IOL
EDUTECH EDITION | JUNE 2021
TECHNOLOGY
SA’S FREE MONTHLY TECH AND INNOVATIONS MAG
Digital University dream must become a reality
Why investing in the digital classroom is essential
CONTENTS
CONTACT US PUBLISHER Vasantha Angamuthu vasantha@africannewsagency.com
The latest APPS to keep you in the know
GIZMOS Gear to help you learn from anywhere
Online schools and learning institutions are taking off
National digital university must become reality
EDITOR Wesley Diphoko wesley.diphoko@inl.co.za DESIGN Dominique Owen dominique.owen@inl.co.za PRODUCTION Renata Ford renata.ford@inl.co.za BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Keshni Odayan keshni.odayan@inl.co.za SALES Charl Reineke charl.reineke@inl.co.za ENQUIRIES iol.magazines@inl.co.za
‘ In recent years new universities have been built. All of them are brick and mortar structures. South Africa does not have a national digital university and we give you all the reasons why this is necessary during this era.
WESLEY DIPHOKO IOL TECH EDITOR
Editor’s letter THERE was a time when accessing education was just about bricks and mortar. The pandemic has changed all of that, even for some who preferred only accessing education from buildings. It is for this reason that our lead article focuses on the dream for a digital university in South Africa. In recent years new universities have been built, however all of them are brick and mortar structures. South Africa does not have even one national digital university and we give you all the reasons why this is necessary during this era. In this digimag we also list several online schools where young people can access education. In addition, we shine a light on the tools that enable you to access education from the comfort of your home. In June, South Africans will be paying special attention to young people. As part of this digimag youth focus, the IOL Tech team will host
a discussion about education and technology. We are interested in understanding the challenges associated with accessing education during a period when access requires digital devices, connectivity, and little interaction with other learners. At IOL Tech we are interested to know how young people from rural areas and townships have navigated the need to use technology to learn. We are hoping that reporting on these matters and hosting discussions on these issues will lead to some form of a proposal that can be considered to assist young people during this time of need. Throughout June we will be looking for partners that we can work with in addressing some of the challenges that have come to our attention. We would also like to initiate a series of articles that will focus on how teachers and educators can use technology to better deliver education to learners and students.
ko o h p i D y e l s e W
SIZWE AFRICA IT GROUP OFFERS
SCALABLE CLOUD-BASED SOLUTIONS FOR COMPANIES OF ALL SIZES
With company needs evolving at an accelerated pace and the advent of the Covid-19 global pandemic necessitating companies of all sizes to conduct a lot more business processes remotely, there has never been a more relevant time than the present to adopt cloud-based solutions.
cloud, which can be costly and complex.
Historically, cloud solutions were usually recommended for large enterprise use and considered to be complex and cumbersome, and not suited for small and medium-sized enterprises both from cost and practicality perspective.
“Acquiring Sizwe’s cloud services is quite a simple process. All one needs to do is visit our cloud services website at https://sizwe.cloud and they will be able to view our full range of shared hosting services. In a few clicks, they can select the services they require and make payment with a credit or debit card and after that have access to the services via a management console,” he explains.
The current circumstances have however created a demand for cloud solutions targeted at the Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). Solutions that take processes such as hosting, storage, mail and data management out of their hands.
“ Clients are given multi-factor authentication (MFA) process to access and maintain the integrity of
their data. ”
012 657 5300
With this as a backdrop, Sizwe Africa IT Group invested in a cloud platform – a market place for SMMEs to purchase hosted services and get access to solutions that were once exclusive to larger enterprises. Gareth Smith, Enterprise Architect at Sizwe Africa IT Group says “This solution is targeted specifically at the SMME market. For us, it is an untapped space and our intent is to offer pre-built solutions that are suited for smaller companies and are also scalable, so that they can increase the number of services and capacity as their companies grow.” According to research firm Gartner’s Top Strategic Technology Trends for 2021 report – Distributed Cloud, is the future of Cloud. In its findings, the research house says Distributed Cloud is where cloud services are distributed to different physical locations, but the operation, governance and evolution remain the responsibility of the public cloud provider. This is enabling organisations to have these services physically closer and helps with low-latency scenarios, reduces data costs and helps accommodate laws that dictate data must remain in a specific geographical area. However, it also means that organisations still benefit from public cloud and aren’t managing their own private
Sizwe’s new cloud platform, which is hosted on tier-two servers focuses on providing quality services but also on the simplicity in purchasing and managing the hosted services.
Amongst the services available on the platform are Domains and secure certificates, dedicated mailboxes (25Gb to 100GB), security solutions, Software defined data centers in the cloud and hosted backup solutions. The space is growing and will offer additional services as the platform grows, If a client selects a number of hosted services, they will have one profile where they can view and manage all their services and can also be billed for all of them on a single invoice. To ensure that our clients get the best in class services, Sizwe has partnered with industry leading and top tier software and hardware vendors including Cisco, HPE, Fujitsu, Dell, Mellanox, Veeam, Morpho, Acronis and VMware. For further piece of mind, Sizwe does not access any of its client data that resides on the servers. Clients are given multi-factor authentication (MFA) process to access and maintain the integrity of their data. Sizwe does not restrict the amount of traffic that its clients generate on the platform as long as it does not infringe the fair usage policy, and also does not provide services to online gaming companies, gambling or adult entertainment websites. Meanwhile, Technology industry body CompTIA has predicted that 2021 will start to see companies of all sizes adopting a cloud-first mentality when it comes to building or upgrading IT infrastructure.
SIZWE AFRICA IT GROUP’S SMME-TARGETED CLOUD OFFERING Companies of all sizes are looking for hosted solutions to assist them improve their efficiencies, save money and have a technology partner they can call on, especially during this time that demands some level of technology upgrades. For SMMEs, this has always proven to be a costly exercise as most cloud-based solutions were designed with larger enterprises in mind. Sizwe Africa IT Group has launched a wide range of hosted services that are specifically targeted at small and medium-sized companies which are affordable, scalable and easy to procure and manage.
OUR SERVICES ARE ONLY SIX CLICKS AWAY:
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LEARNING AGAIN Why investing in the digital classroom is essential CHRIS BUCHANAN
TECHNOLOGY is already re-imaging the education sector on a global scale, from preschool through to higher education. In recent years, students at all levels have been taking advantage of technology on demand to meet their own learning needs and chart their path to workforce readiness. We have seen this evidenced first-hand, having partnered with Stanford University’s Rural Education Access Program (REAP) to bring computerassisted learning (CAL) to students in rural schools across China, with children gaining an extra semester’s worth of learning when using CAL software. In schools, EdTech solutions in the form of virtual collaboration and data synchronisation tools have created opportunities to transform the learning experience and prepare students for a digital-first
world. This is allowing teachers and students to connect via live-streamed sessions, avail of appfuelled experiences, and even participate in virtual field trips. People are the centre of every successful education experience and to truly grasp all the benefits that techbased education models can offer, we need to ensure that access to tech and the learning culture evolves, too. For example, wheeling out computers in schools is not enough on its own – teaching methods must be redesigned around datadriven technologies. A long-term strategic approach should be embedded in all
People are the centre of every successful education experience
aspects of enhanced digitalisation to truly support students. So, what does digital transformation in the education sector actually look like? Firstly, the provision of devices with broad mobile carrier support which enable all students to access the digital classroom and learning materials, irrespective of broadband internet access is imperative. A globally connected virtual classroom can bring learning to every student regardless of
language, comprehension style or geography. Hybrid-cloud infrastructure can enable in-school and off-site access to resources, as well as classes online. It means the provision of robust devices and video collaboration tools, so all students have the basic necessities for modern and accessible education. But this is only the foundation of digitally driven learning resources, which must be supplemented with determined efforts to enhance digital literacy
Rethinking education can help us build a more resilient world
skills for children and parents to ensure those without experience in this sphere are not disadvantaged. Front seats in the future classroom Once 5G is widely adopted, new technologies will come online, creating exciting education opportunities not previously imagined – exponentially enhancing the scope of possibility for educators and students. The Khulisa Academy is a High-Performance Computing (HPC) training
academy launched by Dell Technologies’ Dell Development Fund, that is designed to enable previously disadvantaged students to further enhance their IT capabilities. By harnessing new innovative technologies, leaders in education can transform how students learn and teachers are supported. The digital foundations must first be in place before seizing the next generation of opportunities and preparing robustly for the future of work. But it must be grasped with care as
the successful application of a digital strategy for education requires nuance, vision and collaboration as educators prepare for what is coming next in terms of hybrid/blended learning models. Getting the digital classroom right McKinsey analysis on the impact of technology on educational outcomes calls for a thoughtful approach, rather than box-ticking exercise. It highlights the need for the correct use of technology in classrooms, emphasising the benefits
of augmenting teacher’s instructions and integrating with full lesson plans, rather than as an add-on. The sweet spot for EdTech occurs when the technology is fit for purpose and students and teachers are well versed in using the tech to get the most out of it. Much of this evolution is inevitable, but when it comes to the digital classroom, getting it right is crucial, requiring an ecosystem of stakeholders – from educational institutions, to content providers, third-party tech partners, and NGOs. We are standing at a unique crossroads, with a clear vision and the tools to achieve it. Bridging the digital divide has never been so crucial as we look to close gaps in access to education and support an innovative, community focused, and future-proof economic recovery that delivers on ambitious and long-term skills needs. Rethinking education can help us build a more resilient world – and we all know that starts with putting students first. The opportunity for technology to solve society’s biggest challenges is more pronounced than ever. Chris Buchanan, Client Solutions director, Dell Technologies South Africa
Apps to keep you in the know Mobile apps and smartphones have come a long way in shaping the educational system
MASABATA MKWANANZI masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za
DESPITE the whole world going through a pandemic, 2020 and 2021 saw major innovations in the tech world, such as the shift to online schooling. Mobile apps and smartphones have come a long way in changing and shaping the educational system. In this edition of IOL Tech, we will have a look at some of the educational apps that will help you better understand and ace those subjects. Extramarks SA (Free Trial and Paid Version) This South African app offers a complete curriculum coverage for maths, science, life sciences, and English for grade 6 to 12 learners. The app allows pupils to learn anywhere at any time.
It also provides learning modules for the National Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) and the International curriculum. Available on Android and iOS. Xander App (Paid) This fun educational app is for young learners, helping them with numbers, basic shapes and primary and secondary colours using age-appropriate games. What makes this app unique is that it allows children to master new skills in their own languages, from English, SeSotho, IsiZulu, Afrikaans, Tswana, and many other languages. Available on Android and iOS. WhatsApp (Free) Even though the app is known for chatting with friends and family, over the past year WhatsApp
has been used as a bridge between teachers and learners. Teachers were able to create WhatsApp subject groups to help learners get previous question papers, and send videos of how they solved a maths equation or science experiment. Available on Android and iOS. Dial-a-Tutor (Free) Even though it is not an app, this contact solution uses a toll-free number to assist Grade 8 to 12 learners to interact with subject specialists. Dial-a-Tutor was launched in 2020 with the aim of bringing classrooms closer to pupils. It is currently available to North West learners. Those who are interested in using this toll-free service can call Dial-a-Tutor on 0800 383 383, Monday to Friday, 7am to 8pm.
GIZMOS – gear to help you learn from anywhere The evolving technology which lends itself to our day-to-day lives continues to change the face of learning as we know it FLOYD MATLALA floyd.matlala@inl.co.za
ATTENDING online classes or virtual lectures has become the new normal. With the acceleration of digital use due to lockdowns all over the world, virtual learning has taken a giant leap. Let’s take a look at gadgets you can use when exploring the online learning space. Laptop Laptops are one of the most important tech tools for online teaching as they act as a substitute for your class presence. They provide support in conducting an effective online class and can be tailored for specific needs. Laptops are mobile and more energy efficient than desktop PCs. Tablet In the long list of tech tools for online teaching, tablets have worked their way up the hierarchy. Easy to carry and use, tablets come in all shapes and sizes. All you have to do is figure out the one which fits your needs best.
Digital pen Digital pens have entered the arena. The digital pen is considered one of the key tech tools for online learning. It lets you take notes on your notebook or specially designed papers and save the digital version online. Some optional features include audio recording for saving lectures, mouse functionality, and pressure sensitivity for those who want to draw with their digital pens. Wi-fi for uninterrupted connection Having a steady internet connection is crucial in online learning as some of these gadgets require an internet connection to function. Webcam Webcams are one of the
most sought-after tech tools for online teaching. Most laptops come with built-in webcams which can be used for live teaching. If you are looking for higher-quality imaging, you can go for peripheral webcam options. Headset In an online learning session communication is a key factor and a headset is a crucial tool. Choosing the right one could be the deciding factor in the success of your online class. Ring Lights Ring lights can work just like the On Air lights in studios, by serving as a reminder that school is in session. They can also provide extra lighting for online videos and will be a bonus tool for when students are presenting or showcasing intricate projects.
Online schools and learning institutions taking off in SA YASMINE JACOBS yasmine.jacobs@inl.co.za
THE digital landscape has changed the world and almost every sector – and education is not an exception. Twenty years ago, edutech and online schools were basically unheard of and now online has been integrated into the school curriculum. With the onset of Covid19 and the lockdown, many turned to online resources for schooling. There are a number of online schools and learning institutions. It is worth noting that when choosing a provider, you need to ensure the company is registered with the South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (Sacai). Sacai education providers adhere to the Department of Basic Education’s CAPS curriculum.
Valenture Institute Launched in 2019, it is a global private online high school offering a British curriculum recognised by the world’s leading universities, including Yale, Harvard, and Oxford. Learners experience a highly engaging, inclusive, and rich learning environment that is supported by teachers, mentors, and boutique techenabled campuses. In South Africa, learners can choose between studying online only, or attending one of the campuses in Dunkeld (Johannesburg) and Newlands (Cape Town). MyTopDog MyTopDog provides personalised learning experiences for pupils in grades 4 to 12 through its Vodacom e-school. The learning content has been designed to supplement and support all major subjects in the public and private school curricula,
supporting the CAPS, NSC & IEB systems. Curro Online This is the Curro group’s first dedicated online school. All classes are presented by teachers while children learn from home. The live lessons are presented on MS Teams and are scheduled according to a
structured timetable. All lessons are recorded and pupils can access digital material and recorded lessons online at any time. Virtual schools Launched in 2013, Virtual Schools provides home-schooling solutions in South Africa for grades
RR to 12. What makes it a bit different is that the curriculum makes use of online content as well as traditional textbooks. Fees start from R3 590 a year for Grade R and R25 990 a year for Grade 12 pupils. Mancosa If you have completed
your schooling and want to get into the business field, Management College of Southern Africa (Mancosa) is one of the places to start. Mancosa has been accredited as an online university in South Africa and offers an online business administration programme.
South Africa’s National Digital University dream must become a reality WESLEY DIPHOKO wesley.diphoko@inl.co.za
IN 2012, a woman was killed next to the gates of the University of Johannesburg. She was the mother of a prospective student. Nine years later a father has lost his life again next to a university, this time near Wits. The reason why these two people died is partly related to the difficulty of accessing higher education in South Africa. One was queuing, trying to get her son registered, the other was a bystander shot when police were shooting at students fighting for access to higher education. While the details of these tragic incidents are more nuanced than that, they force us to think deeper about what it will take to address the access to
The reason why these two individuals died is partly related to the difficulty of accessing higher education in South Africa education challenges. One would think that a loss of life in 2012 would have moved society to come up with a solution to this challenge, but we are still here with a significant number of young people who cannot access higher education because of space constraints
and limited resources. We live in an era where technology makes it possible for people to access almost everything that has to do with learning and education. A year ago, as people were contemplating the prospect of weeks or months of lockdown, two young academics thought up a novel community service project: helping people to use their free time to learn a valuable new skill. They set out to turn Stanford’s introductory coding class, CS106A, into a massive virtual community: Code in Place. Two months later, the results were in: 10 000 students from
120 countries embraced the joy of coding through the course. Students who had never before tried to code were implementing projects in Python, including tools to model dynamics of the Covid-19 pandemic, analyse DNA, conduct sentiment analysis from Twitter, and create a choose-your-own-adventure film. A handful of students kickstarted new careers in computer science. A student from Italy called it “the most enjoyable, mentally stimulating and rewarding experience I have ever encountered”. How did they achieve such a massive impact in education?
Their secret ingredient was the community of 908 section leaders who volunteered their time to give students live weekly, interactive support in small, virtual groups for 40 minutes. Section leaders joined from more than 350 cities on six continents, spoke more than 30 languages, and came from every walk of life. Advertising This model is a fine example of using technology to enable access to education which, if applied with greater institutional support, can address the access issue. Of course, not all courses
can be taught without physical interaction with instructors. But courses that can be taught online, such as computer science, should receive the necessary support to be taught online. Google understands the value and impact of this model. Recently, the US tech giant made a huge announcement that could change the future of work and higher education: It launched a selection of professional courses that teach candidates how to perform in-demand jobs. These courses, which the company is calling Google Career Certificates, teach foundational skills that can help job seekers find employment. However, instead of taking years to finish, like a traditional university degree, these courses are designed to be completed in about six months. No one will be turned away due to overcapacity as they are delivered online. They are also not as expensive as traditional university courses. The South African Higher Education ministry has tried all traditional means of enabling access through funding and building new universities, yet the access challenge persists. What has not yet been tried is the National Digital University. Many who dream about a National Digital University are told there’s University of South Africa (Unisa). The reality however is that Unisa is a traditional university built for the old world. To address some of South Africa’s access to education challenges there’s a need for a national education platform that feels like Zoom, Netflix, and Coursera combined with a Virgin Active type model for physical interaction where there’s a need.
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