Abstract
M.Ed.
In the light of the foregoing postulation of the problems and issues to be addressed, the present research study was aimed at determining the problems of Grade 1 and 2 facilitators with respect to Curriculum 2005, with a view to developing guidelines which the educational psychologist could follow in support of teachers' efforts to implement and apply Curriculum 2005. The study had as its point of reference an ecosystemic theoretical framework in terms of which the aim, nature and origin of the outcomes-based approach to teaching and learning, as well as the advancement thereof in Western countries, were discussed. In addition, the researcher took a closer look at how the said system impacted on the facilitator's role in the foundation phase, as well as at the paradigm shift with respect to facilitator resistance.
The results of the study indicated that facilitators deemed the in-service training, advising,
support and guidance of the Department to be bewildering, incongruent and akin to information overload. The majority of facilitators concurred, however, that extensive retraining and experimental practice with respect to the implementation and application of Curriculum 2005 could possibly solve a myriad of problems regarding the implementation of this curriculum. In addition, facilitators seemed to feel a clamant need for continued support and advice from the Department, as well as from the school in its capacity of a system. The future perspective hinged upon both positive and negative sentiments, however. Negative perceptions involved the failure of Curriculum 2005, whilst positive experiences, on the other hand, centred around the suitability of the model for learners' social and cognitive development and their chances of success, since they experience the implementation as a process. In spite of in-service training and the provision of documentation on the new system of education and learning, facilitators still exhibit an alarming ignorance of the philosophy and concepts underpinning OBE — ignorance that could only be explained in terms of the inadequate in-service training offered to facilitators and their lack of motivation as far as self-development is concerned.
Recommendations for policy makers are also incorporated in the guidelines