Promoting Educational Change: Reflections on a Namibian Non-Governmental Educational Organisation 1989 - 1992

Abstract

In this dissertation I set out to reflect on and examine a case study of a Namibian nongovernmental educational organisation (NGEO),the Primary Teachers Project (PTP),from 1989to 1992 focusing on issuesof educational change and the role of NGEO'sin this process. My aim is to highlight some of the factors which helped and hindered the Primary Teachers Project playing a role in educational change. The study focuses on the following four aspects: The Primary Teachers Project'sin-service education and training (INSET)model. The relationship between the Namibian Ministry of Education and the PTP. Funding relationships and their influence on the project's development. Internal dynamics within the Primary Teachers Project The dissertation begins by locating the Primary Teachers Project within the broader geographical, political and educational context of Namibia. The PTP's development between 1989 and 1992is then described. The four focus areas above are highlighted within the case study. Topical reflections on each of these areas are integrated with relevant national and international literature on INSET, educational change and the role of NGEO's. Central learnings with regard to the PTP and its role in educational change in Namibia are raised. Some of the key factors which worked for and against this NGEO's influence on educational change are highlighted. Finally, I make a number of general recommendations with regard to the role of NGEO's in the Southern African context. This study raises key factors relating to the influence of NGEO's on educational change. These are: NGEO's need to develop their understanding of the complexity of educational change processes, in order to inform INSET strategies. School-focused INSET models need to strengthen strategies for follow-up support to assist teachers to implement new ideas and practices. A combination of curriculum-based INSET and organisation development support needs to be provided at the school level to assist educational change. Organisation development processes within NGEO's can strengthen their internal capacity and critically inform their INSET strategies. NGEO's need to research and reflect on their practice and disseminate their findings, in order to improve their own practice and influence educational change at other levels of the educational system, Collaboration between different INSET providers builds the capacity for sustainability of educational change processes at school level and supports NGEO's in disseminating their knowledge and expertise throughout the formal educational system. An enabling INSET policy framework is required at national and local level to support INSET work in schools and assist the work of NGEO's and donors.