DF pupils get extra tutorials via satellite
Tertiary level tutors have been beamed in – via satellite – to help pupils at DF Malherbe High School, using Stellenbosch University’s Telematics Schools Programme.
Launched last week, the DF Malherbe Telematics Laboratory – valued at about R17,000 – is aimed at improving matric results.
The university has an education technology platform that is managed by the Division for Telematic Services.
This platform integrates satellite, cellphone, internet and video conference technology to create a modern and academically unique virtual environment for pupils.
Telematics coordinator and mathematics teacher at the school, Roenel van Rooyen, said the school hosted daily hour-long sessions after school for grades 10 through to matric.
“The classes tackle different subjects with university subject experts.
“Before each session, a WhatsApp number is provided so the children can ask questions directly to the lecturer and it appears on her monitor to respond in real time,” Van Rooyen said.
“It is also very beneficial in terms of revision.
“So often we will have matrics sitting in on a grade 11 lecture to refresh, which is not always possible to do in normal classes given the amount of work we need to finish in a short space of time.
“While kids are still getting used to the idea, by next year it should be in full swing.”
Matric pupil Aligugu Malgas, 18, said the classes were hugely beneficial.
“Just being able to get to a fresh perspective and looking at a problem from a different approach really assists in understanding what is being asked of you,” Malgas said.