Exploring the ecosystemic variables in the implementation of a study and thinking skills programme

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT:This study was undertaken with the view to explore the ecosystemic variables that mayimpact on learners' acquisition and generalisation of the study and thinking skills that theyhave been introduced to. In addition, my own journey of growth as a reflective practitionerhas been recorded.A literature review was undertaken in order to obtain a perspective of research conducted inthis field. I fulfilled the dual role of researcher and reflective practitioner which enabled meto use both the 'objective knowledge' gained from the literature review and my 'personalknowledge' which resulted from teaching experience. I selected the ecosystemic frameworkas the preferred educational psychological framework with which to approach this study.The nature of this research study is post-modernist, phenomenological and emancipatory. Ihave taken a qualitative stance in an attempt to explore, firstly, the learners' impressions ofthe usefulness of the programme and secondly, the variables that may be impacting on thelearners' ability to acquire and generalise new strategies. The information has been gatheredfrom my observations and questionnaires.The research report describes my observations of the ecosystemic variables that affected theimplementation of a study and thinking skills programme, and the learners' impressions of theprogramme. In addition, I reflected on my journey through this research process. Suggestionswere made as to how a study and thinking skills programme could best be implemented in aschool; and as to the usefulness of emancipatory action research in South Africa.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University