EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR SOUTH AFRICAN TEACHERS

Abstract

In order to transform education in South Africa it is necessary for teachers to be appropriately equipped to meet the country’s evolving needs. The National Policy Framework for Teacher Education and Development is an initiative to address these needs. The article addresses the following research question: How effective is the proposed CPDT in the National Policy Framework for Teacher Education and Development and how should it be implemented? It attempts to satisfy two objectives: (1) to arrive at a clear understanding of effective professional development (PD) programmes for teachers; and (2) to outline how key aspects could influence the effective implementation of the National Policy Framework for Teacher Education and Development in South Africa, in particular that of Continuing Professional Teacher Development (CPTD). It concentrates on the following aspects: a focus on teachers’ learning, the commitment of teachers, quality leadership, the school context and requirements for PD programmes.