31 Aug 2017

Okavango Research Institute deputy director, Professor Joseph Mbaiwa has underscored the need for technology to be integrated into learning and teaching in various subjects in schools.

Prof. Mbaiwa said that should be done in such a way that it fostered engaged learning and develop essential skills that help students to become effective global citizens.

He said this when delivering a speech at the Botswana Association of Teachers of English (BETA) conference held in Maun under the theme 'The Use of ICT to Support English Language Teaching and Learning in the 21st century-a Must for All.'

Prof. Mbaiwa stated that it was unfortunate that in Botswana, professional development in educational technology was largely underfunded and many teachers simply did not get the help they needed to integrate technology effectively into their courses.

As a result, he said many teachers remained intimidated by technology or just doubt its usefulness, adding that moreover, technology was perceived with a negative eye and stigmatised as bad for students.

“This happens when it is wrongly used and students not well trained and mannered,” he added.

He emphasised the need for teachers and learners to be equipped with the latest tools and techniques to enhance teaching and learning in schools.

He said the use of technology such as computers and the internet opened doors to a variety of exciting, new ways to discuss and communicate effectively with students.

Prof. Mbaiwa stated that English language had a great reach influence around the world and that it had become a global means of communication.

In addition, he noted that schools needed to be equipped with the necessary tools and techniques to learn the English language.

Teaching English with technology, he said meant that educators needed to be shown the technology, adding that both teachers and learners needed to be provided with models and technology to use.

Secondly, he said an effective discussion and collaborative approach was at the heart of every successful English language learning, adding that the sharing of information and ideas encouraged students to engage actively with course material and to articulate opinions based on sound critical thinking.

“Technology could be a great asset in the learning of English in the classroom, offering authentic writing activities and endless resources on grammar and instruction, lesson plans and other central topics,” he added.

Prof. Mbaiwa said computers, tablets and e-readers could all be instrumental in learning English, offering interactive and motivating activities for students of all ages.

A teacher from Maoka Junior Secondary School, Ms Gaone Moloi shared the sentiments that e-learning was the way to go nowdays, adding that ‘today we are living in an era where information is vast’.

She said the use of technology could make learning and teaching easy and appealing.

Ms Moloi is one of the beneficiaries of Fulbright Alumni, US government sponsored exchange programme and she had an opportunity to study in America and appreciate how public schools use technology.

She said technology had power to transform ther education sector as users could collaborate globally with others.

Ms Moloi said learners should be responsible and independent, adding that as teachers they should teach them accountability so that they use devices for a good purpose. ENDS