The teaching strategies employed by teachers to support learners with learning difficulties in mainstream classes

Abstract

The study focuses on the identification and development of teaching strategies and the factors that impact on the strategies when supporting learners with learning difficulties in mainstream Foundation Phase classes. The study was carried out by interviewing a focus group of Foundation Phase teachers from public schools in the Cape Metropolitan area. The findings from the focus group discussion was verified and amplified by responses from Heads of Department, Foundation Phase within the same area. The research methodology was that of a two-stepped investigation. Firstly, a focus group discussion was conducted using an open ended question framework with the intent of exploring how mainstream Foundation Phase teachers develop teaching strategies and what factors impact on these strategies when supporting learners with learning difficulties. The data collected was analyzed and a qualitative questionnaire compiled for Heads of Department: Foundation Phase to verify and amplify the data collected during the focus group. The study indicated that past and recent teacher training does not equip teachers with the necessary skills to support learners with learning difficulties in mainstream classes. The study also found that current workload levels inhibited further self study. The research findings contributed to the fund of knowledge with regard to the training of Foundation Phase teachers to support all learners, regardless of the degree of learning difficulty, in mainstream classes in public schools.