SD4GE II harness technology to support teaching & learning in Covid-19

To mitigate the impact of COVID-19, innovative learning experiences are crucial, especially in the TVET context. To achieve this, SD4GE II is collaborating closely with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) to deliver relevant training measures. This year, SD4GE II has adapted its approach to provide accessible, remote, quality training for both lecturers /facilitators as well as TVET college management. 

Remote Teaching and Learning micro courses help lecturers use digital tools 
The COVID-19 pandemic posed a variety of challenges for TVET lecturers including being able to teach remotely. In keeping with the strategic priorities determined jointly with relevant DHET stakeholders in January 2020, targeted TVET personnel were trained to utilise innovative, online training tools and methods.  
The aim is to enable lecturers to teach remotely with more confidence, utilising available digital tools to design, plan, conduct and evaluate learning activities. Additionally, this would enable lecturers to, establish an interactive learning environment between them and the apprentices using digital applications and tools. The remote teaching also facilitates the sharing of on-line self-study materials that foster peer-to-peer learning amongst apprentices.  

Virtual reality training tools improve job readiness as pilot project apprentices gain cutting-edge skills 
The Creating Virtual Reality Products for Training and Employment (CRV4TE) pilot project was launched to support efforts to assist graduates of the DHET’s Dual Systems Pilot Project to transition from learning to earning.  

8 DSPP graduates were selected from a shortlist of 20 and embarked on a programme to develop their capacities and skills to utilise cutting-edge software to develop virtual Learning Support Material aligned to the National Occupational Curriculum Content (NOCC) Electrical Trade curriculum. The apprentices are now part of a dynamic team, using their own experience as the first cohort of the DSPP to design and develop relevant, engaging content as well as informing delivery modalities, relevant for the target group. 

Apart from the development of technical skills, this training includes professional and personal development as integral pillars of the CRV4TE model. Hands-on coaching is utilised to impart sound work ethics and values geared at preparing apprentices to meet the demands of their current and future employers.
The results are already promising, as despite the COVID-19 lockdown, the apprentices continued to work and conclude the first batch of virtual reality products: a virtual tour of a typical construction site; and possible scenarios for electrical work, and how these tasks could be conducted.