The role of parents, teachers and the state in the establishment of a culture of teaching and learning : a study in time perspective

Abstract

This thesis reflected upon the historical roots of the problems which prevent parents, teachers and the state from fulfilling their societal functions in such a way that a culture of teaching and learning is established. It was emphasised that during the traditional period (1554-1799) parents, teachers and the state (chiefs) played a leading role in the upbringing of children to the extent that there were few factors militating against the establishment of a culture of teaching and learning. From 1799 up to 1910 education was under the control of missionaries. Missionaries made the mistake of encouraging the weakening of traditional values once effectively employed in raising children. Parents were not given an opportunity to play an effective role in the education oftheir children. Schools lacked resources. Teachers were poorly paid and ill qualified. In spite of these shortcomings, missionaries did more good than harm in creating favourable conditions for teaching and learning. It was also indicated that from 1910 up to 1953 education was under the control of the missionaries and provincial administrations (backed by the Union Government). The era was characterised by: • The state giving increasing financial assistance to schools • The teachers' fight for the improvement of their conditions of service and resources. • The limited participation given to parents in educational matters concerning their children. It was further indicated that when Bantu Education was introduced in 1953, schools became political battle-fields. Through the influence of political organisations, parents, teachers and school children organised strikes took place in protest against the Bantu Education system. The state relied on repressive measures to control education. The activities of political organisations and the state led to the breakdown of the culture of teaching and learning. The threatening situation in the country towards the late 1970s caused the state to realise the urgency of bringing reforms into education. The reforms brought about by the state were rejected by parents, teachers and school children. This resulted in the continuation of the crisis in education. Despite the dawn of the New Dispensation in 1990 parents, teachers and the state are worried by the deepening education crisis manifested in factors such as violence, increasing use of drugs and the Aids epidemic. Finally, it was indicated that there are no instant solutions to the deepening education crisis. What is important is that parents, teachers and the state should make a united effort to bring about a gradual improvement.