A panel of academics, curriculum developers and other specialists is to evaluate how effectively OBE is being implemented in the classroom.
JULIA GREY reports
THE panel of 12 tasked with reviewing outcomes-based education is due to be announced today in Cape Town.
The panel will consist of academics, curriculum developers and other specialists in education. The teaching corps will also be represented – which is a particularly welcome feature of the panel, since their main task will be to evaluate how effectively OBE is being implemented in the classroom.
Modifications to Curriculum 2005 are likely – including the possibility that implementation into high schools (grade 8) will not take place next year as originally planned.
Critics of OBE have identified several glaring weaknesses in the approach.
The convoluted and copious terminology is one area that is pointed to as the source of massive confusion on the ground. Many teachers are also intimidated by complex tables of ”specific outcomes”, of which there are arguably an overabundance – 66 in total.
The realities on the ground in South Africa add to the perception that the ambitious OBE-drive is at odds with the limits of the present education system. Schools often lack even the basic facilities, while teachers are often under- or unqualified, and therefore poorly equipped to carry out Curriculum 2005’s grand plan.
Minister of Education Kader Asmal expects to receive a report-back by March, and a way forward is to be formulated by May.
— The Teacher/Mail & Guardian, February 8, 2000.
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