Masters Degrees (Mathematics and Computer Science Education)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10413/7141

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 109

An exploration into Grade 11 learners' use of diagrams when solving probability problems in mathematics in a school in Umlazi District in Durban
(2017) Shoba, Mfanimpela Patrick.; Mudaly, Vimolan.
The research study was conducted in a school in Umlazi district of education in Durban in the province of KwaZulu-Natal. Grade 11 mathematics learners in this school provided data for this study. The qualitative research design was chosen for this study because the investigator wanted to capture the experiences of the participants with the aim of responding to the research questions. Data for this study was collected using two task-based activities, two semi structured interviews, and an observation schedule. Six grade 11 mathematics learners were purposively sampled from the population of grade 11 mathematics learners. The responses of the participants were audio-taped and later transcribed by the investigator to generate the data for the study. The data gathered from the participants through the task-based activities, the interviews, observation, and document analysis revealed that diagrams as visual representations aided grade 11 learners during probability problem solving. It was also discovered that the English language in which the probability problems were asked posed a challenge for the learners as they struggled to understand the problems. Participants understood problems that had diagrams associated with them better than probability problems that were without diagrams. Based on the findings of the study, the use of diagrams by both educators, during teaching and setting of questions, and by learners during probability problem solving, play a critical role towards finding the correct solution. It was, therefore, recommended that diagrams as visual representations should not be separated from probability problem solving. It was also recommended that further study is required to investigate the effects of using a language that is foreign to the problem solver in probability problem solving.
Exploring the use of GeoGebra to enhance Grade 12 learners’ knowledge construction of trigonometric 2D and 3D concepts in one school in King Cetshwayo District.
(2023) Mbatha, Philisiwe Promise.; Ngcobo, Annatoria Zanele.
It is evident in the literature that mathematics is the school subject that learners struggle with the most, especially the concepts of trigonometry. This study explored the effectiveness of GeoGebra as a pedagogical tool to enhance Grade 12 learners’ conceptual understanding of 2D and 3D trigonometry. The study was located within the interpretive paradigm and a qualitative case study methodology was employed. Thirty Grade 12 learners were purposively selected from a high school in the King Cetshwayo District Municipality of the province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. Data was collected using activity worksheets administered as a pre-test and a post-test, with lessons conducted using GeoGebra. Data was also collected using semistructured interviews, focus group interviews and observations. The study was underpinned by APOS (Action, Process, Object and Schema) theory, which was used to analyse the mental constructions displayed by participants. To understand and explain the extent to which participants had been able to make mental constructions, a genetic decomposition model was used. The genetic decomposition model developed by Arnon et al., (2014) was used to understand and describe the extent to which participants were able to make the mental structures necessary to master a particular mathematical concept. The study found that learners’ conceptual understanding of 2D and 3D trigonometry improved from the pre-test, administered before they had engaged with concepts using GeoGebra, to the post-test, which was administered after learners had integrated GeoGebra into their conceptual development. This indicates that GeoGebra may have facilitated improved knowledge construction for these learners. These findings have implications for mathematics educators, curriculum developers and further researchers, as they offer insights into the potential benefits of incorporating dynamic software tools like GeoGebra to enhance the teaching and learning of trigonometry in the high school context. Ultimately, this study contributes to the on-going discourse on effective technology integration in mathematics education and offers practical recommendations for educators seeking innovative approaches to engage and empower their students through trigonometric learning experiences.
Exploring Harry Gwala District Further Education & Training mathematics teachers' experiences of enhancing their competencies of teaching Euclidean geometry proofs during the Corona virus pandemic lockdowns.
(2024) Mbanjwa, Thulisile Happiness.; Goba, Barbara Busisiwe.
The 21st century is characterised by substantial societal, economic, and technological changes, fostering an era of continual evolution and innovation. These transformations pose acknowledged challenges, all of which were emphasised by the disruptions triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns. This phenomenological case study investigated teachers' experiences of enhancing their competencies of teaching Euclidean geometry proofs during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns, a period when face-to-face workshops were prohibited. Data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires administered to 35 mathematics teachers across 15 schools in Harry Gwala District, KwaZulu-Natal. Additionally, three Further Education and Training (FET) mathematics teachers underwent in-depth interviews during the data collection process. Employing a mixed-method approach, teachers were purposively selected from four circuits within the Harry Gwala District, aligning with the interpretive paradigm. Quantitative data was organised using the technological pedagogical and content knowledge (TPACK) framework, while qualitative data underwent interpretative phenomenological analysis. The study found significant challenges in online teaching, particularly in deep rural areas, due to factors such as poor network coverage, limited data availability, scarce resources, low socio-economic status of learners, and negative learner attitudes. Despite these challenges, teachers utilised various digital tools and platforms, including WhatsApp, YouTube, virtual workshops, Google Classroom, Sketchpad, GeoGebra, and smartboard softwares. These tools played a crucial role in enhancing teachers' understanding of teaching Euclidean geometry proofs during COVID-19 lockdowns, improving communication skills and technological pedagogical knowledge. Overall, the strategic use of these digital resources elevated teaching competencies despite uncertainties during the lockdown period. The findings of this study offer practical, empirically based guidelines for education stakeholders and educators seeking to enhance teachers' competencies in online teaching. Understanding how teachers navigated the challenges of online teaching within the context of geometry education during these unique circumstances offers invaluable insights into effective strategies and practices for teaching in similar scenarios.
Teachers' perceptions of the effectiveness of in-service education and training (inset) for senior secondary school mathematics teachers in the greater Durban area.
(1991) Ntenza, Philemon Simangele.; Winter, Paul.; Graham-Jolly, Mike.
The project of the Shell Science Centre (SSC) started in 1985, in response to the high failure rate in mathematics amongst black pupils, the perceived inadequacy of college mathematics curricula for prospective mathematics teachers, and generally because of the destructive policies of apartheid and the inferior system of education for black pupils. One of the programmes is to organise and run in-service education and training (INSET) courses for senior mathematics teachers, in collaboration with teachers' Action Committees, with the hope of effecting curriculum change and teacher behaviour in the classroom. It is important, therefore, for the SSC to know whether the INSET programmes meet the needs of the teachers, especially those who graduated from colleges of education in KwaZulu with a Secondary Teachers' Diploma, since they form the majority of the INSET participants. Hence, this investigaton aimed to survey and analyse: (i) mathematics teachers' and college mathematics lecturers' perceptions of the college mathematics curriculum; and (ii) mathematics teachers' perception of the effectiveness of INSET courses. Initial data, about the effectiveness of INSET courses and the pre-service training of prospective mathematics teachers, was gathered through informal talks with mathematics teachers during INSET courses. Issues and themes that emerged were "fleshed out" using unstructured interviews with five (5) mathematics teachers. From these it was possible to draw up a detailed structured interview schedule, which was administered to a further seventeen (17) mathematics teachers in senior secondary schools in Umlazi and KwaMashu townships. Data, about the college mathematics curriculum, was also gathered by means of structured interviews with college mathematics lecturers, in the two colleges of education in KwaZulu, and with graduate teachers with a Secondary Teachers' Diploma in mathematics. Among the significant findings were: o Limitations in the college mathematics curriculum in as far as the mathematics content and the methodology courses were concerned; o Problems with SSC INSET courses such as teaching methods suggested by INSET tutors, timing of INSET courses, group work, etc.; o Problems with teaching mathematics at school such as the shortage of mathematics textbooks, large classes, inadequate resources, etc.; and o Problems with incorrect 'overlearnt' rules from inadequate college mathematics textbooks. The implications of these findings for the SSC were considered. It is suggested inter alia that the SSC should adopt strategies which would emphasize direct contact with the pupils of INSET participants. It is hoped that these strategies will help correct the various problems experienced by mathematics teachers in the schools.
Exploring lecturers’ interpretation and implementation of the intended NCV mathematics curriculum at a TVET college in KwaZulu- Natal Durban.
(2022) Ngidi, Lungile.; Mthethwa, Themba Mngomeni.
The aim of this study were to explore lecturers’ interpretation and implementation of the NCV Mathematics curriculum at a TVET college in KwaZulu Natal Durban. The researcher employed an interpretivist paradigm using a qualitative research approach so as to allow greater understanding of the lecturers’ interpretation and implementation of the curriculum. Data was generated using document analysis and semi-structured interviews. Document analysis was carried out in order to determine what should be taught in NCV Mathematics classroom, and how it should be taught. The semi-structured interviews addressed questions about lecturers’ understanding of the curriculum, their views about the purpose of the curriculum and the challenges they encounter implementing the curriculum. Due to COVID 19 pandemic, interviews were held online via Zoom. The analysis of the curriculum document revealed that NCV Mathematics curriculum is a structure of applied Mathematics, including problem solving and Mathematical modelling, with various contexts including real-life context. It is an integrated-type of curriculum that encourages learnercentred approach. The interviews have shown that lecturers harbour different views about the curriculum, where lecturers reported encountering challenges during its implementation. NCV Mathematics emerges as something unclear in terms of its purpose. Most of the lecturers argue that they don’t understand the purpose or the intentions of the curriculum designers, since this involves aspects that are difficult for students.
A case study: the use of GeoGebra to alleviate learner difficulty in learning the similarity of triangles in a South African grade 9 classroom.
(2022) Mpanza, Nompumelelo.; Shongwe, Michael Bafana Mthembiseni.
The mixed methods study investigated the use of GeoGebra as a dynamic geometry software (DGS) to alleviate the learning similarity of triangles. A mixed methods philosophical framework in the form of an exploratory case study was used to conveniently and purposively select a sample of 60 Grade 9 learners enrolled at Sondelani Full-Service School (pseudonym), a township school in the Pinetown district in KwaZulu–Natal province, South Africa. During this research, GeoGebra and the concept of similarity of triangles were introduced to the participants. Then, participants answered several (Euclidean geometry) Similarity Achievement Test (SAT) questions prescribed by the National Mathematics pacesetter for Grade 9 and 10. A 10-item Likert scale questionnaire intended to elicit participants’ attitudes about GeoGebra and its impact on Euclidean geometry and mathematics was administered to these participants. The questionnaire also included four open-ended items, asking participants to reflect on the application of GeoGebra. The analysis of SAT data revealed that performance was higher after GeoGebra instruction (𝑀 = 22.50) than during traditional instruction, which did not feature GeoGebra (𝑀 = 11.65). Thus, it was found that the use of GeoGebra is an appropriate tool to increase achievement in learning geometry concepts; to promote accuracy, visualization; learner participation; and to create enjoyment and learner interest towards learning mathematics. It is recommended that mathematics teachers need to use GeoGebra for effective teaching and learning of similarity of triangles.
Grade 10 learners’ experiences of the teaching strategies in algebra used by their mathematics teachers: a case study of two schools in the Pinetown District.
(2022) Amaefule, Remigius Nnadozie.; Goba, Busisiwe.
This study makes use of social constructivism theory as the lens to explore Grade 10 learners’ experiences of learning algebra in two selected High Schools in one township in Pinetown Education District, KwaZulu-Natal Province. The purpose was to examine learners’ perceptions of strategies that their teachers use in teaching Grade 10 algebra and the way it supports or inhibits their learning of the topic. algebra is considered to be an important topic in mathematics. In High School mathematics curriculum, algebra is particularly important at Grade 10 because, it is at this time the Grade 10 learner moves to higher concepts and advance in their learning of algebra. However, observations indicated that among other areas that posed challenges to High School learning of mathematics in the district, learners’ perception of algebra as difficult topic was a major factor. This prompted interest in the present study that used qualitative research approach and a case study design to explore in-depth, the learners’ experiences in order to better understand the issues in teaching and learning Grade 10 algebra in the township schools. Questionnaires were developed for purposes of individual interviews given the limitations the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions imposed on conducting physical contact interview and focus group methods originally designed. Hence the remote use of qualitative questionnaire instruments was employed to collect the data. Participants were purposively selected through written correspondence assisted by school administration in both schools. The sample comprised of 20 Grade 10 learners, 5 male and 5 female learners, each from the two schools. Choice of the schools was decided based on convenience because of their nearness to the researcher. The data was analysed using thematic analysis and triangulated at data source level. Findings show that some of the Grade 10 learners found algebra as a boring topic because they do not understand the algebraic concepts due to the teachers teaching approach. It was also found that these experiences impacted them negatively and positively in their perceptions of learning algebra. The findings implications for teaching Grade 10 algebra are that (a) given that element of algebra is important in high school mathematics, finding ways of improving teachers’ ability to use effective strategies to teach for learners’ understanding of the topic at this crucial level is important for the township schools, (b) in addition, in the teaching algebra concepts, teachers should consider how to effectively differentiate for those learners that struggle to understand the teaching in English language. Deliberate efforts should be made to explain concepts in ways, and using examples and in language levels that connect with these learners. Therefore, this study recommends the following: (a) the Grade 10 teachers are encouraged to always use variations of teaching strategies to teach the Grade 10 algebra so that learners can appreciate the learning; (b) Home language need to be involved in teaching mathematical concepts at Grade 10 curriculum so that both languages, i.e., home and second language would be simultaneously used to enable the learners consolidate their learning.
On the geometry of locally conformal almost Kähler manifolds.
(2020) Khuzwayo, Ntokozo Sibonelo.; Massamba, Fortuné.
In this work, we study a class of almost Hermitian manifolds called locally conformal almost Kähler manifolds. These are almost Hermitian manifolds which contains an open cover fUtgt2I and a family of C1 functions ft : Ut ! R such that each conformal metric gt on Ut is an almost Kähler metric. Locally conformal almost Kähler manifolds also falls under a class of locally conformal symplectic manifolds. More precisely, locally conformal almost Kähler manifolds are manifolds whose fundamental 2-form is locally conformal symplectic. We first recall some of the existing geometric properties of almost Hermitian manifolds. Then further use these properties to derive those of locally conformal almost Kähler manifolds. A new example of a locally conformal almost Kähler manifold is given. We further investigate the relationship between the covariant derivative and the Nijenhuis tensor on a locally conformal almost Kähler manifold. The equivalence of the Nijenhuis tensor de ned on each Ut and the one de ned globally is also proven. The relationship between the curvature tensors induced by the two conformal metrics on a locally conformal Kähler manifolds are considered. In particular, we show that a locally conformal almost Kähler manifold is an almost Kähler manifold under some curvature conditions. To achieve our goal, we first prove the relation between scalar curvatures and together with the corresponding scalar-curvatures and of a locally conformal almost Kähler manifold. Moreover, among other results, we also investigate the canonical foliations of locally conformal almost Kähler manifolds. Accurately, we give necessary and sufficient conditions for the metric on a locally conformal almost Kähler manifolds to be a bundle-like for foliations F.
On the numerical solution of the Lane-Emden, Bratu and Troesch equations.
(2020) Sithole, Phumla Remember.; Sibanda, Precious.; Goqo, Sicelo Praisegod.
Many engineering and physics problems are modelled using differential equations, which may be highly nonlinear and difficult to solve analytically. Numerical techniques are often used to obtain approximate solutions. In this study, we consider the solution of three nonlinear ordinary differential equations; namely, the initial value Lane-Emden equation, the boundary value Bratu equation, and the boundary value Troesch problem. For the Lane- Emden equation, a comparison is made between the accuracy of solutions using the finite difference method and the multi-domain spectral quasilinearization method along with the exact solution. We found that the multi-domain spectral quasilinearization method gave a better solution. For the Bratu problem, a comparison is made between the spectral quasilinearization method and the higher-order spectral quasilinearization method. The higher-order spectral quasilinearization method gave more accurate results. The Troesch problem is solved using the higher-order spectral quasilinearization method and the finite difference method. The solutions obtained are compared in terms of accuracy. Overall, the higher-order spectral quasilinearization method and multi-domain spectral quasilinearization method gave the accurate solutions, making these two methods to be the most reliable for these three problems.
On multivariate overlapping grid spectral quasilinearization methods for problems in cavity flow.
(2022) Nzama, Sibonelo.; Sibanda, Precious.; Goqo, Sicelo Praisegod.
We investigate fluid flow in cavities with different boundary conditions. Three cavity flow problems of varying complexity are investigated in this study. In the first problem, a flow filled with a porous medium, and with adiabatic and impermeable walls is considered. The left wall is heated. For the second problem, we investigate free convection in an enclosed square with porous medium and nanofluid. We assume that the side walls have a high fixed temperature and a lower fixed temperature for the horizontal walls. The third problem is more complex, and it involves investigating a square enclosure with porous medium, a top moving wall, and the side walls heated with a sinusoidally varying temperature. We analyze the effect of fluid parameters on the fluid flow characteristics such as the streamline distribution, isoconcentration, isotherms, local Nusselt number, skin friction, and the local Sherwood number. The flow equations are solved using two recent numerical techniques, namely the multivariate overlapping grid spectral quasilinearization method (MOGSQLM) and the multivariate spectral quasilinearization method (MSQLM). The MOGSQLM is an extension of the MSQLM with improved accuracy. Using the two methods we determine the solution, the residual solution errors and the computational time to achieve a converged solution. The MOGSQLM is found to be more accurate, and for this reason, only the MOGSQLM is used to numerically solve the third problem. The MOGSQLM was found to be the better method in terms of convergence, accuracy, and CPU time. The changes in the Rayleigh number alter the flow pattern from circular to elliptic with stronger circulation in the core region.
On zero-dimensionality of remainders of some compactications.
(2022) Nogwebela, Gugulethu Manase.; Mthethwa, Simo Sisize.
A compactication of a topological space is a dense embedding of the space into a compact topological space. We study dierent methods of compactifying a topological space with the focus on zero-dimensionality of the remainder. Freudenthal compactication is known as a maximal compactication with a zero-dimensional remainder and is guaranteed to exist for rim-compact spaces. It is shown that this compactication can be characterized using proximities. In fact, there is a one-to-one correspondence between compactications and proximities and, in particular, between compactications with zero-dimensional remainder and zero-dimensional proximity. Almost rim-compact spaces are spaces that are larger than the rim-compact spaces and they are shown to also have a compactication with a zero-dimensional remainder. But these do not exhaust spaces that have a compactication with a zero-dimensional remainder, for example, recently it was found that spaces that lie between the locally compact part and its Freudenthal compactication also have a zero-dimensional remainder. It is known that the Freudenthal compactication is also perfect, we study the relationship between maximum compactications with a zero-dimensional remainder and the perfectness of these compactications.
Exploring Grade 9 mathematics learner performance in schools that participated in the 1+9 programme.
(2021) Ngcobo, Edward Sazi.; Ngcobo, Annatoria Zanele.
The main aim of this research was to explore Grade 9 learners’ mathematics performance in schools where teachers participated in the 1+9 programme, which was designed to equip teachers with strategies to teach mathematics in the Senior phase(Grade 7-9). This study is guided by the qualitative method within an interpretive paradigm. The conceptual framework adopted by the study is a compressive model of the education system (Shalveson, 1989). This study took place in three schools selected from uMgungundlovu District in KwaZulu-Natal, using two data collection methods, namely the document review where the researcher took the marks schedules of the grade nine learners for the year 2016, 2017 and 2018. The researcher then randomly selected that marks of 42 learners in each of the three school, put them in tables and graphs to compare the performance in each of these years. In the second method the researcher conducted the interviews with ten learners and three teachers that were part of the 1+9 programme. Guided by the aim of the study, the following objectives underpinned this research: (i) To determine the extent of improvement in learner performance in mathematics post the 1+9 programme; and (ii) To determine the Grade 9 learners’ competence to solve mathematical problems after their teachers took part in the 1+9 programme. In order to unpack the objectives and carry out an in-depth analysis of the phenomena of this study, which is exploring Grade 9 learner performance post the introduction of the 1+9 programme, throughout this study the researcher asks the following research questions: (a) How did the implementation of 1 + 9 programme improve learner performance in mathematics at grade 9 level?and (b) What do Grade 9 learners’ written responses reveal about their competency in mathematics after the implementation of the 1+9 programme? The research findings reveal that the development programme for teachers must be continuous, to ensure that they are up to date with the current status of mathematics, so that they will implement the current knowledge for teaching. The findings that have resulted from this study will serve to recommend to professional development organisations, the Department of Basic Education and other stakeholders that professional development of teachers takes place to ensure that they use the trackers, lesson preparation plans and pace setters, and have a common assessment each term in Grade 9, to ensure that the teaching and learning of mathematics is taken seriously. The findings of this research could serve to encourage the Department of Education and the Departmental Head to carry out thorough monitoring of the educators’ work, to ensure that it is done properly.
Exploring pre-service teachers’ understanding of similarity and proofs in Euclidean geometry.
(2022) Mbatha, Mduduzi Mhlengi.; Bansilal, Sarah.
This qualitative study explores pre-service teachers’ understanding of similarity and proofs in Euclidean geometry in one South African university from KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) province. Such insight is vital for addressing pre-service teachers’ geometric knowledge, which has been found lacking. The research participants were 34 pre-service teachers (PSTs) in their first year of study towards a Bachelor of Education degree specialising in mathematics at the FET phase. A pen and paper test and semi-structured interviews were employed in gathering the required data for this study. The Van Hiele levels of geometric thought were used as a theoretical framework, which formed the basis for the analysis and discussion of findings. The findings indicated that most pre-service teachers performed adequately on familiar items but struggled with those unfamiliar, which were not typical grade 12 examinable questions. A follow-up of semi-structured interviews was conducted with seven PSTs of mixed abilities to probe the originality of their written responses. Although all interviewed PSTs indicated an improvement when responding to research items verbally than in writing, they did not reach the expected acquisition necessary to teach geometry effectively. Overall, this study found that many PSTs displayed poor levels of understanding similarity and proofs, including (1) limited understanding of the definition of similarity to triangles; (2) poor understanding of how to prove two figures are similar; (3) the haphazard use of geometric theorems in devising proofs; (4) a display of higher Van Hiele levels of understanding for familiar items but lower levels of understanding for unfamiliar items. These findings raised concerns about this group of PSTs teaching geometry, especially if certain concepts require more complex skills that are slightly beyond the secondary school curriculum. It is recommended that professional teacher education training offered to pre-service teachers should include aspects such as (1) Improving PSTs’ geometry content knowledge, (2) Teaching geometry for understanding and (3) Improving PSTs’ written mathematical responses. These factors may be pivotal in improving pre-service teachers’ geometric knowledge beyond the scope of the secondary school curriculum.
Exploring the effectiveness of parent engagement in the teaching of foundation phase geometry.
(2021) Hopkins, Siobhan Kerry.; Mudaly, Vimolan.
Learners need mathematics to fulfil academic and vocational dreams, to learn to think in a particular manner and to survive in a world where so many mathematics skills are prevalent. Learners show improvement when they understand the mathematics they are doing, and it is not merely seen as a set of rules. When you connect the dots meaningfully for the learners using diagrams, technology, physical objects, and everyday examples, they start to really understand and problem solve. However, in my experience, the one area where many learners were not showing significant improvement and seem to lack understanding, was geometry. This sparked a sincere interest in studying the cause of the geometry struggle and means of addressing it. The more I looked into it, the more research was pointing to the fact that geometry understanding has to start at a foundation level. You cannot expect learners to engage in complex geometric proofs involving difficult deductive reasoning when they do not know and understand the basics leading up to this. Thus, this master’s thesis explores the teaching of foundation phase geometry and how intervention can happen at the grass roots in order to see long term benefits. One of the essential ingredients in developing correct concept formation at foundation phase, is having access to hands on activities through adult-guided play. The reality in South Africa, is that the ratio of learners to teachers is too high to allow this to happen in a meaningful way in the classroom. Too little time is assigned to geometry in the foundation phase curriculum as more important numeracy concepts and learning to read and write, are prioritized. However, lockdown brought to the foreground, the important role that parents can play in improving the education of children. Although not all parents were effective teachers, surprisingly, many very effective in assisting in the educational process of their child when asked to do so. This study therefore looks at parents’ input as an interventive means of assisting in the process of teaching foundation phase geometry. Although we all know the ideal solution is a highly qualified teacher in a small classroom with all the necessary resources, this is only a reality for about 3% of the South African population. This study is seeking intervention for the other 97% who do not have the privilege of the ideal. This study was a case study using qualitative methodology. Video analysis of one-on-one time with parents and their children was used to analyse the effectiveness of parent involvement. Teacher interviews were used to assess how space and shape is currently being taught and parent questionnaires were used to gather data on how parents felt about being involved in helping their child with space and shape learning. This study showed that through simple communication with parents, regardless of what socio-economic background they came from, effective activities can be designed to bring about meaningful scaffolding in geometry learning. Although video-analysis revealed very positive findings, parents felt that many other parents would not help their own children due to circumstantial constraints.
Teaching computer applications technology in an under-resourced school: a teacher’s self-study.
(2021) Memela, Balungile Pinky.; Masinga, Lungile Rejoice.
My personal history self-study research focus was on teaching Computer Applications Technology in an under-resourced school. This study aimed to ascertain what I can learn from my personal history, to improve my CAT teaching practice in an under-resourced school by exploring effective teaching strategies. I was frustrated by my CAT learners, who were performing poorly in CAT due to the ineffective implementation of the CAT curriculum, thus producing the poor quality of CAT results. Adopting a Sociocultural perspective on teaching and learning assisted me in understanding that learning is constructed through social and cultural interaction and learners learn more efficiently by using tools to solve problems by using resources available to them in their environment. My first research question was: What can I learn from my personal history about teaching Computer Applications Technology in an under-resourced school? This question allowed me to revisit and re-examine my learning and teaching experience from when I first fell in love with technology at home and through doing practical subjects in high school and college studying computer studies. And as a novice teacher, I have a better understanding of strategies I can employ to improve my teaching of CAT in an under-resourced school. Throughout this self-study research journey, I worked closely with my critical friend, who was also a master’s student. I used various data sources to generate data for this self-study, such as my reflective journal, photographs, memory drawings, and a collage. My second research question: How can I improve my teaching of Computer Applications Technology in an under-resourced school? To respond to this question, I worked with my college friend, who is also my colleague, deputy principal, and a former CAT learner, as my participants. The different discussions and activities we had for this study helped me understand how they perceived and received my CAT teaching in an under-resourced school. I used multiple self-study practices that helped me generate data for my research. I used artefact retrievals such as photographs, a stiffy disk, and collage making. From my personal history selfstudy and contribution from my participants, I identified four significant learnings regarding teaching and learning of CAT in an under-resourced school: (i) CAT teacher as a resource manager, (ii) Time allocation according to policy document versus disadvantaged school and (iii) Collaborative learning as a response to limited computer resources. As a CAT teacher, I learned that I serve as a human resource that can connect other resources through interacting and collaborating with others to help me facilitate valuable teaching support to learners.
Exploring the challenges experienced by Grade 8 learners when learning angles associated with parallel lines in geometry.
(2021) Dlamini, Xoliswa.; Naidoo, Jayaluxmi.
This research study explored challenges experienced by Grade 8 learners when learning angles associated with parallel lines in geometry. This research study was conducted in a school situated in the city of Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa to understand factors that shape learner’s experiences towards learning angles associated with parallel lines in geometry. This research study was framed within the social constructivist theory which guided and examined the systematic explanation of the experiences of Grade 8 learners when learning angles associated with parallel lines in geometry, by following certain principles outlined by the social constructivist theory. This research study was situated within the interpretivist paradigm and focused on an explanatory qualitative case study to, explore learners’ experiences and get an in- depth understanding of the challenges they are experiencing when learning angles associated with parallel lines in geometry. This research study used inductive data analysis and evaluation process to sort data generated from the 36 purposely selected Grade 8 learners. The process of data analysis and evaluation was done through the use of Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS document), questionnaire, worksheet and the semi-structured interview schedule. The findings of this research study confirmed that there are challenges experienced by 8 learners when learning angles associated with parallel lines in geometry. It was recommended that this research study be conducted at a larger number of diverse schools across the country, to explore more challenges experienced by Grade 8 learners when learning angles associated with parallel lines in geometry.
An exploration of a visualization intervention in a Grade 7 mathematics classroom in the Pinetown District.
(2021) Bakare, Onozare Mercy.; Mudaly, Vimolan.
With the growing research on visualization in mathematics, it is important to understand how visualization intervention strategies impact learners' solving and success of mathematical word problems. This study focused on exploring a visualization intervention in a grade 7 mathematics classroom in the Pinetown District of KwaZulu-Natal. The methods used by learners and their effectiveness in solving word problems were investigated as this formed the basis of this study. Their understanding of the methods and strategies chosen was revealed through an interview, leading to a visual intervention on how they (learners) can become better visualizers. Boonen, Van der Schoot, Van Wesel, De Vries, and Jolles, (2013, p. 57) asserted that the difficulties learners encounter in solving word problems emancipate from lack of understanding of the problem text, identifying solution-relevant components, the relations between them, and making a complete and clear representation of the situation described in the problem. Good problem solvers ought to have a good understanding of the text and strategies required for every given problem, and for this to take place, learners are required to think visually. Visualization and its importance in mathematics or in solving mathematical word problems cannot be overstressed. It is a skill that learners ought to possess to become good problem solvers. Therefore, it is not enough for learners to possess these skills and form visual images, but they also should be able to use the skills when required and for analytical reasoning. Hence, the reason for conducting this study is for learners to be taught these skills and strategies through an intervention process and determine the effectiveness of the intervention given to them. Data was gathered using a qualitative research method. An interpretative approach was used, which helps to understand what is being understudied. Learners were given word problems to solve, and a one-on-one open-ended interview was conducted on randomly selected learners from the class. This research was conducted in the naturalistic setting of theparticipants; the sample was purposive and convenient. The conclusion drawn from the investigation findings has shown that learners do not have a natural inclination to use diagrams or any visualization form before the intervention strategies were introduced. Secondly, evidence suggested that learners' strategies in completing the initial task administered were not all effective. Finally, there was a significant improvement in learner’s performance, their use of visuals, and the accuracy of their methods after the intervention process.
An exploration of the extent Grade 9 mathematics teachers engage with learners’ errors in the teaching and assessment of mathematics.
(2021) Frimpong, Tawia Iddrisu.; Ndlovu, Annatoria Zanele.
This study explores the extent to which Grade 9 mathematics teachers engage with learners’ errors in the teaching and assessment of mathematics. This qualitative study adopted an exploratory case study design and an interpretivist focal lens. The sampling was purposive, and the participants were three Grade 9 mathematics teachers, one from each of three high schools in the Harry Gwala District of KwaZulu-Natal province. The instruments used to generate data were semi-structured interviews and classroom observation. The findings of the study revealed that the level or the extent to which teachers engage with learners’ errors depends on 1) teachers' understanding of remedial teaching, which informs 2) teachers’ ability to deal with learners’ errors, and 3) teachers’ mathematical knowledge, which is the content and pedagogical knowledge of teaching mathematics. Teachers also engage with learners’ errors for the following reasons: 1) to provide remedial teaching, 2) to correct learners' mistakes or errors, 3) to provide feedback to learners, and 4) to promote peer learning. The findings of the study further revealed that teachers have limited time to engage with learners’ errors, since they are time-bound to curriculum coverage or to finish the Annual Teaching Plan However, it is important to note that the teachers who participated in the study do not have much knowledge about remedial teaching; therefore, they do not depend on or use remedial teaching to engage with learners’ errors. The rationale for why teachers engage with learners’ errors that emerged from the study includes to correct learners’ errors, to provide feedback to learners, and to enhance remediation. It is recommended that teachers must be educated on remedial teaching, how it is done, and its importance in helping learners to learn better. Also, the Department of Basic Education should design the Annual Teaching Plan to include remedial teaching for at least two to three hours, to be carried out before teaching moves on to the next topic. These three hours can be split further into lessons where a teacher can spend at least 10–15 minutes to explain errors before moving on to the next concept.
Exploring teachers’ use of visualisation tools when teaching Grade 9 problem-solving in mathematics. a case of Umlazi District Dinaledi schools in South Africa.
(2020) Shoba, Makhosazana Faith.; Naidoo, Jayaluxmi.
This study focused on exploring Grade 9 mathematics teachers’ use of visualisation tools when teaching problem-solving in their classrooms. This issue has been a challenge in South Africa, particularly in matric and grade 9 mathematics Annual National Assessment. The use of visualisation when teaching problem-solving in the mathematics classroom has been viewed as critical to learner’s performance, in response to the abstract nature of mathematics. However, problem-solving and the importance of the use of visualisation is emphasised in the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement for the Senior Phase. Moreover, it is also included in every topic of the learners’ Grade 9 mathematics workbook for everyday classroom activities. Therefore, this study aimed to answer the questions of what visualisation tools teachers use and how they use these when teaching problem-solving. Lastly, why do they use them during their lesson in their classroom? Polya’s 4-step problem-solving and Activity theory was used as a theoretical framework for this study. A qualitative case study of two Dinaledi Comprehensive Technical High School in Umlazi District was conducted to explore the use of visual tools by five grade 9 mathematics teachers during their teaching of problem solving. Teacher’s questionnaire, classroom observations, and semi-structured interviews for teachers were used to generate data. The findings revealed that mathematics teachers do teach problem solving in their Grade 9 classrooms as stated by the policy document. However, the use of visualisation tools in the mathematics classroom seems to be infrequent. Therefore, the teachers highlighted the lack of resources and understanding of what problem-solving is, as a challenge to their use of visualisation tools. However, the study suggested that the department of Kwa-Zulu Natal education should provide in-service training for Grade 9 teachers on the effective use of visualisation tools when teaching problem-solving. It was also suggested that schools should provide resources that can enhance problem solving, and mathematically related resources for their mathematics lessons. It was further suggested t schools to have a mathematics classroom, which will provide a mathematics atmosphere with relevant mathematics resources for effective and efficient teaching and learning of mathematics.
Application of bivariate spectral quasilinearization method to second grade fluid flow equations.
(2020) Dlongolo, Simphiwe Gloria.; Sibanda, Precious.; Goqo, Sicelo Praisegod.
In this study, the steady flow of a second grade magnetohydrodynamic fluid in a porous channel is investigated. We further investigate the hydromagnetic flow of a second grade fluid over a stretching sheet. The partial differential equations that describe the flows are solved numerically using the bivariate spectral quasilinearization method. The method is extended to a system of non-similar partial differential equations that model the steady two dimensional flow of Falkner-Skan flow of an incompressible second grade nano fluid. The work is also concerned with heat and the mass transfer from the electrically conducting second grade magnetohydrodynamic fluid over a stretching sheet. The sensitivity of the flow characteristics with respect to the second grade fluid parameter, magnetic field parameter, thermal radiation parameter, and the chemical reaction parameter are investigated. The accuracy of the numerical method is determined using the residual error analysis.

Browse

Recent Submissions