Research in Social Sciences and Technology
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Chronicling the Experiences of Mathematics Learners and Teachers on the Usage of Guided Discovery Learning (GDL) in Enhancing Learners’ Academic Performance
Full text linkSouth Africa has been battling with the poor performance of learners in Mathematics for a long time, with the Eastern Cape province being the worst-performing province. The Department of Education and other educational stakeholders have embarked on a journey of searching for solutions. Some of these include the use of Information communication technologies (ICT), code switching, intervention programs (IP) and the use of different learners centered approach to teach Mathematics, to mention a few. Hence, this present study investigated how the guided discovery learning strategy can be used to enhance the performance of Grade 10 learners in Amathole West district, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Underpinned by an interpretivist paradigm and qualitative research approach, the study employed a participatory action research. A convenient sampling technique was used to select 19 Grade 10 Mathematics learners and 2 Mathematics teachers at a rural school in Eastern Cape Province. Data were collected using interviews, observations, and document reviews and these data were analysed using thematic analysis. Research findings revealed that while some factors such as evaluation methods, time limitations, and insufficient motivation may impede the optimal implementation of Guided Discovery Learning, this instructional strategy is beneficial in the cultivation of critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which in turn enhances mathematics learners’ academic performance. Based on the findings, it was recommended that mathematics teachers should promote the utilisation of technology and multimedia resources to support learners in their visualisation and exploration of mathematical concepts in the use of GDL to enhance mathematics learners’ performance.  
Funding Opera in the Changing Landscape: Should Opera Be Funded or Accepted as a Fading Culture in South Africa?
Full text linkOpera is considered a significant part of cultural heritage in many societies. In the South African context, opera has a rich history and has contributed to the development of various art forms. Opera has continued to play a significant role in preserving and promoting cultural diversity in South Africa. Opera production contribute to the economy by creating jobs for artists, musicians, technicians, and other professionals. Additionally, opera events can attract tourism and boost local economies. Public funding for opera may be seen as an investment with economic returns. The purpose of this article is to examine the funding of opera in South Africa against the backdrop of a changing cultural landscape. It aims to investigate whether opera should continue to receive funding or if it should be accepted as a fading cultural form. Employing a qualitative approach, ten participants, including opera company managers and artists, share their perspectives through semi-structured interviews. Colaizzi's phenomenological data analysis method reveals key themes of financial viability, challenges, and opportunities. Findings were presented in themes and supported by quotes from research participants. Opera company managers and artists shared valuable insights into financial viability, challenges, and opportunities. Strategic collaborations, revenue diversification, and the pivotal role of public funding emerged as central themes. The findings shed light on the adaptive measures undertaken by stakeholders in response to the changing cultural and financial climate. The conclusion synthesises the key findings, emphasising the resilience of South African opera in the face of funding challenges. It underscores the importance of balancing financial support and cultural acceptance for sustained vitality. The study contributes to ongoing discussions on the intersection of funding, cultural relevance, and the future of opera in South Africa. 
Instructional Practices by Engineering Graphics and Design Teachers: A Focus on Teaching and Learning of Isometric Drawing
Full text linkThis qualitative study was conducted to investigate the instructional practices used by Engineering Graphics and Design (EGD) to teach Isometric Drawing (ID). This enquiry was necessitated by the growing concern from subject advisors and teachers about the poor performance of learners in isometric drawing. In an attempt to meet the objectives, this study adopted an interpretivist position to understand the instructional practices employed by teachers in teaching isometric drawing. This study used seven (7) EGD teachers who were conveniently selected, it is worth noting that the sample was influenced by the fact that EGD is a subject that is not common hence not many schools offer it. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and was analyzed using a thematic analysis. Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) was used as a framework that underpinned this study. Findings from this study indicated that all EGD teachers have the common understanding that ID involves converting 2d orthographic view into a 3d figure. The findings further revealed that teachers rely heavily on models, YouTube videos and AutoCAD to develop learners’ spatial ability which is a very important skill. The study recommended that there should be no teacher hired to teach EGD without being fully trained. The study further recommended that future research should be conducted on learners to get their insight on why they are performing poorly in ID
A Quantitative Study Examining the Relationship Between Parental Socioeconomic Status, Body Image, Peer Influence, and Self-esteem Among Adolescents
Full text linkPeople with high self-esteem are better able to take delight in life's little pleasures, handle difficult situations, overcome challenges, establish lasting relationships, and strengthen their weaknesses. This study examined socioeconomic status, body image, and peer influence on self-esteem among in-school adolescents in Ibadan, Nigeria. The descriptive survey design of the correlational type was used during the investigation. This study employed a multi-stage sampling technique. Three hundred and forty-five in-school adolescents made the study sample. Data was collected using reliable instruments: (Peer Influence Scale α = .78; Body image scale α =0.83; Parental Socioeconomic Status Scale α =0.89; Self-Esteem Inventory α=.71). From the results, socioeconomic status (r = .533; p.<05), body image (r =. 577; p.<05), and peer influence (r = .331; p.<05) had a significant relationship with (self-esteem). Body Image made the most significant contribution (β = .371; t = 7.555; p<0.05) followed by Peer influence (β = .316; t = 8.112; p<0.05) and Socioeconomic status (β = .312; t = 6.374; p<0.05). The study underscores the need for counseling and orientation programs for adolescents in all ramifications; this will help ease the psychological strain that could hamper their self-esteem
Skills Learnt in Youth Work Practice Necessary for the Digital age: A Qualitative Study of NEET Youth
Full text linkNot in education, employment and not in training (NEET) youth as vulnerable groups need to learn and relearn new set of skills needed for the digital age since traditional jobs will be replaced with new jobs that will demand a new set of skills. The study aims to explore the perspectives of NEET youth on the skills they had learnt in youth work practices that are necessary for the digital age. A qualitative approach was employed to guide the gathering and analysis of the data. Some of the skills learnt in youth work practices include business acuity, digital skills, active citizens, and teamwork skill. To improve youth work practices in the digital age, this study recommends that youth workers need to have intensive knowledge so they can implement youth work activities effectively and improve the outcomes of NEET youth in the digital age
Reimagining Postgraduate Supervision: Fostering Inclusivity and Support for Students at-risk in Open and Distance Learning Environments
Full text linkThis qualitative study involves six lecturers who have supervised students with disabilities. Participants were purposively selected and interviewed telephonically using semi-structured interviews. The study adopted a thematic data analysis approach to identify patterns in supervision experiences. The paper problematises a deficit approach that is dominantly adopted to identify and design programmes and manage students-at-risk. The analysis of the supervision of postgraduate students-at-risk is framed within the Humanising pedagogy which advances the accommodation of students’ unique needs to develop their capacities for success. This theoretical framework is not adopted much in the open and distance learning context at postgraduate level and the use of supervisors’ insights adds new knowledge to the field that is dominated by students’ experiences. The study established that students do not communicate their disabilities to supervisors timely for early intervention, supervisors are responsive to students’ challenges which include difficulties in academic writing and limited access to research resources and technologies, and supervisors experience systemic challenges in acquiring assistive technology for students with disabilities. This study proposes a humanised supervision model that advances disability inclusivity.  
Conceptualization of student support by university support staff in an open distance e-learning environment
Full text linkStudent support is seen as a necessity to better students’ progress. For students to succeed when studying at a distance, they need a great deal of support to adjust to the institution of higher learning. Independence theory was used as a lens to understand the role of student support staff in providing services to students. A qualitative case study was employed with a purposive sample of sixteen support staff to explore the role of regional academic coordinators, counsellors, centre managers and librarians, referred to as support staff, in supporting students in an open distance e-learning institution and also to determine their understanding of student support. The results reveal that most of the support staff members were aware of their role in contributing to student success in the institution. They indicated that there is a gap between academics and professional staff where a referral system is lacking to fully support and trace students needing support. Support staff seemed to lack marketing skills to inform and attract students to utilize the services. The results further reveal a lack of technological skills among some of the support staff to facilitate online services for students. The study recommends collaboration among all role players in the institution in order to give holistic support to students and to be trained in technological skills to assist students online
Using a Blended Learning Approach to Encourage Course Interaction in a First-Year Business Communication Module
Full text linkThe aim of the study is to examine the effectiveness of blended learning in encouraging course interaction amongst first-year students studying a business communication module. The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the increased use of blended learning as a teaching approach to encourage learning regardless of the location. Existing research on blended learning suggests its value in promoting increased student engagement, ultimately contributing to positive educational outcomes. Data was collected through a cross-sectional survey whereby a questionnaire was distributed to the respondents using Google Forms. Data was analysed on the same platform. Cross-tabulation was used to understand the relationships between factors in participants’ responses to the questions. Results indicate that blended learning successfully drives course interaction because the combination of class-based and online engagement positively impacts how likely students are to engage in course content. This paper makes a valuable contribution in the form of underscoring a pressing need for research that is aimed at understanding how blended learning shapes the experiences students have with their modules, as well as how these factors may shape current practices in blended learning. Most students indicated that they would recommend blended learning as it increased participation and engagement with their course content.  
Exploring Ubuntu Philosophy as a Foundation for Holistic School Social Work in South Africa
Full text linkThis conceptual paper examines the integration of Ubuntu philosophy into school social work practice in South Africa, proposing a transformative framework rooted in interconnectedness, compassion, and community. Drawing from critical social work theories, cultural humility, and restorative justice, the study explores the potential benefits of incorporating Ubuntu in addressing the diverse needs of students. Key findings highlight the positive impact on academic outcomes, community cohesion, and the creation of a more culturally responsive educational environment. The study emphasizes the importance of cultural competence, community engagement, and restorative practices in shaping interventions. Significantly, the study contributes to a growing body of literature on culturally responsive social work practices, providing insights that can inform transformative approaches to school social work in South Africa and potentially beyond
Bahraini Teachers’ Perceptions on the Challenges of Remote Teaching for Autistic Children
Full text linkThis research aims to understand how teachers of autistic children responded to teaching remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Six teachers who work in an autism centre took part in face-to-face semi-structured interviews in the Kingdom of Bahrain on their perspectives of teaching autistic children remotely and how their mothers adapted to this mode of teaching. The teachers reported that the unprecedented change was challenging for autistic children and their families, but especially for mothers, who were in all cases, the primary caretakers. The effectiveness of remote teaching depended on the cooperation and the willingness of the mother and child to engage in the process. Overall, teachers agreed that in comparison to face-to-face teaching, remote teaching was not a positive experience.