THE EDUCATIONAL ROLE AND VALUE OF JUNIOR TRAFFIC
TRAINING CENTRES WITHIN THE OUTCOMES-BASED
EDUCATION CURRICULUM
Sipho Johannes Molefe
B.A., H.E.D., B.Ed.(Hons)
Dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree
Magister Educationis in Learning and Teaching at the
North- West University
Supervisor
Professor Dr. N.J. Vreken
POTCHEFSTROOM
2004
ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to outline the importance of Junior Traffic Training Centres in both
primary and secondary schools. This would aid the effective integration of Traffic Safety
Education in the school curriculum within outcomes-based education. The primary objective of
this research was to determine the ways in which Junior Traffic Training Centres at schools are
instrumental in the development of knowledge, skills and attitudes of learners towards safe
participation in traffic environment. This research was conducted by means of a literature study
and an empirical investigation through a questionnaire and observations.
Investigation focused on learners from three schools, namely Maheelo Primary School (a farm
school at Hartbeesfontein), Gaenthone Secondary School (a semi-rural school in Tigane
Township near Hartbeesfontein) and Phaladi Combined School situated in Ikageng Township.
It was found that more emphasis should be placed on pedestrian education. Learners should be
taught traffic safety from pre-school, with the help of Junior Traffic Training Centres.
Ten recommendations are made in Section 7.5. These include more training in Traffic Safety
Education and that focus must be placed on disadvantaged areas; that government should avail
trained teachers in Traffic Safety Education; and that schools must have access to Junior Traffic
Training Centres.
This study is of significance to the North West Province and the South African society because
each day we lose learners through road accidents. This does not only cost the government
money but is also painful to all of us. This study maintains that teaching our learners road safety
education could contribute towards overcoming this situation.
Key concepts: Traffic, Safety, Education, Junior Traffic Training Centres and
Outcomes-Based Education.