REQUIREMENTS AND CONDITIONS FOR HIGHER EDUCATION

CURRICULUM COMPATABILITY

Maria Bounds

Leonora Klein

University of Johannesburg

INTRODUCTION

The core objective of this research was to explore the possibility of new a curriculum for small business development, as an alternative to the one used by the University of Johannesburg (Vista University). Furthermore it proceeded to test the viability of such a curriculum through an empirical survey within the small business environment. Understanding learning and curriculum theories and principles is essential for the design and restructuring of effective curriculum programmes.

Higher Education is seen as a symbol of social and economic responsibility, established by acts of parliament to be guarantors of its own worth and credibility. There is general agreement on the need for accountability and value for money in the higher education sector and for establishing policies and processes to ensure the maintenance and enhancement of quality.

Many factors are responsible for sustained rapid economic development, one of these being the presence of a labour force with appropriate skills, discipline and commitment.

Education can play an important role in producing such a labour force. If Business Management programmes at higher education level are in line with the requirements of the economy, and all education sectors perform well, the resulting labour force will have most of the skills needed for economic development (Greenwood & Guant, 2000:81).

If the academic base of students is inadequate or inappropriate, it is difficult or virtually impossible for commerce and industry to transform these prospective students into highly motivated and highly productive units through in-service training. Systematic training as part of operational commitments, have a key role to play in the quest for efficiency and profit. South Africa needs more competent people, people who can be more productive, improve their standard of living and advance in general (Malinga, 2003:2).