The members of the Department of Education Management and Policy Studies (EMPS) work in very diverse and varied fields of research within the broader fields of education leadership, law and policy.

Within these broader fields, the following research foci are evident:

Education Leadership and Management

Within this broad field, various members of the Department conduct research in the theory and practice of school leadership, in the field of school improvement, the establishment and maintenance of school and organisational climate and culture, emotional intelligence, the management of school finances, the management of human resources in education, the management of diversity in education, teaching and managing multiple grades, the theory and management of change at all levels of education (primary, secondary and tertiary), educational reform (both nationally and internationally), the leadership and management of teaching and learning at school level and the preparation and development of school leaders.

Education Law

Within the field of Education Law, members of the Department conduct research on school discipline, the implementation of education legislation, school safety, human rights in education as they pertain to both learners and staff, issues surrounding school governance and the functions of School Governing Bodies and the issue of social justice in education.

Education Policy

The Department has a very strong interest in and focus on research in education policy matters, including higher education policy and the internationalisation of higher education, the issue of globalisation and its effects on education policy and practice, the development and implementation of education policy both nationally and internationally and quality assurance at all levels of the education system.

Other fields of research interest

Besides the foci mentioned above, members of the Department also conducts research into doctoral education, the history and sociology of education, values education and the effects of HIV and Aids in education.

The Department is also proud to boast expertise in qualitative research methodology.