Teachers' perceptions on the non- implementation of the alternatives to corporal punishment policy : a case study

• Main Author: Billie, Sikelelwa khuthala
• Format: Others
• Language: English
• Published: University of Fort Hare 2015
• Subjects: Corporal punishment of children; Children's rights; School discipline
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle}

This study aims to identify the perceptions that teachers have regarding the nonimplementation of the Alternatives to Corporal Punishment Policy (ATCP). Using a qualitative research approach, data was collected from teachers in a high school in Mdantsane that is still using corporal punishment. The main tools of data collection used were semi-structured interviews and document analysis. The findings from this study revealed a range of factors that influence teachers not to implement the alternatives to corporal punishment policy. These include: culture, religion, lack of parental involvement, violence in schools and lack of capacitation in teachers on the policy. Moreover the findings of this study revealed that if new policies are imposed on implementers there is bound to be resistance. This study therefore recommends that new policies need to be discussed and agreed upon by both the policy makers and policy implementers. The study also recommends that teachers need capacity building workshops so that they understand the need and the benefits of implementing the ATCP.