Skills (8)
Education
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Jan 1987
University of South Africa (UNISA)
M.Ed (curriculum studies)South Africa · Pretoria
Other
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LanguagesEnglish; Afrikaans
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Scientific MembershipsSAARDHE; HELTASA
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Journal RefereesSerials The Journal for the Serials Community
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Other InterestsHerbs and Indigenous Plants and its uses; Porcelain; Cooking;
Publications (1) View all
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Article: Videoconferencing at UNISA: Synchronous real-time discussions for student support
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ABSTRACT: Learner support requires people and technology – an expensive and difficult endeavour for any institution. This paper summarizes a number of action research projects that investigated the practices of discussions with students via videoconferencing (using telephone lines) at a mega-distance education university, the University of South Africa (UNISA). An historical review shows the development and need of this unique personal communication method. The methodology of this action research project refers to interviews and written reflections as qualitative data that portrays the authentic voices of the lecturers and students. From the UNISA case studies and the literature analysis, we analyze similarities and differences and suggest recommendations. The data suggests the effective use of modern videoconferencing strategies is dependent on 10 key factors. Using videoconferencing reduced costs, supports collaborative learning, increases learning support, increases access, and improves the personal relationships with the learner. Personal attention to students is possible through videoconferencing in fast-changing African distance education where society change is driven by technology change, societal and financial pressures, and polical changes -a personal touch in an ICT-driven African educational and training scenario.08/2004;
