Stellenbosch University Cover and Plagiarism Declaration page for students

Complete the following questions to indicate that the assignment you have submitted is your own work:

Course name Advanced Diploma in Natural Sciences teaching

Module name and WIL 133453 - 171

code
Content Content-based assignment: Reflection on
“EDUCATOR’S PERSPECTIVE”
SU number 23084030

First name(s) Pfarelo Witney

Surname Tshidzumba

Tick the YES box next to each statement below to accept it, or NO if you do not. NB: Your
signature at the bottom serves as consent to the validity of all information submitted on this
document. You can and will be held accountable for it.

1. I have read and understand the Stellenbosch University Policy on Plagiarism and Yes No
the definitions of plagiarism and self-plagiarism contained in the Policy
Plagiarism: The use of the ideas or material of others without acknowledgement, 
or the re-use of one’s own previously evaluated or published material without
acknowledgement or indication thereof (self-plagiarism or text-recycling)].

2. I also understand that direct translations are plagiarism. Yes No

3. Accordingly all quotations and contributions from any source whatsoever Yes No
(including the internet) have been cited fully. I understand that the reproduction

of text without quotation marks (even when the source is cited) is plagiarism.

4. I declare that the work contained in this assignment is my own work and that I Yes No
have not previously (in its entirety or in part) submitted it for grading in this
module/assignment or another module/assignment. 

Signature: Date submitted:

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1. Reflect on if and how Educators Perspective module contributed to your professional
learning by giving you:
This module has significantly enriched my professional learning in the following ways:
Newly Acquired Knowledge: Educators Perspective module has significantly enriched my
understanding of the challenges and difficulties within the South African education system. It
shed light on critical issues such as teacher accountability, school governance, the impact of
class size on learning outcomes, catering to special needs for learners in education, and the
importance of tailored support for diverse group of learners. The discussion on the quintile
system and its impact on resource allocation has deepened my awareness of the socio-
economic disparities that exist in South African schools.
New Skills: The module has equipped me with valuable knowledge and skills on the
complexities of the South African education landscape. Currently, I have a deeper
understanding of the importance of teacher accountability and roles for effective school
governance to provide quality education. I'm more aware of the challenges posed by larger
class sizes and resource constraints, and I'm actively seeking innovative ways to address these
issues.
New Insights in Teaching Practice: Looking at the role of the South African Council for
Educators (SACE) and the Norms and Standards for Educators have provided me with a clearer
understanding of the professional development framework in South Africa. I now Understand
the importance of continuous learning and professional growth, I'm committed to actively
engaging in relevant development opportunities and staying updated with advancements in
pedagogy and subject knowledge.
New approach/strategy to my teaching or my learners' learning: This module has prompted a
shift in my perspective towards a more proactive and informed approach to addressing
educational challenges. I'm now better equipped to navigate the complexities of the South
African education system and work towards providing quality education for all learners.

2. Reflect on how you have already implemented, or intend to implement, the aspects
mentioned in (1) in your teaching practice.
To Cater for Special needs Learners, I am currently looking into enrolling in specialized training
programs focused on inclusive education and supporting learners with diverse needs. This
training will equip me with the skills and strategies to effectively cater to special education
learners. I have attended a workshop for science educators in July at university of
Witwatersrand, this is a step to ensure that my professional development activities align with
the standards set by SACE as well as to enhancing my teaching competencies. In terms of
lesson delivery, I now embrace a more inquiry-based teaching approach, encouraging students
to ask questions, investigate, and draw conclusions independently. This has fostered critical
thinking and problem-solving skills in my learners.

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Dealing with bigger class size I try to also Keep materials and plans for smooth instruction. I
make sure that I give precise instructions through various communication methods. Teach
using interactive methods to keep students actively involved, giving individual attention as
much as possible to try to connect with each student, monitor progress, and provide extra help.
3. Reflect on the advantages and challenges, positives and negatives you experienced in
doing online sessions for educator perspective module.
Advantages of Online Sessions:
Flexibility in scheduling and access to resources, fostering independent learning.
Online sessions provided flexibility in terms of scheduling, allowing us to balance work and
personal commitments. Online session has offered easy access to a wide range of resources,
including video lectures and digital materials, and this has encouraged independent learning
and self-discipline.
Challenges of online session:

 Technical problems: internet connectivity and software glitches, has occasionally

disrupted the learning experience.
 Limited Interaction: Online sessions lacked the closeness of face-to-face interactions,
which has hindered spontaneous discussions and clarifications.
 Reduced Engagement: Maintaining engagement in online sessions, particularly for
longer periods was little bit challenging.

4. Please share ideas on improving this module academically to ensure that teachers benefit
from it.

 Hybrid Approach: A blended model that combines the strengths of both online and
face-to-face sessions could provide the best of both worlds. This approach will offer
flexibility while maintaining personal interaction.
 Enhanced Technical Support: To mitigate technical issues in online sessions, providing
comprehensive technical support and training for participants is essential.
 Ongoing Support: Provide additional resources and support for us as students post-
diploma, such as access to a knowledge-sharing platform or community can ensure that
teachers continue to benefit from the module's content and insights.
 Interactive Online Platform: Creating an interactive online platform where we can
engage in discussions, share resources, and collaborate on projects could enhance the
online learning experience.
 Diversified Assessment Methods: Incorporating various assessment methods, such as
group projects, presentations, and quizzes, can cater to diverse learning styles and
abilities.