The evaluation of the Augmented Programme for ND Analytical Chemistry at the ML Sultan Technikon for the period 1994-1999

Abstract

Due to the inadequate schooling system and the underpreparedness of learners in South African High Schools, Higher Education Institutions are faced with learners who do not meet the minimum criteria for acceptance into mainstream science programmes. In an attempt to increase access into the institution and meet the demands of more science and technology graduates, the Department of Chemistry at the historically disadvantaged ML Sultan Technikon introduced the Augmented programme for the National Diploma: Analytical Chemistry in 1994. This study provides a report on the profile of the students registered from 1994 to 1996, their graduation rate and a correlation of their points calculated for matric symbols with their graduation rate as well as their performance in Analytical Chemistry, the major subject of their diploma. Interviews are used to determine the perceptions of the lecturers regarding the structure of and teaching in the Augmented programme.