| Summary: | Notwithstanding the possibilities offered by FET subjects in the field of Technology,
the selection of these subjects is not very common which results in a shortage of
skilled trade workers, impacting negatively on the country’s economic growth. The
researcher was therefore interested to establish the determinants affecting Grade 9
learners’ selection of subjects in the field of Technology for the FET Phase in the
Sedibeng area. By means of a literature and empirical study the aforementioned
was investigated.
In the literature study, which provided the foundation for the study, the rationale and
value of Technology education and its infusion in the South African school curriculum
were explored. This was followed by an examination of possible factors impacting
on learners’ subject choice. The literature study was concluded by providing a
concise outline of subject choices in the field of Technology as specified by the
Department of Basic Education.
The empirical study was based on a sequential explanatory mixed methods research
design. The research consisted of two parts. A quantitative survey, using self developed
questionnaires, was conducted in 17 schools among 10 Grade 9
Technology teachers and their learners (n=388) in two districts of the Sedibeng area.
This was followed by a qualitative, phenomenological study in which three
Technology subject facilitators working in the same area were interviewed.
By applying a factor analysis, the quantitative research results revealed that central
and peripheral factors affecting Grade 9 learners’ selection of subjects in the field of
Technology for the FET Phase in the Sedibeng area could be distinguished. The
central factors included the following: competent, compassionate teachers, the
personal and developmental value of the subject, stimulation and the distribution of
information regarding the subject. The range of subjects for the FET phase in the
field of Technology offered by schools, the complexity level of subjects in the field of
Technology, personal interest in a subject and future prospects offered by a subject
constituted the peripheral factors. The qualitative findings were used to clarify,
refine, explain and extend the quantitative results. The research participants in this
part of the study indicated that much could still be done to enhance the competence
and compassion of Technology teachers, that the value of Technology education
should be better justified and that the availability and quality of resources in the field
of Technology education deserves attention. There is thus evidence that much must
still be done to make the selection of subjects in the field of Technology more
attractive to learners.
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