Science Education in South Africa

Abstract

This chapter provided an overview of science education in South Africa. From a broad introduction to the country and its current economic, technological and cultural development it is evident that the country's colonial and apartheid past has made a definite impact on the wider education system. This chapter, furthermore, presented a summary of the country's education in terms of school and post-school sectors. In addition, the relevant governmental structures and national qualification framework was explained. Some statistics were presented in terms of education in general as well as with regard to science education. This chapter also considered the wider research landscape in terms of the focus and outputs for the different levels of education. The current situation in the country regarding science education and policy, curriculum, teacher training and student assessment was also discussed. The chapter also provided an overview of science and technology venues and centers as well as the use of emerging technologies for science education in South Africa. Finally, some recommendations are proposed for future development of science education in the country.KeywordsSouth AfricaScience educationPrimary schoolHigh schoolHigher education