Exploring history teachers’ understanding of the role of professional learning communities in enhancing curriculum implementation

Abstract

The present study examined the understanding of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) among history teachers in South Africa. The research focused on a sample of 10 teachers from five schools in the UMgungundlovu District in KwaZulu-Natal. Drawing on the theoretical framework of Community of Practice (CoP) and adopting a qualitative approach, the study employed a case study design and utilised both semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions to generate data. The generated data were thematically analysed using Braun and Clarke's six septs of thematic analysis. The findings indicate that history teachers perceived PLCs as academic groups that fostered the development of historical content knowledge, new teaching approaches, and relevant assessment techniques through collaboration, engagement and the sharing of professional insights. It was also revealed that history teachers employed various strategies within PLCs, such as lesson study, workshops, seminars, and the integration of information and communication technology (ICT), to enhance the implementation of the history curriculum. The study recommends that school principals, with guidance from the Department of Education, take the lead in establishing Subject-Specific Professional Learning Communities (SSPLCs) to fully leverage the potential benefits of PLCs across all subjects in the school curriculum. Furthermore, it is suggested that some history teachers may require additional training in digital skills to effectively participate in virtual PLC activities. By contributing to the existing body of knowledge, this study advances the understanding of the best practices for using PLCs to improve school effectiveness and efficiency.