Browsing by Author "Forrester. A. T. A. E."

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    Perspectives on literacy in support of lifelong learning
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2002-12) Forrester. A. T. A. E.; Rossouw, W.; Hall, Riana; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education . Dept. of Educational Psychology.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study highlights focal issues of literacy and lifelong learning within the context of the formal schooling system. Problems and issues pertaining to policy and practice are examined within the broad framework of a selected set of perspectives on literacy. The nature of the problem of literacy worldwide, and in South Africa in particular, provides sufficient scope to investigate literacy in terms of research, theory and practice. The synergy between curriculum change and social transformation in South Africa which lies embedded within Outcomes-based Education (OBE), creates possibilities for developing functionally literate citizens who are able to negotiate their lives successfully and independently. The qualitative and interpretative nature of this literature study entails a process of researching and comparing the different levels of literacy within a framework of multiple perspectives. These different perspectives on literacy also highlight contrasting conceptualisations, and consequent definitions of literacy emphasise the importance of both context and content. What being literate means, thus, lies embedded within these conceptualisations. Finding new ways of seeing and doing literacy, in order to improve literacy policies and practices, is at the heart of this research endeavour. The "golden thread" running through the different perspectives signifies the functional role of literacy and suggests a stronger emphasis on viewing literacy as a functional and social practice underlying lifelong learning in the broadest possible sense. Teachers have a cardinal role to play in building capacity in and adding value to the South African citizenry and in supporting learners to develop the necessary functional and critical literacy skills to express themselves adequately on a written and and spoken level. The objective of this study is to offer a broader conceptualisation of literacy which embraces it as a lifelong endeavour, honed through use and purpose. The significant differences between the traditional and the more modern approaches to literacy development underscore the emphasis on its functionality and potential for human resource development. All these issues have implications for literacy policy and practice. Acquiring literacy skills entails taking into consideration that: different levels and standards of literacy skills are possible, subject matter differs and different purposes for literacy exist. Only when people are equipped with the personal knowledge, skills, attitudes and values that enable them to live as productive and self-sufficient citizens, able to make informed decisions and responsible choices, can sustainable, social transformation become a reality.