In a class there is a learner with low interpersonal skills. The learner is withdrawn and doesn’t seem to be integrating with other learners in class activities. The key point as a teacher is how to encourage the learner to be more self-confident in and out of a classroom environment. The issue for the learner may be behavioural, a home issue or a negative attitude, causing the inability for the learner to work with peers in the classroom. The method of counselling would be applied through African philosophy. The focus placed on the learner by giving him/her a deeper understanding of themselves and to build a sense of community in the classroom. Hopefully this may establish an identity and give the learner the ability to approach life in a holistic manner. The teaching style applied may be contributing to the non-involvement of the learner. An indication would be made to the learner to understand that they cannot exist alone. Thus building a better out-look for the learner through the teachings of African philosophy embodied in the word
Ubuntu, which means humanity.
African philosophy is focused on a joint well-being of that community. The individual can be
Umuntu because of that community. “No man is an island”. An individual is who they are because of past generations and people around them in that community. African philosophy is about being able to build communities and give people a sense of identity and a sense of belonging. In many ways it encourages individuals within that structure to be humble and also allows one to have a profounder acceptance of ourselves. African Philosophy enables one to enquire about the importance of tradition and the values they equip an individual with. The concept Ubuntu is a focal point in African philosophy, which cannot just be reduced to tradition practices. African philosophy is a technique to adjust one’s life, which is focused on a western way of existence. It enables that
Bibliography: Higgs, P & Smith, J. 2013 reprint. Rethinking our world. Cape Town: Juta. W. Lawrence Neuman. 1997,1994,1991. Social research methods. 160 Gould street, Needham Heights, Ma 02194. Allyn & Bacon.