The New Ground Communications Learning Philosophy

The New Ground Communications Learning Philosophy is based on the idea that learners grow by experience, not just by attending classes.  Our method of teaching is therefore interactive, combining the lecturer’s input with the student’s own experience and research.  Our primary objective is to provide the student with the tools for self-growth and intellectual development, not simply to “fill up the beaker” with information.  For this reason the learning strategies adopted are strongly research oriented, encouraging students to find out information for themselves, analyse it and present it coherently in appropriate formats.

Members

New Ground Communications is directed by Kevin Goddard and Sheenadevi Goddard. The associates are Linda Kwatsha and Brian Walter. All have extensive experience as academics in the fields of literature, language, editing and business teaching.

Kevin Goddard has M.A. and PhD degrees in literature, and a degree in psychology.  He has 14 years experience as a lecturer and facilitator.  He has been head of a university English department, and has edited a number of books, and published a number of articles in the fields of literature, gender studies and psychology.

Sheenadevi Goddard has an M.A. in literature and is completing her PhD. In addition to this, she has a degree in psychology and education. She has extensive experience as a teacher and facilitator as well as an editor.  She has published numerous articles in the fields of women’s writing.  She is an experienced lecturer of business communications.

Linda Kwatsha holds M.A. and PhD degrees in Xhosa literature and culture, and a B.Com (Honours) degree in cultural tourism and marketing, as well as qualifications in education.  She has extensive experience as an educator and facilitator, and specializes in teacher upgrading and multicultural development.  She is a member of the Committee of Subject Advisors for African Studies in the Eastern Cape.  She has facilitated numerous workshops on cultural diversity as well as leadership training in schools.

Brian Walter holds M.A. and PhD degrees in English literature, and has been an academic and head of department for many years.  He has been a skills trainer and facilitator in the fields of project management, leadership development, educational development and creative writing, since leaving academia.  He is one of the Eastern Cape’s most established poets, with a number of awards to his credit.  He is also the founder of the Seaberg Press, which publishes the work of local writers.