Contributions of Technology to Education in South Africa

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Contributions of Technology to Education in South Africa

South Africa is one of the countries in Africa that boasts over a decade of accumulated experience from various projects and programs. Learning institutions are continually testing ICT models on teacher training and optimal usage that encourages significant learning. Technology is one of the strategies South Africa is deploying to help curb the high rate of unemployment.

The adoption of digital technologies in South Africa could create at least 1.2 million jobs by 2030. Graduates with excellent life skills and ideal technological experience will be required to fill these positions. Therefore, the South African government is ensuring the early introduction of technology in schools to help bridge the gap between the current situation and where the future graduates will need to be. The following are the effects of introducing technology for future graduates:

1.     Keeping Track of Individual Progress

The availability of student databases allows students to have records to refer to when checking their performance progress. It makes it easier for them to set achievable goals and incorporate learning strategies that address their needs and help them improve.

2.     Improved Teacher Productivity and Efficiency

Teachers can also use the database to observe how the learners are performing design relevant follow-up activities. Traditional teaching methods are still deployed in some areas, and the poor results in students are a clear indication that using technology is the best practical alternative at the moment.

3.     Improve Student Outcome

Using technology in the classroom makes it more practical and lively hence keeping the students interested and focused. It also eases some learning processes that are too difficult for some learners to help close the achievement gaps seen in a traditional classroom. The use of tutorials also makes classes more realistic hence improving the learner’s understanding.

4.     Adopting Skills Required to Get a Job

The jobs that will be available in the future will be way different than what is there today. South Africa is already adopting machine automation which speeds up processes and makes work easier. By teaching technological skills to learners, you are giving them the ability to acquire a decent job in the future.

5.     Helps Students Find Their Voice

Some students may find it challenging to thrive in a traditional classroom environment due to their reluctance to participate in group activities. Using technology to teach means using creative apps that allow students to generate photo journals, videos, and audio recordings.

6.     Education Technology is Engaging

If students are asked to work with books or worksheets all through, the teacher will have a severe class management problem. However, when learners are in groups using green screen technology, students are more excited and engaged.

7.     Deepening School-to-Home Connection

It is pretty challenging for teachers in South Africa to regularly update parents and families on how students perform and provide them with an actual picture of what happens in class. However, introducing technology tools like digital portfolios and digital classrooms can help families understand what their students are doing, strengthening the school-to-home connection.

8.     Help Discover Underlying Interests and Talents in Students

When you walk into a classroom, you can’t possibly tell what each student is capable of. The jobs in the future will require students to have interest and technological skills. By availing of different tools in the classroom, you may be creating future actors, app creators, and scientists.

Conclusion

Education is one of the most crucial sectors since it has a significant impact on the future. The South African government has continually upgraded classrooms through renovations and the introduction of technological equipment. It has made learning more engaging, entertaining, and easier for learners.