Practical Pedagogy as an Infinite Solution for All Generations’ Developmental Challenges

Abstract

Theory of education since pre-literate times to contemporary philosophies of education has always emphasized the relevance of practical teaching for sustainable citizenship, communal development and survival. Practical pedagogy is seen by Realists, Pragmatists, Naturalists and Progressivists not only as an essential aspect of schooling but life itself. Practical education is for all times, for, it connects people with reality, above all it is an interdisciplinary learning experience. It is widely accepted that practical pedagogy not only enables skills acquisitions but also leads to greater conceptual understanding. However, whilst there has been much research into relevance of, and factors that affect, practical teaching and learning, there has been limited research into whether teachers really implement practical pedagogy approaches. This study through qualitative theoretical data gathering and analysis provide the present position on practical pedagogy in the current Zimbabwe education system. Findings reveal a wide gap between practice and theory. This gap is attributed to resource constraints and lack of practical teaching knowledge. Other factors include negative teacher attitudes with prioritisation of theory and a limited interest. Zimbabwe curriculum seem not to place central emphasis on pragmatic world view. These factors lead to sustainable development challenges. Given the above findings, it can be recommended that, current Zimbabwe education system should undertake a broadly based audit of existing practice. Zimbabwe education system should be reviewed to explore reduction of theory inclination to allow learners more time on pragmatic knowledge exploration. The study concluded that there is a need to re-examine the aims of Zimbabwe education in order to reaffirm the relevance of practical intelligence for economic and social development. Such a re-examination could draw upon the traditions and practices that underpin many innovative initiatives, past, present and future.