Directions

Directions: Journal of Educational Studies Pacific Curriculum Network
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Directions: Journal of Educational Studies no.31, vol.16, no.2, 1994

Title: Teacher education for cultural identity in Fiji

Author: Teasdale, Jennie, Nabobo-Baba, Unaisi
Subject:  Teachers|Training of|Fiji
 Educational anthropology|Fiji
Volume: Directions: Journal of Educational Studies no.31, vol.16, no.2, 1994
Collation: p. 3-13 :

Abstract: This paper examines the relationship between culture and education, and relates it to the South Pacific context, particularly Fiji. It argues that there is a need for balance between western education and the traditional education of Fiji’s non-western cultures. A first, important step in achieving this balance is to enable teachers to recognise and affirm their own cultural identities, and to understand and respect the cultural identities of those around them. The discussion moves to a case study focused on teacher education at the Fiji College of Advanced Education (FCAE) where trainees, predominantly from Fijian and Indo-Fijian cultural backgrounds, undertake a twoyear pre-service programme. Upon graduation, these diplomates teach in selected areas in junior secondary schools. During their course of study at FCAE, trainee teachers undertake core courses in education which are designed in such a way that their own cultural identity is affirmed and their cultural sensitivity towards others is heightened.

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Title: Benefits to host teachers and schools in Fiji from a cross-cultural practicum

Author: Booth, Edward O.
Subject:  Teachers|Training of|Australia
 Student exchange programs|Fiji
Volume: Directions: Journal of Educational Studies no.31, vol.16, no.2, 1994
Collation: p. 14-28 ;

Abstract: An inquiry was held to identify the professional and personal benefits to learners, associate teachers in Fiji, from hosting a practicum programme from an Australian university in their class(es) and schools. Data provided by 38 associate teachers, eight secondary school principals and eight primary school head teachers from 23 schools in the Lautoka area of Fiji report positively on the professional and personal gains from hosting a three-week practicum for Australian student teachers. The teachers felt that the practicum was of benefit to their pupils as well as contributing to their own professional development.

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Title: Distance beyond measure : a view from and of the Pacific

Author: Matthewson, Claire
Subject:  University extension|Oceania
 Distance education|Oceania
Volume: Directions: Journal of Educational Studies no.31, vol.16, no.2, 1994
Collation: p. 29-35 ;

Abstract: The author explores a range of challenges facing a provider of distance education in the region served by the University of the South Pacific.

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Title: A Pacific view : what role distance education?

Author: Fairbairn-Dunlop, Peggy
Subject:  Distance education|Oceania
 Adult education|Oceania
Volume: Directions: Journal of Educational Studies no.31, vol.16, no.2, 1994
Collation: p. 36-56 ;

Abstract: This paper presents a picture of educational needs, and ways South Pacific countries are addressing these needs. It proposes that the two major educational issues facing Pacific nations as they address the task of human resource development are those relating to equity of access to quality education and training, and the appropriateness of curricula. It draws attention to the fact that the educational needs of Pacific Island states are not being and cannot be met through formal schooling systems only. Instead, Pacific communities rely heavily on ‘non-formal’ programmes provided by a large range of non-government organisations (NGOs) and ‘informal’ learning exchanges also. The challenge today is how the new and exciting developments in distance and open education can be adapted and utilised within the Pacific context.

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Title: What's in a picture? : the interpretation of cartoons by secondary school students in Fiji

Author: Schultz, Roland F.
Subject:  Language and languages|Study and teaching|Audio-visual aids
 Caricatures and cartoons
 Cognition
Volume: Directions: Journal of Educational Studies no.31, vol.16, no.2, 1994
Collation: p. 57-66 ;

Abstract: The following report is based on a pilot study conducted in a boys’ secondary school in Suva, Fiji. The study sets out to discover whether common literary devices are recognised by students when presented in the form of cartoons, and whether there appears to be a relationship between any such recognition and a student’s achievement in secondary school English. Although it reports what is an exploratory study and the number involved (N=40) is small, the curriculum development and teaching implications of the findings, if shown to be widespread, are important.

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Title: Computer literacy in the information age

Author: Kandlbinder, Peter
Subject:  Computers|Study and teaching (Secondary)|Fiji
 Computer science|Study and teaching (Secondary)|Fiji
Volume: Directions: Journal of Educational Studies no.31, vol.16, no.2, 1994
Collation: p. 67-74 ;

Abstract: Kandlbinder looks at the important topic of computers in education. He emphasises the need for appropriate use of computers and training in their operation, so that they do not quickly becomeobsolete or under-utilised.

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Title: Reforms in schooling : problems and challenges

Author: Muralidhar, Srinivasiah
Subject:  Educational change
 School improvement programs
Volume: Directions: Journal of Educational Studies no.31, vol.16, no.2, 1994
Collation: p. 75-83 ;

Abstract: Ways of enhancing overall educational quality are explored by Dr Muralidhar. He makes a variety of suggestions relating to teachers, students, and the curriculum, mainly arguing for more creativity, flexibility and attention to student and staff morale.

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Title: Professionalism and partnership : a development dilemma for schools?

Author: Velayutham, Thillainayakam
Subject:  School management and organization
 Teacher participation in administration
Volume: Directions: Journal of Educational Studies no.31, vol.16, no.2, 1994
Collation: p. 84-89 ;

Abstract: There is an increasing trend for school professionals, the members of their school managements and governing boards to formally meet together. These meetings are designed to exchange ideas, to acknowledge each others’ contributions and to examine ways in which they could perform even better. Such occasions bring together the parties involved in the management of educational enterprises. They signify the ongoing process of a collaborative approach to educational development at the community level as well as at the level of a cluster of schools. It shows that such a cluster of schools and their community representatives at the management level could work together cooperatively and collaboratively to provide quality education. This is possible even if initial difficulties arise in such emerging relationships. With commitment to collaborate for the common good of the community, one not only overcomes the initial impediments, but also turns them to one’s advantage. In the development of schools and the high level of quality education that they are able to deliver, one can very well see that the partnership is in fact working well and bearing fruit. This shows that partnership between professionals and the community is not merely a strategy but a process leading to and paving the way for development– a development that is meaningful and satisfying to all concerned.

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Title: Fruit salad algebra : a Fiji experience

Author: Prasad, Kamlesh, Hathaway, Paul T.
Subject:  Algebra|Study and teaching (Secondary)|Fiji
Volume: Directions: Journal of Educational Studies no.31, vol.16, no.2, 1994
Collation: p. 90-102 ;

Abstract: Algebra is frequently introduced with variables representing objects such as a for apples and b for bananas. The name ‘fruit salad algebra’ originates from this common introductory teaching strategy, which has been used for a long time by many teachers, both experienced and newly appointed, in an effort to foster the important real world links. There is strong evidence that traditional algebra leaves students confused. We, the teachers of algebra, need a change. Algebra must be introduced in a manner which will enhance student capability to build on their knowledge when more advanced topics are reached. In the Fiji context this means the textbook must surely be modified to cater for the new ideas in preference to the ‘fruit salad’ approach to the teaching of algebra.

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