Criteria for sound Christian education, with reference to Christian Education South Africa (CESA) 1984-1993 : a historical-educational investigation and evaluation

Abstract

Christian Education South Africa (CESA), formerly known as Accelerated Christian Education (South Africa) or ACE(SA), represents a significant number of evangelical Christian schools in South Africa. Most CESA schools are multiracial· and part of charismatic fellowships. The purpose of this study was to investigate CESA {its roots, philosophy of education and methodology) and to evaluate the quality of Christian education offered at CESA schools. Firstly, 'sound Christian education' was defined. Secondly, a model for assessing Christian education was developed. The SAPPAB model with its six criteria (spiritual, academic, physical, practical, administrative and balance) assess both the biblical and t educational 'soundness' of an education programme . . Information was gathered over six years by way of interviews, surveys, ethnographic and in-depth case studies. Evaluations included individual CESA schools, CESA as an organization and the ACE programme. The major finding was that individual CESA schools do contribute meaningfully to sound Christian education, but that the organization as such lost its vision and its influence.