(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2006-03) Scholtz, Zena; Waghid, Yusef; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Education Policy Studies.
This thesis explores the possibility of developing a mentorship programme for teachers
through a reflexive democratic practice in order to support student teachers at the Cape
Peninsula University of Technology (Bellville Campus), when they do their internship in the
host schools. It argues that critical dialogue and reflection are at the core of practices that are
more democratic and that the development of a mentorship programme within the context of a
community of practice holds transformative possibilities for teaching and learning. Aspects of
current practice at the schools and at the academy, which may enhance or hinder the
development of a reflexive democratic practice, are identified. It is hoped that a critical
analysis and reflection of the research findings will contribute to the improvement of the
practice teaching experience of the student teachers as well as contribute to the development
of an effective mentorship programme.