Complexities in the availability of mathematics and physical science teachers in rural high schools within the King Cetshwayo District

Abstract
Research indicated that South Africa currently lacks the potential to develop economically without importing international technical and technical resources. If this country is to be a part of the technologically advanced global village, science must educate policy and accelerate the transition to a mathematical and critical thinker society. This is critical since a lack of experience affects the country's overall economic outlook. The study examined the complexities in the availability of Mathematics and Physical Science teachers in rural high schools within King Cetshwayo District while focusing on exploring the factors responsible for the poor performance among Grade 12 learners. Results show that rural environment demotivates teachers. Most science and mathematics teachers only stay for two to three years, while only a few stay for five years or more. It is therefore difficult to keep science subject educators in rural schools. The study also established that fewer students are taking mathematics and science-related subjects at the universities for their degree qualifications, which adversely affects the supply of teachers in rural based high schools. In some cases, this has led to schools discontinuing the teaching of mathematics and physical science. The study recommends that teachers in rural areas should be motivated by offering them enough support and giving them incentives or allowances. The department of education should provide resources to equip the school’s science laboratory for science teachers to deliver results.
Description
A thesis submitted in fulfillment of the academic requirements for the degree of Master of Education in the Department of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in the Faculty of Education, University of Zululand, 2022.
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