Faculty of Arts and Design
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Item Technical and vocational education and training lecturer learning through work-integrated learning : a study of three colleges in KwaZulu-Natal(2022-09) Mesuwini, Joseph; Thaba-Nkadimene, K.L.; Mzindle, D.This study explored TVET lecturers learning through work-integrated learning (WIL), specifically to establish the nature of their learning and the kinds of knowledge they gain, and further determined how the lecturers understand their learning. WIL describes an approach to career-focused learning, which is often appropriate for attaining discipline-specific practical competence. My study contributes to the literature on how WIL enhances TVET practical knowledge and pedagogy. It also contributes to the perceptions of industry personnel towards lecturers on WIL. The study used a qualitative research approach located in an interpretive paradigm. A face-toface semi-structured interview was conducted with 18 TVET college lecturers from three different colleges and nine industry personnel at different companies. Non-participant observation complemented interviews and enabled capturing social action and interaction as it occurred and provided triangulation. The data were analysed using open coding. The study draws on Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory (ELT), complemented by conceptual frameworks on domains of teacher knowledge. The research identified the following challenges: a lack of technical skills among lecturers in using civil, electrical and mechanical engineering machines and equipment in industry; industry induction processes promoted WIL and self-initiated learning in the TVET sector that was helped a limited number of lecturers; and a lack of lecturer WIL support. There were several findings that reflect on positive impact of the training programme, namely, TVET lecturers who participated in the training gained knowledge about industrial processes; improved knowledge and practice of safe working procedures; the lack of interpersonal skills in the TVET industry was addressed; there was creativity and cost-saving skills among civil engineering TVET lecturers; WIL offered problem-solving skills to TVET lecturers; evidence of the use of work schedules; and training helped in the formation of industry connections. The study recommends adequately capacitating TVET lecturers with technical and soft skills to ensure that they comprehend the use of advanced machinery. The lecturers on WIL need constant support to check the relevance of practical skills received during WIL. To ensure proper training, the study recommends a training model for TVET lecturers during WIL. The study further recommends TVET lecturers to engage in industry placement at regular intervals to maintain current developments in the industry. This study recommends that policymakers, industry and other TVET college stakeholders employ prudent participative and consultative strategies to ensure that TVET lecturers acquire the requisite skills needed as recommended by syllabi. Furthermore, this study recommends a large scale research on all TVET College lecturers in South Africa to understand what and how they learn during WIL; involving other disciplines besides civil, electrical and mechanical trades to check if the outcome will be similar; and explore how industry personnel profiles impact on TVET lecturers learning in the industry during WIL using the same instruments.Item Employer perspectives on sustainable employability skills for TVET engineering graduates in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa(Journal of Critical Reviews, 2021-10-17) Mesuwini, Joseph; Bomani, MapetoTechnical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is arguably the sector closely connected to industry and employers. The development of the South African economy partly hinged on individuals with both technical and soft skills that are needed by industry. Against this backdrop, sufficiently prepared TVET engineering graduates are an important resource for industry development. However, employees note that the TVET sector does not address the skills needs of industry. Addressing the skills needs of industry is critical for the South African economy. This study seeks to explore employer perceptions on sustainable employability skills for TVET engineering graduates in industry and develop appropriate strategies for addressing the industry needs in the context of South Africa. The study adopted a qualitative case study approach in which semi-structured interviews were used to collect empirical evidence from a conveniently and purposively selected sample of twelve (12) employers from industry. The human capital theory constitutes the theoretical framework of the study. Content analysis was used to analyse the data. The findings revealed that employers needed graduates with both technical and soft skills for sustainable employability. TVET engineering graduates fall short of the skills required by industry. The study recommends strong emphasis on career guidance and development to help programme selection. Furthermore, misalignment of skills could be curbed by ensuring strong ties and communication among role players. A revision on the curriculum was necessary to align with the new technology and address the industry needs.Further studies could focus on how companies could be lured to collaborate with TVET Colleges so that their training becomes a meaningful and empowering experience. Future research could also focus on the relevance of the TVET curriculum to industry needs.