COVID-19 catapults e-learning into the future of education - expert
An educational technology expert says he can't see a complete return to the traditional way of teaching as the need for e-learning arises.
"What we are seeing now is that there is more a reliability available. There is a lot more content available. There are a lot more processes to support students and faculty to be together online, and I think it's a very important time to observe," says Robert Speed.
Schools and universities have had to move onto the online learning platform because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown.
Many teachers across the country have been uploading classwork and homework for their pupils on platforms such as Google Classroom - and engaging with learners via video calls like Zoom. Some have been putting lessons up on YouTube.
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But, Speed says e-learning comes with its challenges.
"Everything needs to work together. The one thing we are advising faculty and students to work closely together and in partnership to ensure that the academic day doesn't stop. The telcos are recognising that these challenges exist and trying to address them collectively with institutions and universities."
On Tuesday, Higher Education Minister, Blade Nzimande told the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education that they were looking at ways to save the academic year at tertiary institutions - but admitted that access to e-learning for many students remained a challenge.
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