The perceived roles and functions of school science subject advisors

The science subject advisor can play an important role in upgrading the quality of science teaching in South African schools. This study deals with the perceived roles and functions of science subject advisors. Interviews with senior executives of the North West Province's directorate responsible for subject advisory services and questionnaires completed by science subject advisors revealed problems they experienced and their views on how to improve the service. Another questionnaire administered to science teachers revealed their problems, perceptions and expectations of the science subject advisors. A literature study highlighted practices in the UK and the US that are of relevance to South Africa. Recommendations are made as to how to optimise the services rendered by science subject advisors. (South African Journal of Education: 2001 21(4): 305-310)