Exploring the Effectiveness of Practical Assessment Tasks Towards Skills Development in Mechanical Technology Subject

Abstract

In a nation like South Africa, where the GDP and economic development are among the lowest, the lack of skilled workers has a noticeable impact. Skilful workers continue to be imported into the country in fields that are critical to economic development. To have an economic sector that can compete with the current global market conditions and the changing technology, qualified manpower is needed. This study explored the effectiveness of the Practical Assessment Task in Mechanical Technology in secondary schools around Gauteng province. A qualitative research approach was employed whereby a case study research design was used. The study purposively sampled nine teachers from seven different schools located in three districts of Gauteng Province. The study deployed two data collection instruments where face-to-face semi-structured interviews and workshop observations were administered. The results of this study show that the lack of resources in Mechanical Technology and the time allocated for the subject is a major challenge that teachers face. These were made worse by a lack of teacher development in the subject. The said challenges have a major impact that delays proper skills development at the secondary school level, thus rendering the PAT ineffective in addressing skills development. The recommendation is that the Department of Education needs to implement a policy where resources would be prioritised and provide lasting and relevant training to the teachers.