Ubuntu as a lens for navigating complexities in teaching economic and management sciences in rural-based secondary schools
Abstract
Ubuntu is an African philosophical framework emphasising community, interconnectedness, and mutual care. This study identified the unique and specific challenges teachers face in teaching Economic and Management Sciences (EMS). This study investigated the complexities of teaching EMS in rural-based secondary schools through the lens of Ubuntu. Additionally, this study explored how the principles of Ubuntu can be applied to address the identified challenges and enhance EMS teaching and learning in rural secondary schools. Consequently, a purposive sampling procedure was used to select 16 grade 8 and 9 teachers who were part of the Community Engagement project to generate data. Qualitative questionnaire instruments were used to gather data. Moreover, the data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that applying the principles of Ubuntu can foster a more supportive and cohesive educational environment, thereby enhancing both teacher effectiveness and learner engagement. This study underscored the potential of Ubuntu to inform educational strategies that are equitable, culturally relevant, and tailored to the needs of rural communities. The implications of these findings suggested pathways for policymakers, educators, and community stakeholders to collaboratively improve EMS education in rural-based secondary schools.
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References
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