Browsing by Author "Du Plessis, Minette"
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- ItemGeletterdheidsondersteuning vir 'n leerder met Downsindroom(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2002-12) Du Plessis, Minette; Rossouw, M. W.; Hall, Riana; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education . Dept. of Educational Psychology .ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The literacy development of learners with special educational needs has traditionally been approached from a behaviouristic framework, which led to the reductionistic teaching of language, focussing on smaller units and sub-skills in order to facilitate a simplification of the learning process. During the 80's changes in the area of literacy development occurred, placing the focus on the whole language approach. This approach (embedded in a constructivistic framework) emphasises the holistic and integrated nature of the language and literacy system, which seems to hold advantages for learners with special educational needs. This also includes learners with Down Syndrome since literature shows that a phonetic approach (which is reductionistic in nature) does not seem to benefit these learners in terms of literacy development and support. The purpose of this study therefore was to ascertain the usefulness of the whole language approach in the development of literacy skills of a , learner with Down Syndrome. This was accomplished by means of a literature review and learner support twice a week. The research methology took the form of a single case study consisting of a learner with Down Syndrome within an inclusive classroom. The qualitative nature of the research, which were descriptive and explanatory, made it possible to provide a rich holistic description of the findings. Data derived from various sources were analyzed according to the constant comparative method in order to identify the main and sub-categories. The findings of the study showed real development in the literacy skills of the learner with Down Syndrome. Noticeable, was the fact that the learner's reading skills developed faster in relation to the other skills. This is supported by the literature review. A fifth dimension, namely personal development was identified which promoted development on the cognitive as well as affective area. Although the scope of the study was limited, it seemed that the whole language a