A model for studying gaps in education: a Swaziland case study in the learning of science

Frequently voiced complaints about gaps between different stages of education systems are seldom thoroughly explored and explained. This paper develops a model to provide a holistic analysis of educational gaps. It does so by first differentiating two aspects of a gap — a momentary and longitudinal aspect and then examining data about the system at both the macro and micro level. A Swazi case study on a perceived gap between the junior and senior secondary stage is used to illustrate the use of the model. The model proved useful in identifying aspects of the gap needing bridging, e.g. progression in teaching and assessing for higher levels, and dispelling myths about disparities that did not exist, e.g. lack of articulation in the content of the syllabus between the two stages.