Learner Suggestions on Improving the Subject ‘Life Orientation’ with Specific Reference to Career Guidance: A South African Case Study

Abstract

This paper reports on grade 10 learner suggestions on measures that can be taken to improve the subject Life Orientation with specific reference to career guidance. The sample consisted out of 390 learners from the central Free State region of South Africa, the Mangaung area. The majority of the respondents were Afrikaans-speaking females from middle income households. Data was gathered by means of open-ended questions were respondents had to elaborate using narratives. A qualitative thematic discourse analysis was used in data analysis underpinned by the Systems Theory Framework. Three distinct themes emerged namely Intrapersonal, Societal and Environmental-societal Systems suggestions. Broad sub-themes were identified with reference to the second mentioned namely improved linkage between subject and career choices, enhanced focus on careers in class and extension of information to a greater variety of careers. It is suggested that these suggestions be used as a point of departure to facilitate discussions between communities of practice and communities of learners.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n1s1p11