Prospective postgraduate students are encouraged to discover points of contact between their own educational concerns and the thrust of intellectual enquiry in the Faculty. The overarching research focus of the Faculty of Education is the development of human potential in a diverse society.
EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP
Dr Tobeka Mapasa
This theme seeks to engage both academic staff and students as individuals or as groups, who would like to investigate social, economic, political and cultural opportunities, concerns, gaps and challenges, that this interdisciplinary researchtheme could address within current theoretical frameworks, such as transformative adult education, community development, social justice, radical pedagogies and humanising consciousness.
LANGUAGE IN EDUCATION
Dr Eileen Scheckle
Language is the means through which we mediate learning, so it underpins all aspects of education. Through language we position learners, communities, and knowledge and are also ourselves positioned. We all use language in our teaching and so language in education is a core component in all the themes and can range from research focus areas such as: discipline-specific language as in science or biology; literacy practices, such as writing reports or developing reading; multilingual and translanguaging approaches to teaching; or literary appreciation, such as children’s literature. We look forward to sharing and supporting research and reflection on language uses across the education spectrum.
SCIENCE, MATHEMATICS & TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION
Prof Andre du Plessis
This theme focuses on Language and SMT education; improving teaching, learning and assessment in SMT; SMT literacy; Indigenous Knowledge systems and SMT education; Environmental education and Education for Sustainable Development: diffusion of and challenges pertaining to implementation of ICTs for teaching, learning and assessment in SMT Technology and Integrated Computer Technologies (ICTS- Computers) in education; Blended and Online learning; and Curriculum and Teacher Development in SMT education.
Curriculum Studies & Social Justice
Dr Walters Doh Nubia
This theme focuses on research that aims to address the role of education in contributing to a transformed and socially just South African Society, including a focus on learning. Research and curriculum development at school and higher education institutions.
COMMERCE EDUCATION
Dr Badreon Ismail
Commerce Education encompasses the teaching and learning of business-related subjects, including economics, accounting, finance, business management, marketing, and entrepreneurship. In the Faculty of Education, Commerce Education is a vital research field geared towards shaping and enhancing the skills of future commerce teachers. It helps students deeply understand economic systems, markets, and financial principles. This knowledge is crucial for making informed decisions as consumers, investors, and citizens in a global economy. In South Africa, Commerce Education is integrated into the CAPS (Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement) framework, which provides a structured approach to these subjects in schools. For those pursuing careers in education, studying Commerce Education is vital
for developing the skills needed to teach business-related subjects effectively, ensuring that future generations are wellprepared for the challenges of the business world.
FOUNDATION PHASE (FP) EDUCATIONPOSTGRADUATE RESEARCH
Prof Geduld Deidre
The Foundation Phase (FP) Education postgraduate research program focuses on relevant and strategically important themes in education to find solutions to current concerns and promote education development in South Africa. Research activities, which impact the FP research program, are concerned with local and international needs. Scholars involved in the FP at the faculty are engaged with contextual issues that plague the South African society and how our findings could contribute to the international discourses of FP. The strategic importance of research at the FP is not just theoretical, but it has a tangible impact on the development of education, inspiring hope. Our Foundation Phase postgraduate program provides an in-depth exploration of research and advanced practices within this
educational stage. MEd candidates concentrate on applied research, which they can directly apply to leadership roles within diverse educational environments. PhD candidates undertake original research that enhances the understanding and knowledge in the foundation phase of education.
EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY
Dr Nomawonga Veronica Msutwana
The field of Educational Psychology explores the cognitive, emotional, and social processes that undergird learning and teaching. Its central focus is the acquisition and practical application of knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values in real-life situations. Educational psychology is dynamic in nature as it seeks to study and understand the issues and challenges of modern living and education, ultimately adapting to broader societal changes. The contemporary discourses in educational psychology are comprehensive sexuality education, supporting diverse learners and addressing inequalities, fostering sustainability and responsible citizenship, and participatory and critical methodologies on psychosocial issues.
EDUCATION POLICY STUDIES
Prof Shervani Pillay
Education Policy Studies is a critical research area, given that Education policies shape the Education Terrain. Policy making and Policy Studies thus explore socio-political change and how policy makers and policy users shape and are shaped by these changes. As critical influencers, policies and policy makers are always subject to contestation.
CRITICAL EDUCATION STUDIES AND HUMANISING PEDAGOGY
Prof Heloise Sathorar
Both critical theory and critical pedagogy are concerned with countering oppressive powers and resisting dominant cultures and institutions. However, critical pedagogy focuses specifically on education and seeks to provide a response to the oppressive power relations and inequalities existing in educational institutions. Critical Education Studies encourages a critical analysis of educational practices and theories to highlight how these practices continue to perpetuate inequalities. It enables the negotiation and transformation of the relationships involved in classroom teaching, the production of knowledge, the institutional structures of school, and the social and material relationships of the wider community. Humanising Pedagogy has its origin in critical pedagogy and refers to practices that intentionally use the experience, knowledge and realities of students as an integral part of teaching and learning. It encourages teachers to engage their students as active participants in the co-construction of knowledge.
INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
Prof Cina Mosito
In a world where learning does not always occur as theorised, Inclusive Education exposes students to an exploration and critique of factors that could impact learning and development. Candidates who choose this specialisation will undertake research projects through which they will develop a nuanced appreciation of diversity, equity, social justice and inclusion. Involvement in Inclusive Education projects presents a gateway to a variety of career opportunities in education that are complementary to teaching.