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Social Constructivist Pedagogy in Business Studies Classrooms -- Teachers' Experiences and Practices

Authors :
Naidoo, Devika
Mabaso, Mbali
Source :
Perspectives in Education. 2023 41(2):62-76.
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

Social constructivism is the dominant pedagogical theory endorsed in educational discourse today. This study set out to examine teaching and learning in Grade 11 business studies classrooms from a social constructivist perspective. The data were obtained through document analysis, semi-structured interviews, and classroom observations. While the teachers were positive towards social constructivist pedagogy, they were not familiar with the epistemology that underpinned its emergence. The learning of multiple perspectives through discussion, a key tenet of the social constructivist theory of learning, was not evident. Teachers indicated that they preferred direct instruction, as it enabled curriculum coverage and better control over learners. Teachers viewed social constructivist approaches as slowing down syllabus coverage and leading to loss of control in overcrowded classrooms. Limited time and higher workload due to larger classes were common deterrents.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
0258-2236 and 2519-593X
Volume :
41
Issue :
2
Database :
ERIC
Journal :
Perspectives in Education
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
EJ1398612
Document Type :
Journal Articles<br />Reports - Research
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.38140/pie.v41i2.7151