HED4802
Assignment 2 2024
Unique #:
Due Date:2024
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
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, QUESTION 1
(2 ANSWERS PROVIDED)
INTRODUCTION
In considering the enhancement of the current South African curriculum, it's
imperative to include subjects that not only complement the existing knowledge
base but also address the evolving societal, technological, and environmental
needs. Here, I propose four subjects - Financial Literacy, Digital Literacy,
Environmental Studies, and Mental Health Education - alongside their relevance,
justification, and potential impact, each aimed at equipping students with essential
skills and knowledge for modern living.
FINANCIAL LITERACY
Financial literacy is scarcely addressed within the current South African curriculum,
yet it is critical for navigating today's economy. Understanding basic financial
concepts such as savings, investment, budgeting, and taxation is fundamental for
personal financial management and economic participation.
The inclusion of Financial Literacy as a subject is not only realistic but essential,
considering South Africa's economic landscape, characterized by stark inequalities
and high levels of debt among its citizens. Integrating this subject would provide
students with practical skills necessary for financial independence and resilience,
encouraging informed decision-making from a young age.
Teaching financial literacy in schools would empower students to make responsible
financial decisions, foster entrepreneurial thinking, and alleviate poverty by
promoting a culture of saving and investment. It would also contribute to reducing
the economic vulnerability of future generations, enhancing their ability to
contribute positively to the nation's economy.
DIGITAL LITERACY
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, In an era where technology permeates every aspect of life, digital literacy goes
beyond mere computer use. It involves understanding digital safety, ethics, and the
capability to critically assess and utilize information from digital sources.
South Africa, like much of the world, is undergoing a digital transformation that
influences the workforce and society. Thus, implementing Digital Literacy is realistic
and aligns with the need to prepare students for a digital future. It equips them not
only with practical skills in technology use but also with critical thinking skills
necessary for navigating the digital world responsibly.
By integrating Digital Literacy into the curriculum, students will gain skills in
information technology, cyber safety, and digital ethics, providing them with a
competitive edge in the job market. It also prepares them to be active, informed,
and responsible digital citizens, contributing to a more digitally inclusive society.
Furthermore, it would contribute to closing the digital divide, ensuring that all South
African learners, regardless of their socio-economic background, have the
opportunity to develop these crucial 21st-century skills.
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
With global environmental issues like climate change and biodiversity loss affecting
South Africa directly, an understanding of environmental principles is crucial. This
subject could cover local environmental issues, sustainability practices, and global
environmental governance.
The introduction of Environmental Studies is both realistic and necessary. It would
not require an overhaul of the current system but could be integrated into science
and geography curricula with a focus on practical, locally relevant issues. This
approach would raise awareness and foster a sense of responsibility towards the
environment among students.
Environmental Studies would equip students with the knowledge and skills to live
sustainably and to contribute to the mitigation of environmental challenges. It
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