|
Mathematics and Science results at secondary school level has long been a cause for concern. A new study, commissioned by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has examined the proliferation of out-of-school programmes that provide extra tuition in these core subjects. Many learners and parents, concerned about the quality of input from the formal schooling system, have participated in these programmes. The DST is considering supporting out-of-school interventions (also referred to as "private" or "supplementary" tuition) as a strategy to improve Mathematics and Science performance at the school level. They commissioned the HSRC to assess the extent, nature and cost of out-of-school interventions in Mathematics, Science and Computer studies for secondary school learners as research into this area of work is limited. The study has found that out-of-school programmes are largely independent initiatives that exists alongside the public schooling system and hence has often been referred to as a ?shadow? of formal public schooling. An area of concern is that private supplementary tuition may worsen social inequalities and interfere with educational processes in the mainstream educational system. The study found that as many as 70 000 learners are already using the services of this fast-expanding sector. Organisations offering out-of-schools programmes include private sector organisations, franchises, online instruction, instruction on television, non-governmental organisations and the Department of Education (DoE) in partnership with service providers and outreach programmes attached to universities and technikons. Geographically, a number of programmes are located in areas of high population densities with a strong focus on metropolitan areas. The province of Gauteng has the majority of providers (30%) followed by KwaZulu-Natal (15%) and Limpopo (15%). The other provinces account for the balance. It is noteworthy that a majority of initiatives focus on Grade 12, and the number of learners per provider tends to increase from Grade 10 through Grade 12. There are more out-of-school programmes in Mathematics and Science than in Computer studies. Most computer programmes focus on general computer skills. A significant number of providers are also providing extra tuition in business-oriented subjects, such as Accounting. For more information:
Read an article based on the study
Download the full study
|
