Exploring the culture of learning and teaching between two universities
Date
2014-02-26
Authors
Breytenbach, Belinda
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Abstract
This paper reports the findings of a mixed methods research study which sought to explore the impact
of teaching and learning cultures on the performance of fourth year Accountancy students. The
collection of data was done through questionnaires as well as interviews with lecturers. Learning culture
was explored by measuring and comparing the cultural dimensions of fourth year Accountancy students
at two South African universities in order to understand the differences and similarities between the
two institutions’ student bodies. There were statistically significant differences between the students of
the two universities only along the cultural dimensions of long-term orientation and indulgence versus
restraint. It was found that uncertainty avoidance, monumentalism and the age of students significantly
impact their performance in Accountancy. Cultural dimensions of students which could hinder their
performance in Accountancy are identified and some recommendations are made with regards to
addressing areas of weakness in learning culture.