implementation model, both OBE and Cooperative learning remained the central focus. By means of a literature study both the focus points were highlighted by the emphasis on the integration of OBE and Cooperative learning.
The literature study was followed by a quantitative empirical study. The study was supported by the development of a qualitative data gathering instrument.
The empirical study was conducted at 3 colleges.
The purpose of the empirical study was to determine the extend to which lecturers were employing OBE and Cooperative learning in the Mathematics classes.
The research data forthcoming from the empirical study were analysed. During this analysis the focus fell on specifically six points. The six points were the following:
• What level of understanding do the respondents have of OBE and Cooperative learning?
• What level of training have respondents undergone pertaining to OBE and Cooperative learning?
• Does the need exist among respondents to implement OBE and Cooperative learning in their Mathematics classes?
• Are respondents capable of implementing OBE and Cooperative learning in their Mathematics classes?
• How often are OBE and Cooperative learning used by the respondents in the Mathematics classes?
• Is there a need among respondents for further training in OBE and Cooperative learning?
The analysis was followed by an elaborate discussion of the above mentioned points to ensure the data acquired were understood and correctly interpreted. This allowed the researcher to draw certain conclusions, which in turn, along with personal experience, were used to make recommendations with respect to the integration of OBE and Cooperative learning as teaching approaches in Mathematics classes.