A pre-R year: is it worth it, and what would it cost? An applied policy analysis/critique focused on the practical, financial and policy implications of increasing support to the pre-R year in South Africa
Type
Thesis
Authors
Category
ECCE, Preschool
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Publication Year
2009
Publisher
University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
URL
[ private ]
Pages
118 p.
Subject
Early childhood development, ECD programmes, Preschool education, Government legislation, Government policy, Disadvantaged children, Poverty, Inequality, Grade R, Costs, South Africa
Tags
Abstract
Science is unequivocal in its support for the importance of early childhood development. Calls for increased investment in young children cite neuroscience, developmental psychology and health. It is hazardous, however, to make a direct leap from neuroscience to policy recommendations. Simply because early childhood provides opportunities for more economically efficient interventions which have dramatic impact on inequality, this does not mean that the ECD policies actually implemented by communities, provinces, or national government are worthy investments. Firstly, it is difficult to design programmes that improve children's cognitive or behavioural development. Secondly, the costs of even effective programmes might outweigh the benefits they generate for children, their families, and taxpayers. And finally, programmes in early childhood require upfront and politically brave investments that may take decades to pay off.
Description
Thesis (MCom)--University of Cape Town, 2009
Number of Copies
1
