Abstract
M.Ed.
Chapter one dealt with defining the problem, setting out general and specific aims of the research as well as the methodology to be implemented. Chapter two focused on the literature review of: An OVERVIEW of competence which briefly examines the meaning of competence. An important distinction is made between competence as a capacity and competence as a disposition. The former term is employed broadly when we evaluate individuals in realizing their aspirations to the standards of whatever professional activity that they are engaged in, whereas the latter term is used to label particular abilities as a competent piece of driving or writing (see 2.2.p. 7). A COMPETENT TEACHER can be defined as an efficient yet flexible person. These are teachers who are caring by doing what they can to make learning interesting, exciting and satisfying. Their pupils learn well, admire and respect them, and usually like them personally (see 2.2.1.0). DISCIPLINE involves the managing of students behaviour that disturbs the rights of others. It also includes measures to alleviate the problem of discipline in class. Discipline creates an educational climate that promotes optimal learning (see 2.4. p.9). HUMAN RELATIONSHIPS are very necessary for order and discipline to prevail in schools. Good human relationships creates harmonious conditions for all stakeholders and also fosters a culture of teaching and learning. It also leads to an environment of order so that education proceeds effectively.
Chapter three explains the design of the research project together with an explication of the questions relating to human relationships as an aspect of order and discipline. All the questions resulted in high mean scores, that is between 3,72 to 4,41. Chapter four discusses the analysis, interpretation and discussion of the empirical data.
Findings from the literature survey in respect of human relationships as an aspect of order and discipline and the implication for the management of teacher competence. Good human relationships are essential in all walks of life. Human relationships include relationships with the self and one's actions and communications with others (Dawis, Fruehling & Oldham, 1989: 267). It is noticed that human relations are initiated in the family. Here one learns as sense of ethical behaviour by listening to evidence from one's parents. It is also learnt that the relationship between teachers and pupils should have messages of praise in order for pupils to be open and receptive to their teachers in the learning environment (see 2.4.5. p.14) This also means that the teachers have to be competent in the disciplining of pupils. The teacher who is unable to maintain order and discipline in the classroom will most probably be labelled as an incompetent teacher (see 2.5. p.19). Important empirical finding in respect of teacher competence.