The Post Graduate Diploma in Education of the Zimbabwe Open University as a tool for socio-economic transformation
Journal Title: International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention - Year 2017, Vol 6, Issue 3
Abstract
The Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) at the Zimbabwe Open University is offered over one and half years to holders of university degrees teaching as unqualified teachers. This study sought to explore learners’ perceptions of how the PGDE distance education programme is tool producing socioeconomic transformation of the learners and the nation. The study used qualitative research methodology and the interpretivist perspective. Data was generated through questerviews administered to seven purposively sampled PGDE learners. Convenience sampling was used to select 5 students for focus group discussion, three of whom had also responded to the questionnaire. Data was analysed textually drawing themes according to which data was presented. The results show that learners viewed the PGDE programme as a tool for the acquisition of knowledge, skills, experiences and attitudes necessary for them to become teachers who are more productive and can contribute to the technological advancement of the nation, roles that are critical to national economic development. Besides, the programme was designed as a capacity building programme to meet a specific national developmental need for qualified teachers from a large pool of unqualified teachers teaching in the secondary schools of the nation. The programme also raises learners’ aspirations for promotion and other opportunities paving way for advancement both academically, socially and professionally. Graduates of the programme escape the poverty trap and have higher social esteem. The programme can be viewed as a human capital development programme that contributes to the socioeconomic transformation of the graduates enhancing their contribution to national development.
Authors and Affiliations
Dr Sharayi Chakanyuka, Professor Paul Mupa
Keywords
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