An exploration of strategies used by schools to cope with indiscipline : a case of rural secondary schools in Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore strategies used by schools to cope with indiscipline in rural secondary schools in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Indiscipline in secondary schools of Limpopo Province in Sekhukhune District has become an evil and dangerous influence that spreads and affects learners’ behaviour and their moral upbringing. The Department of Basic Education brought alternatives to indiscipline but these measures seem not to be working as learners continue to challenge teachers. Since corporal punishment was abolished in 1994, schools are expected to come up with strategies to deal with indiscipline. The high prevalence of indiscipline in schools in Limpopo Province has propelled the researcher to explore strategies used in South African rural schools in Sekhukhune District of Limpopo Province to cope with indiscipline as it affects teaching and learning. The research question was: What are strategies used by schools in Moutse Cluster to cope with indiscipline? The sub questions were: What does the policy say about addressing indiscipline? What forms of indiscipline prevail in schools? What strategies do schools use to cope with indiscipline? The study will be beneficial to policy makers, curriculum implementers, curriculum developers and advisors, the Department of Education and schools. The study was conducted in Limpopo Province, in Moteti area and Elandsrooring at Groblersdal. It was limited to senior phase teachers, teachers in disciplinary committees and class teachers. The study used qualitative research since the title sets out to develop understanding of individuals and events in their natural setting. The study used semi-structured interviews as a method of data collection. It also used purposive sampling, hence the research question sought responses from teachers and learners who had more knowledge and experience in indiscipline. The study found that there exist strategies used by schools in order to cope with indiscipline although the phenomenon is out of control. There are internal strategies such v as detention and the use of period registers that are applied in order to cope with indiscipline. There are strategies beyond the school which can be applied such as the police and involving parents. This study also made additional findings with regard to forms of indiscipline experienced by schools under this study, the effects of indiscipline on teaching and learning and how education policies influence the behaviour of learners. Key concepts: Indiscipline, disruptive behaviour, learners, coping strategies, teachers, secondary schools.