Educators' perceptions of the role of learner representatives in School Governing Bodies

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Date
2003
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Abstract
The aim of this study was to pursue an investigation into educators' perceptions of the role of learner representatives on school governing bodies. From the literature study it became clear that educators perceive the effectiveness of [earner representation on school governing bodies in various ways. Some educators regard it as a mechanism that forms a link between learners and the governance of the school. Others perceive learner governors as playing the role of an "ambassador" by making the reporting of learners' problems and suggestions to the governing body possible. The literature review revealed that the successes of school governing bodies depend on the willingness, the sense of responsibility and full commitment of all the members. Where there is co-operation among all the members of the school governing body, educators perceive the school governing body as an creative organization. Lack of knowledge in meeting procedures and governing responsibilities, together with their minor status, can be seen as the main obstacles in the effective participation of learner governors in school governance. The effectiveness of learner representatives on the governing body is influenced largely by the latitude that adult governors allow learner governors in meaningful discussion and decision-making. Forthe purpose of the empirical investigation a self-structured questionnaire, to be completed by secondary school educators, was utilised. The completed questionnaires were analysed by means of descriptive statistical methods. In conclusion a summary was presented on the findings of the literature and empirical study and the following are some of the recommendations that were made: • . Workshops must be organised for the training of governing body members in the necessary governance skills. Support personnel must be made available to governing body members to assist them in acquiring relevant governing skills- • Further research should be conducted concerning the role of learner representatives in school governing bodies.
Description
Submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree MASTER OF EDUCATION in the Department of Educational Psychology of the Faculty of Education at the University of Zululand, 2003.
Keywords
School management and organization, School governing body
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