College of Education

Enhancing the success of SA's future teachers

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Academics from the Department of Curriculum and Instructional Studies (DCIS) at Unisa’s College of Education (CEDU) recently presented a dynamic face-to-face student support programme in the Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. Unisa students learn from a distance and connect to the university mostly via the internet (eg using a laptop, tablet, smartphone).

Unisa, a celebrated 150-year-old comprehensive open, distance and e-Learning (CODeL) institution, enables students to access study material and write examinations online via myUnisa, a learning management system (LMS), and is known for delivering well-made, interactive study material. Pillar 4, Strengthening Student Support and Co-Curricular Activities, is one of Unisa’s catalytic niche areas.

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Attendees and presenters at the KwaZulu-Natal session

This platform for personalised interaction and guidance was aimed towards increasing student success for Bachelor of Education (BEd) as well as the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), with the programme featuring parallel sessions focusing on key themes crucial to CODeL student development.

These themes included student support information, academic guidance, teaching strategies, assessment techniques, academic integrity and teaching practice.

The sessions on student support information aimed to equip students with essential resources and tools to navigate their academic journey effectively. Detailed information on take-home examination modules for final year students (CUS3701, AED3701, BPT1501, BTE2601) and academic guidance on continuous assessment modules were presented.

An in-depth discussion on the significance of academic integrity, teaching practice information and an interactive question-and-answer session formed part of the interactive sessions, which offered personalised assistance to ensure that the CODeL students receive support tailored to their individual needs and aspirations.

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Attendees and presenters at the Gauteng session

The teaching strategies workshops highlighted innovative approaches to teaching that engage CODeL students and enhance learning outcomes. Assessment techniques sessions provided insights into effective assessment practices that promote student understanding and academic growth. Moreover, discussions on academic integrity emphasised the importance of upholding ethical standards in academic work.

The teaching practice workshop delved into best practices for the future educators to create inclusive and effective learning environments in the age of AI.

"Overall, the face-to-face student support programme exemplifies our commitment to nurturing student success through comprehensive support and guidance," said Dr Debbie Lees, Teaching and Learning Coordinator for CEDU: DCIS.

"By addressing a wide range of themes essential to student development, this initiative demonstrates Unisa’s dedication to fostering a conducive learning environment for all students," added Prof Lebo Mudau, Acting Chair: CEDU:DCIS. 

The overall team consisted of Victor  Nkuna, Steven Shabangu, Khunjulwa Peter, Mandla Mkhwanazi, Tebalelo Aphane, Dr Sizwe Mahlambi, Dr Mirriam Moleko, Zandile Kubheka, Dr Fulufhelo Mukhati, Prof Bheki Mpungose, Tebatso Moloto, Raisibe Matome, Prof Bernie Plaatjies, Nomahlubi Sitsha, Nomathamsanqa Wongo, Nontobeko Khumalo, Dr Moffat Majola, Dr Nduduzo  Gcabashe, Prof Safura Meeran, and Dr Thabisile Maphumulo.

Through regional collaborative initiatives like this, CEDU continues to set a benchmark for student-centred education and support in the realm of CODeL.

Student support services include a variety of non-human and human resources that Unisa provides to its CODeL students to lead them and facilitate their awareness of valuable educational experiences.

* By Dineo Horner, Department of Curriculum and Instructional Studies

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Publish date: 2024/10/11

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