Local students have their say about learning online
The nationwide lockdown has catapulted students into the online learning environment. We wanted to find out how they’re experience this new journey.
POLOKWANE – The lockdown has brought with it a new way of doing things, and this applies to the tertiary education sector as well. Even though some of the earlier restrictions of lockdown level five have been relaxed, schools and universities remain closed and teaching now happens online.
We spoke to students and lecturers from the Rosebank College in Polokwane about their digital learning experience.
Phathutshedzo David Lavhelani, a lecturer, says the institution has implemented three strategies to teach during the nationwide lockdown. Blackboard learning (an online tool), face-to-face tutoring, and online classes.
“Blackboard is mainly used as an assessment tool where students can download assignments, and the lecturers can track the rate the students are working at and their attendance. The face-to-face tutoring is for special cases and all students attend these online classes.” David says the low network connectivity and a lack of data are some challenges that his students are experiencing, but he still believes it is a great method of teaching. “The fourth industrial revolution is here. This online learning system should be implemented even after lockdown as I have noticed a spike in the attendance of my classes as compared to physical contact classes.”
Even though he is pro online teaching, David still prefers being in class with his students as he believes this contact makes a huge difference for his students.
Joa Makhadi, a second-year Bachelor in IT student: “I find it much better because I can learn at my own pace. Even if I miss one of my classes I can always go back and catch up on my work. This helps because if I didn’t understand, I can replay the lesson for better understanding.”
Nkateko Mawila, second-year IT student: “The only disadvantage to online learning is when my younger sister is with me at home and I cannot get some quiet time to study. I like the flexibility of our lessons and the way our lecturers make sure we understand what we are learning before they move on. It is also easier to ask questions through the online learning system.”
Ndivhuwo Chirenga, third-year Bachelor in Administration student: “I prefer being in class but I understand that it’s not possible now, and this needs to be done for our safety. Being able to ask my friends questions in class is a luxury I miss. The network connectivity at home is also poor, and sometimes I struggle to attend the class because of it.”
