Abstract
M.Ed.
Educators face the pressure of accountability from parents, employers, the state and the society. The success of teaching and learning at schools depends on the educator’s commitment and capabilities. The central question was : How can we describe the effectiveness of the developmental appraisal system at Thokoza primary schools and what are the reasons for a lack of commitment, capabilities and performance in the teaching staff? The focus of the study was a package of factors including the network of relationships in which educators are involved, which may be addressed to revitalize educators’ performances. The study was geographically confined to Thokoza Primary Schools in the East Rand. A convenient sample was chosen. Tools used were, questionnaires and interviews among educators and principals, and a critical review of the related literature. The project did not aim at generalization of the results but a sample, in depth understanding of the education situation concerning the developmental appraisal system at Thokoza Primary Schools.