An exploration of the teaching strategies used by mathematical literacy teachers : a case study of Grade 11 teachers in uMlazi District.

Abstract

This research project was aimed at exploring how teachers teach a specific concept in Grade 11 such that the learners could understand and perform better. The study employed a case study method with two teachers from two different environments, with an intention to check whether the environments also contribute to the choice of strategies employed by each participant. The study also identified the importance of developmental programmes that the Department of Education should provide on a continuous basis to help teachers improve on their lesson presentation using modern teaching strategies such as Information and Communications Technology (ICTs). The assumption that Mathematical literacy could be taught the same way as mathematics by not linking the content to relevant contexts in order to enhance learner understanding was also identified by the study. I also noted that some teachers would adopt a particular teaching strategy based on the fact that learning environment compels them to use that strategy. The findings from this study would be beneficial to Mathematical literacy teachers in realising the importance of selecting a proper teaching strategy for use in the teaching of a specific concept. The findings also shed the light of the challenges faced by some teachers besides the absence of Learner-Teacher Support Materials but due to the learning environment. The study could also inform school management team who take Mathematical literacy for granted on the importance of continued support that should be provided to teachers in order for learners to perform better in this new subject.