’n Perspektief op die voorkoms van dissiplineprobleme in Afrikaanse skole

Abstract

Discipline problems in Afrikaans schools – a perspective

The aim of this article is to report on an investigation into the incidence and extent of discipline problems in Afrikaans schools, especially in the light of fundamental changes that have occurred during the past ten years within these schools. This report is also placed in the context of a reformational perspective on discipline, disciplinary problems and the role of educators in eradicating such problems. An empirical investigation was conducted, in which the experience of 76 principals of Afrikaans schools was probed by means of two questionnaires.

The responses revealed that the overwhelming majority of principals opined that the discipline situation at their schools was either average or good, and that feelings of despondence and defaitism regarding discipline did not exist. In line with new official education policy, they had implemented new procedures, in order to address discipline problems. The incidence of disciplinary problems was not higher in multicultural schools. The incidence was, however, higher at urban than in rural schools. Parental involvement was identified as an essential factor in combatting disciplinary problems in schools. It was also found, on the basis of a Biblically-based view of education, that parents and other educators had a significant role to play in eradicating such problems.