Adolescents' perspectives of discipline problems at a secondary school in Gauteng

Abstract

Problem behaviours amongst adolescent learners continue to affect the goals of effective education. The current study sought to investigate adolescents’ perspectives of discipline problems at a secondary school in Gauteng. A mixed method research design was followed during which questionnaires, focus groups and interviews directed the empirical investigation. The findings revealed two areas for addressing and improving the discipline problems of the secondary school, namely improving extrinsic factors and improving the current discipline system. Based on the findings, it was suggested that the school encourage greater parent involvement and improve parent-teacher communication. Creating a positive school identity and developing teachers further was proposed. An improved discipline system based on a positive learning approach was recommended. This included clarifying the discipline system to all role players, standardising discipline procedures throughout the school and improving follow up procedures regarding learner discipline.