E-learning equips special school
“The goal of K-ED is to provide schools with education-centric technology developed by world leaders while ensuring adoption success and daily usage. It also falls in line with the worldwide trend to use technology as a tool to improve teaching and learning therefore super speeding South African efforts."
A GROUND-BREAKING eLearning project was launched at the Durban School for the Hearing Impaired on Thursday, 23 April.
Kolok and Intel SA, in partnership with InterSite, an asset investment subsidiary of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and a number of key contributors launched the Kolok Education Solution (K-ED) which, for the first time utilises the existing railroad fibre optics infrastructure to provide connectivity to schools nationwide.
Furthermore it will provide a 360 degree, user-friendly solution that will accelerate the adoption of education in technology in South Africa. The key technology partners are Intel; Vastratech (Smart Technologies), Sapient, Microsoft, Edit Microsystems, learnthings Africa and Intersite.
“The goal of K-ED is to provide schools with education-centric technology developed by world leaders while ensuring adoption success and daily usage. It also falls in line with the worldwide trend to use technology as a tool to improve teaching and learning therefore super speeding South African efforts,” said MD of Kolok, Allan Thompson.
“At Intel we strongly believe in a holistic education transformation model that includes all aspects from professional development, content, devices and connectivity, enabled by an ecosystem that brings it to market. Technology assists society to leapfrog many of the challenges that would have traditionally been a barrier to individuals fulfilling their potential,” said country general manager: Southern Africa, Intel Corporation, Videsha Proothveerajh.
The K-ED solution comprises sophisticated education technology such as Intel education devices (mini PCs and notebooks) and classroom management software; Sapient, Edit Microsystems and Windows software; learnthings Africa interactive learning material and Smart Technologies’ interactive flat panel and Smart notebook classroom software.
“This is a magnanimous contribution to e-learning at our school. With the support of sponsors, staff and pupils, the principles of e-learning will reach golden heights,” said principal, Mrs Naidoo.
Each implementation also includes intensive teacher development to ensure that both the school and pupils utilise the K-ED Solution to its full potential. All education content is also pre-loaded and Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS) aligned.
The project at the Durban School for the Hearing Impaired will set the foundation for a nationwide rollout within the foreseeable future.
