Today's teachers are expected to meet the needs of a range of diverse and multicultural learners in their classrooms, ensuring that they create favourable conditions for learning. This can be a daunting task, particularly for beginners, as it is only through teaching practice that student teachers develop important professional knowledge about themselves, fellow teachers, learners, their communities and the teaching profession as a whole. Teaching practice in an African context is an essential guide for both students and experienced teachers, providing the insight and skills they need to navigate South African schools. Teaching practice in an African context is informed by the principles of Africanisation and ubuntu, and is written in a clear, conversational style. It encourages reflection on the various practical aspects of teaching, leading to better education practice and thus improving performance. Teaching practice in an African context is aimed at undergraduate education students as well as qualified teachers already in practice.

Educational preparation is currently steered by two oppositional forces in contemporary society: global connectedness and local diversity. The traditional notion that literacy entails the technical ability to decode abstract letters in order to recognise and form words and sentences is contested by the pedagogy of multiliteracies - that there is a wealth of linguistic and cultural pluralism in the world and that people can be part of multiple life contexts that overlap in interest, affiliation and education. Multiliteracies in education develops a pedagogical framework to weave multiliteracies into the fabric of the South African classroom. Multiliteracies in education takes the approach that knowledge is contextually situated and rapidly changing and diverse, which calls for new skills and flexibility, and the ability to work in teams. Chapters are sequenced according to the four pillars of the multiliteracies framework: overt instruction, situated practice, critical framing and transformed practice.

An in-depth discussion of the teaching of English as home language in grades 1, 2 and 3, as described by the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) of 2011. Focuses on the practical side, with a strong research foundation that will enhance knowledge of literacy and how to teach it. Includes assessment of each language skill and a wealth of examples. Aimed at educators in search of basic and new ideas for the teaching of English as home language or as first additional language in the foundation phase; parents doing home schooling, and lecturers and students of the foundation phase at tertiary level.

The labour law applicable to the education environment is comprehensive and covers a vast variety of aspects that everyone within that environment will encounter at one time or another. In the past, most employees in education may have had a vague understanding of particular laws and regulations regarding conditions of employment, but now it is essential to have a basic understanding of all relevant laws and regulations that apply. Teachers, especially, could find themselves in a proverbial minefield if they do not ensure that they have a working knowledge of education law. This is evidenced by the numerous lawsuits, disputes, mediations, disciplinary hearings and often unpleasant implications for individuals (and their families) that arise from charges against offenders in all sectors of education. Legislative changes resulting from altered circumstances in education have led to the need to be constantly aware of the implications and applications of such changes. This urgent need applies not only to principals, but to everyone involved in education. On the one hand the responsibility for correct application and implementation of education legislation lies with the governing body and the head of an institution, but on the other hand it affects the people who work there. The authors of this book have a keen understanding of this vital need, and address it most effectively from their own invaluable experience that stems from practical involvement and thorough research in the field of education. A sound working knowledge of all the aspects that are addressed in this book undoubtedly improves the quality of teaching and learning in the classroom - a critical goal that needs to be pursued. It also creates a safer environment in which everyone can operate. I am personally very grateful for the contribution that this handy guide makes to the ultimate quality of education in South Africa.

Build learning environments that support Black girls' excellence and academic achievement. In this thought-provoking and illuminating book, former educator and social justice advocate Monique W. Morris addresses the harmful policies, practices, conditions, and assumptions that too often criminalize Black girls' behavior and steer them down "school-to-confinement pathways" in disproportionate numbers. The key to disrupting such punitive pushout is for educators to develop meaningful relationships with Black girls-connections that are grounded in cultural understanding and focused on helping Black girls develop their identities as valued individuals and contributors to the larger community. Such relationships, Morris argues, can shift Black girls' schooling from a punishment-oriented experience to one that is joyful, healing, and transformative. Along with her own research and experience, Morris explores the topic through in-depth conversations with three distinguished educators and clinical practitioners: Venus Evans-Winters, Janice Johnson Dias, and Kakenya Ntaiya, who provide insights about the challenges of educating Black girls and uplifting accounts of success in promoting their excellence and achievement. These conversations and takeaways for practice are essential guideposts for any teacher, school leader, and policymaker committed to creating learning environments that dispel damaging attitudes and practices and allow Black girls to flourish.

Today's school principals face unprecedented challenges that can overwhelm even the most dedicated among them. What can they do when their initial enthusiasm for the job begins to deflate, when the demands of the job seem to outnumber the rewards? How can they regain the energy that propelled them early in their career? The Principal Reboot answers these questions with specific advice on how to reignite passion in addressing the many aspects of the principalship, including: Defining a school's values and mission through rebranding. Strengthening relationships with staff, students, and communit. Leading renewed efforts to improve instruction. Developing teacher leadership. Using data effectively and innovatively. Improving operational procedures and processes. Sharing the wisdom gained from colleagues and her own experience as a principal, author Jen Schwanke offers an engaging, accessible account of the ups and downs of the job, along with helpful, step-by-step suggestions for how to reinvigorate a flagging career and restore the joy that comes with making a school the best that it can be.

Elgar Research Agendas outline the future of research in a given area. Leading scholars are given the space to explore their subject in provocative ways, and map out the potential directions of travel. They are relevant but also visionary. This innovative Research Agenda critically reflects on the state of the art and offers inspiration for future higher education research across a variety of geographical, disciplinary and theoretical perspectives. It explores the impact of Covid-19, and the need to re-engage with the Global South and reconsider conventional paradigms and assumptions. Leading international contributors address a set of salient issues, ranging from research on macro-level themes to meso and micro-level phenomena. Chapters examine the changing patterns in globalization, Europeanization, challenges to mobility and open systems, and trends in system governance, funding, and quality assurance. Organizational change, research performance, university networks, curriculum improvement and global citizenship are also analysed. This forward-thinking Research Agenda aims to reach beyond the Western perspective on higher education and will be an insightful read for both seasoned scholars and newcomers with an interest in higher education policy and research in a changing global context.

What motivates teachers to put forth their best efforts in the classroom How can principals understand what drives each teacher and use that information to encourage practices that lead to the best outcomes for students? If teachers are struggling, what can principals do to help them succeed? These questions and many more are thoroughly explored in The Teacher's Principal, an invaluable roadmap that all principals can use not only to support teachers who are doing good work, but also to help those who are faltering to get back on track. Taking a compassionate, holistic view of what drives teachers, veteran educator Jen Schwanke explains their three key motivators: Purpose, which reflects teachers' foundational values and reasons for teaching; Priorities, which reveal how committed teachers are to student learning; and Patterns, or the visible habits and routines that propel teachers' daily decisions. Understanding these "three Ps" will help principals ensure that teachers' practice aligns to what's best for students--and that teachers are happy, motivated, and effective at their jobs. Filled with real-life examples, practical suggestions, and hard-won lessons, this book walks principals of all grade levels through dozens of powerful strategies for supporting teachers in ways that benefit everyone in the school community.

Since 1994, there have been few attempts to address the theoretical and practical foundations of effective management in early childhood education (ECE) and the Foundation Phase in South African schools, yet the survival and success of ECE centres and schools depends on the ability of education managers to meet the needs of the children/learners, educators, parents and the community. Management in early childhood education provides a comprehensive overview of the management of ECE centres for children from birth to nine years old. This book is a resource and reference guide which includes amongst others Internet sources and templates such as inventories, financial planning, parents' newsletters and agendas of staff meetings. It focuses especially on the South African context by referring to appropriate examples and scenarios of real-life situations in this country as well as the newly introduced Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS). It also offers practical applications for the many theoretical frameworks in South African schools. All the chapters in this third edition have been updated, and each one begins with learning outcomes and key terms. Management in early childhood education is aimed at student teachers, educators, administrators and child caregivers.

Much has been written about children's literature as a genre; but very little material exists on how to use it in diverse South African classrooms where teachers prepare young learners in literacy skills. Introducing Children's Literature equips the prospective teacher with a strong theoretical introduction to the genre and details how children can be encouraged to become enthusiastic readers. This books also provides insight into the developmental stages of a child; the history of South African literature, with particular reference to the oral tradition; the role of the adult in establishing a reading culture; practicalities of introducing stories and literature to children in different phases from diverse contexts; the use of illustrations and technology to enhance other literacies; techniques of storytelling and selecting appropriate texts; the influence of the hidden curriculum in terms of moral development, stereotyping, sanitising and representation. The authors collectively have decades of experience in teacher education, teaching at the chalkface and raising their own children to enjoy reading. Many practical suggestions for using children's literature in the classroom makes this book a necessity for teachers, student teachers and parents.

Making is a dynamic and hands-on learning experience that directly connects with long-established theories of how learning occurs. Although it hasn't been a focus of traditional education or had a prominent place in the classroom, teachers find it an accessible, exciting option for their students. The maker movement brings together diverse communities dedicated to creating things through hands-on projects. Makers represent a growing community of builders and creators-engineers, scientists, artists, DIYers, and hobbyists of all ages, interests, and skill levels-who engage in experimentation and cooperation. Transferring this innovative, collaborative, and creative mindset to the classroom is the goal of maker education. A makerspace isn't about the latest tools and equipment. Rather, it's about the learning experiences and opportunities provided to students. Maker education spaces can be as large as a school workshop with high-tech tools (e.g., 3D printers and laser cutters) or as small and low-tech as the corner of a classroom with bins of craft supplies. Ultimately, it's about the mindset-not the ""stuff.""In Learning in the Making, Jackie Gerstein helps you plan, execute, facilitate, and reflect on maker experiences so both you and your students understand how the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of maker education transfer to real-world settings. She also shows how to seamlessly integrate these activities into your curriculum with intention and a clearly defined purpose.

What does research tell us about the effects of school leadership on student achievement? What specific leadership practices make a real difference in school effectiveness? How should school leaders use these practices in their day-to-day management of schools and during the stressful times that accompany major change initiatives? Robert J. Marzano, Timothy Waters, and Brian A. McNulty provide answers to these and other questions in School Leadership That Works. Based on their analysis of 69 studies conducted since 1970 that met their selection criteria and a recent survey of more than 650 building principals, the authors have developed a list of 21 leadership responsibilities that have a significant effect on student achievement. Readers will learn: The specific behaviors associated with the 21 leadership responsibilities. The difference between first-order change and second-order change and the leadership responsibilities that are most important for each. How to work smart by choosing the right work to focus on to improve student achievement. The advantages and disadvantages of comprehensive school reform models for improving student achievement. How to develop a site-specific approach to improving student achievement, using a framework of 11 factors and 39 action steps. A five-step plan for effective school leadership. Combining rigorous research with practical advice, School Leadership That Works gives school administrators the guidance they need to provide strong leadership for better schools.

This is an accessible guide for all trainees and teachers, providing practical, evidence-informed ways to support neurodivergent learners that will also benefit all pupils. It takes a close look at the theory around autism, including procedural /semantic memory, executive functioning, expressive/receptive language, sensory integration, behaviour as communication, and the importance of emotional literacy, co-regulation and resilience. It then delivers plenty of practical advice and suggestions to incorporate these ideas into day-to-day teaching, presenting high quality strategies to promote positive relationships and maximise teaching and learning outcomes. The book moves away from labels and encourages good inclusion practice to address the full range of needs in both mainstream primary and secondary classrooms.

In building a more democratic society and an equitable and quality education system, South Africa has embraced the implementation of inclusive education in which the needs of all learners must be accommodated. This move has placed increasing pressure on teachers to adapt their instruction, the curriculum and the classroom environment to increase learner involvement and to minimise the exclusion of those children who experience barriers to learning. Against this backdrop, Learner support in a diverse classroom provides a good balance between the theoretical knowledge needed to understand what takes place when a child learns, and the hands-on provision of assessment and support for the learner. Structured according to the SIAS (Screening - Identification - Assessment - Support) document, which underpins learner support in the South African classroom, this important resource offers both creative solutions and solid foundations to any teacher wishing to bring out the best from all their learners.

Design thinking is a person-centered, problem-solving process that's a go-to for innovative businesses and gaining traction with school leaders interested in positive change. But understanding design thinking is one thing; actually putting it in play is something else. Authors Alyssa Gallagher and Kami Thordarson offer educators a practical guide for navigating design thinking's invigorating challenges and reaping its considerable rewards. They dig deep into the five-stage design thinking process, highlighting risk factors and recommending specific steps to keep you moving forward. The 25 downloadable and reproducible tools provide prompts and supports that will help you and your team: Identify change opportunities. Dig deeper into complex problems. Analyze topics to isolate specific challenges. Connect with and solve for user needs. Apply what you've learned about users to design challenges. Maximize brainstorming power. Create and employ solution prototypes. Pitch solutions and secure buy-in from stakeholders. Organize and analyze user feedback. Map out a solution's specific actions and resource requirements. Design Thinking in Play is a must-have for education leaders who are tired of waiting for someone else to solve their problems and ready to take action, have fun, and leverage collective insight to figure out what will really work for their school, their colleagues, and their students.