Work

Home Literacy Practices in Early Education: A Qualitative Case Study of Grade 1 School Children and Teacher Insights

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: South Africa has a complex educational landscape. This study explored four children’s early home literacy practices and their uptake by Grade 1 teachers in rural Libode, Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. The paper addresses the critical need for understanding literacy development in multilingual, resource-constrained environments. Using a qualitative, ethnographic design underpinned by Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT), the study used observations and interviews in home and school settings. The findings revealed a rich diversity of home literacy practices, including oral traditions and emerging digital literacy, contrasting with the school’s emphasis on phonics-based instruction and English as the language of learning. Significant disparities between home and school practices challenge children’s educational transition. Evidence of translanguaging suggests a potential for multilingual approaches to instruction. The study contributes valuable insights for developing culturally responsive pedagogies, informing teacher training, and guiding resource allocation to enhance literacy outcomes in South Africa’s Foundation Phase. Keywords: Home literacy, School Literacy Practices, Cultural Historical Activity Theory, Foundation Phase and Ethnographic Design.

Source: E-Journal of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences

DOI: 10.38159/ehass.2025638

Authors: Xoliswa Patience Magxala, Joseph Baidoo

Institution: Walter Sisulu University

Language: English

Topic: Reading and Literacy Development

Subfield: Developmental and Educational Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $100