How does a Culture of Learning Impact on Student Behaviour?

Problem statement: Despite the need for a culture of learning in South African schools, research reveal that it is not generally encountered. Research also indicates the manifestation of student behavior problems constraining effective learning. Approach: This research study was directed at determining if a link existed between behavior problems and a lack of a culture of learning. The research approach adopted constituted a literature study and a qualitative based, narrative inquiry at a school within a traditionally disadvantaged community. The literature study was undertaken to gain an understanding of the concept “culture of learning” and its impact as a behavioral determinant. Caring schools as a means to address the problem formed part of the study. Results: Important research findings relate to the correlation between characteristics that give rise to behavioral problems and those associated with a lack of a culture of learning, the role played by “caring schools” in nurturing a culture of learning and the importance of addressing students’ emotional needs for dealing with behavioral problems. Conclusion: The significance of the research is the guidelines proposed for dealing with behavior problems by establishing a culture of learning. Recommended is in-service training of all key stakeholders in the dynamics of establishing a culture of learning and the realization of learner’s unmeet emotional needs.