Teachers need scientific and experiential knowledge on learning support : recommendations for a teacher educator

Abstract

This paper discusses teachers’ lack of scientific (theoretical) knowledge on learning support in the classroom. This was one of the key findings of a basic exploratory qualitative study conducted in a South African secondary school. The study employed a Cultural-Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) framework. Six teachers from the school took part in the research. The results underscored their lack of scientific knowledge on learning support, confirming a perceived gap between theory and practice, contrary to CHAT’s take on the matter. The discussion highlights the value of scientific knowledge for the teacher and offers a number of recommendations for the work of the teacher educator.