Integration of project-based learning in secondary school commercial curriculum

Abstract

This paper proposes the integration of project-based learning in secondary school commercial curriculum delivery following the assertion that learners of commercial subjects lack the practical skills that are imperative in the current economic difficulties that South Africa is facing. The study adopted the qualitative research methodology and was guided by the learner-centred theory pioneered by Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Ten commercial departmental heads from ten secondary schools in Capricorn South District were purposively sampled to provide their perspectives on the barriers hindering effective commercial curriculum delivery in secondary schools. The results show that there is a gap between theory and practice in the delivery of commercial subjects. Data were collected through interviews and document analysis, and was analysed using thematic content analysis. The study revealed lack of support for commercial educators, a gap between theory and practice, subject combination issues, language barriers, content gaps and insufficient resources. The project-based learning model is therefore proffered as an alternative model to close the gap between theory and practice in commercial subjects. The results were important in highlighting the downward trend of commercial subjects in schools and the need to revitalise the commercial stream by integrating project-based learning as an option for economic revival in the country