Abstract
M.Ed. (Sociology of Education)
The study aims to investigate the educators' perceptions of the implementation of the Life
Orientation learning area in schools. The investigation arose from the fact that Life
Orientation is a new learning area introduced in the Foundation and Senior Phase as part
of Curriculum 2005. The aim of this learning area is to empower learners in a holistic
manner to live meaningful lives in a society that demands rapid transformation. However,
the implementation of the outcomes-based approach as expressed in Curriculum 2005 in
general, and in particular in the newly developed Life Orientation learning area, has
proved to be complex and resulted in negativity on the side of teachers.
The question addressed in this study is: What are educators' perceptions of and
experiences of the implementation of the Life Orientation learning area in their schools?
The aim for this study is to provide curriculum developers and educational teacher trainers
with a clearer picture of the facilitation of the Life Orientation learning area.
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The research method used included literature review of the nature and aims of the
Life Orientation learning area within the framework of Curriculum 2005. An empirical
investigation of teacher's perceptions of the Life Orientation learning area and its
implementation was performed using both the qualitative and the quantitative approaches.
Respondents were selected from a purposeful sample of schools representing former
Model C schools, informal settlement schools as well as township schools.
The following findings from the investigation deserve mention:
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The majority of educators emphasised the need to improve the quality of training in
the Life Orientation learning area. The training facilitators need to be equipped with
the knowledge and skills, as well as relevant resources and teaching aids to provide
effective training for educators.
Most educators enjoyed teaching Life Orientation as they realised that it focussed on
real life issues, coping skills as well as learner development in various aspects
(physical, emotional, social, spiritual and intellectual). The aim or purpose of teaching
Life Orientation is to provide learners with useful skills to cope with useful skills to
cope with life and its challenges, as well as to mould them to adulthood...