Challenges Encountered in the Enhancement and Optimal Teaching and Learning of the Creative Arts Subject in South Africa

Abstract

In recent years, there have been debates regarding the scope of Creative Arts subject in the existing curriculum known as the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement offered in the South African public schools. Crucial points in question include that the curriculum does not fully equip learners with the requisite skills for their respective areas of interest. This article interrogates these, and many other challenges encountered in teaching and learning this subject. The study adopted a qualitative research method to collect data, using methods such as semi-structured interviews with the principals, teachers, as well as selected learners from the selected public schools. A substantial review of previous and recent scholarly writings was used to substantiate the findings. The over-arching finding is that this Creative Arts subject requires some intervention strategies and revision by the government and all relevant stakeholders. This study concludes by affirming that the Creative Arts subject plays a vital role in schools, but some issues have contributed to the ineffectiveness of the subject. There is a clear indication that one of the main contributions to the ineffectiveness of the Creative Arts subject in schools is to find specialist educators in each art form.