Login | Register

Primary school textbooks in Zimbabwe : an analysis in social context

Title:

Primary school textbooks in Zimbabwe : an analysis in social context

Ryf, Andrea (1997) Primary school textbooks in Zimbabwe : an analysis in social context. Masters thesis, Concordia University.

[thumbnail of MQ25945.pdf]
Preview
Text (application/pdf)
MQ25945.pdf
5MB

Abstract

This thesis is based on an examination of some of the variables that affect schooling in Zimbabwe, a Southern African country. The study consisted mainly of a content analysis of selected primary textbooks for language and gender related matters. It addressed the following questions: (1) Is the material presented as if the learners were first language speakers of English, the language of instruction? (2) How are girls and women portrayed verbally and pictorially? The selected grades 1, 4 and 7 English and science textbooks were first examined broadly for overall features such as visual readability and order of content. Subsequently, all textbooks and the corresponding syllabi were examined for awareness of and directions regarding preparation for the language needs of the science curriculum. A focus on science vocabulary and the portrayal of males and females in the science texts concluded the content analysis. Additional data on the actual use of texts and possible gender bias of teachers in the classroom were gathered through collaboration with graduate students at the University of Zimbabwe. Teachers' views on science education, the science texts, and boys and girls' abilities and performance were obtained. The results point to the existence of a good potential for improved access to the curriculum by coordinating the language needs of English and other subjects. Furthermore, more work needs to be done in Zimbabwe, as elsewhere, to portray males and females in less stereotypical roles.

Divisions:Concordia University > Faculty of Arts and Science > Education
Item Type:Thesis (Masters)
Authors:Ryf, Andrea
Pagination:vii, 118 leaves ; 29 cm.
Institution:Concordia University
Degree Name:M.A.
Program:Educational Studies
Date:1997
Thesis Supervisor(s):Cleghorn, Ailie
Identification Number:LB 3045 R94 1997
ID Code:242
Deposited By: Concordia University Library
Deposited On:27 Aug 2009 17:10
Last Modified:13 Jul 2020 19:46
Related URLs:
All items in Spectrum are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved. The use of items is governed by Spectrum's terms of access.

Repository Staff Only: item control page

Downloads per month over past year

Research related to the current document (at the CORE website)
- Research related to the current document (at the CORE website)
Back to top Back to top