Critically discuss the difference and similarities that can be identified on basic of technology as external determinant of the various education system of South African,Botswana and Zimbabwe

Answer 1

Introduction:

Technology is one of the major external determinants that can influence the educational systems of various countries. In the case of South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, technology plays a crucial role in shaping the education systems of these countries. The purpose of this essay is to critically discuss the differences and similarities that can be identified on the basis of technology in these countries' education systems.

Technological determinants of education systems in South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe:

a) South Africa:

The technological factors in the education system of South Africa are influenced by the country's economy, educational policies, and the government's initiatives. The nation's education system is divided into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, with each level having unique technological factors that affect it. Technological equipment such as computers, tablets, and digital projectors are available in schools across the country. However, technological infrastructure in rural areas is limited, affecting the quality of education in such areas.

b) Botswana:

Botswana has made significant strides in integrating technology into its education system. The country's government has implemented various programs aimed at improving the education system's quality through technology. For instance, the establishment of Digital Education Broadcasting Platform (DEBP) aimed at providing rural schools with access to digital educational content, and the establishment of The Botswana Innovation Hub (BIH) meant for nurturing innovation and research and development in the country. This has played a significant role in promoting a technologically advanced education system.

c) Zimbabwe:

Zimbabwe's education system has been affected by the country's economic struggles, leading to inadequate resources and technological infrastructure. The country's government has, however, been trying to integrate technology into the education system, with initiatives such as the Zimbabwe National e-Learning Strategy, aimed at promoting online and distance learning. However, Zimbabwe still lags behind in the integration of technology compared to other countries in the region.

Differences:

One significant difference identified is that Botswana has made remarkable progress in integrating technology into its education system due to its well-established research and development programs compared to South Africa and Zimbabwe. Thus, there are significant differences in terms of access to technology across the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels of the education system.

Secondly, South Africa has a better technological infrastructure compared to Zimbabwe, making it possible for the country to provide technology-based education in classrooms. Zimbabwe's economic struggles have affected the country's infrastructure, including its technological development, leading to limited access to technology in schools, hence a lower technological integration level compared to South African.

Similarities:

Despite the differences, the country's education systems share some similarities in terms of challenges faced by the lack of technological infrastructure in rural areas, limiting access to technology-based education. Thus, there is still some room for infrastructure development in all three countries, with efforts on technological integration being a significant determinant of the quality of education. Furthermore, all three countries have established programs aimed at integrating technology into the education system, with their respective governments taking responsibility for technological development.

Conclusion:

Technology is an essential factor in shaping the education system in Africa. South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe have unique approaches to technological integration, with differences and similarities observed in their education systems resulting from various technological and economic-related factors. While much progress has been made in integrating technology into the education system, it is imperative to focus on building adequate technological infrastructure that will facilitate technology access across all levels and areas of the education system.