The Rhetoric of Hands-On Practical Skills

Abstract

Learning hands-on skills in Civil Technology ensures that learners are capacitated with skills that address socio-economic ills. However, most learners who have completed their studies in Civil Technology are still experiencing unemployment. The purpose of this chapter is to explore innovative teaching and learning techniques that Civil Technology teachers possess during hands-on practical lessons. This chapter used qualitative research approach using observation and interview data collection instruments. This chapter purposefully sampled nine teachers and 145 learners from Gauteng and Limpopo provinces of South Africa and used two frameworks, namely Roger's diffusion of innovativeness and 9E instructional model. The study found that teachers have various challenges in using innovative teaching and learning techniques such as digital technologies to enhance learners understanding of tools concepts. This chapter recommends training for teachers about how to execute hands-on lessons using 9E instructional model as a guide to innovative knowledge.