Discussing and evaluating the best practices through engaging in a literature review to report on the influence of technology as an external determinant in the education systems of South Africa, Ghana and Rwanda

Answer 1

Introduction:

The use of technology in education has been an important aspect of modern education systems in many parts of the world. In Africa, countries such as South Africa, Ghana, and Rwanda have been at the forefront of implementing technology in education. Technology is considered an external determinant that can influence the education systems in these countries. This literature review aims to evaluate the best practices of technology implementation in education in South Africa, Ghana, and Rwanda.

South Africa:

South Africa has made significant progress in integrating technology into its education system. One of the best practices in South Africa is the use of e-learning platforms. These platforms have been designed to provide online learning that is accessible to all students, irrespective of their geographic location. For example, e-learning platforms such as GetSmarter and Wits DigitalCampus provide a range of online courses that can be completed by students who have access to the internet.

Another best practice in South Africa is the use of interactive whiteboards in the classroom. These whiteboards allow teachers to present information in a more engaging manner, and students can interact with the content using touchscreens. This technology has been used in classrooms to enhance the learning experience of students and to improve their engagement and retention.

Ghana:

In Ghana, technology has been introduced mainly through the use of mobile devices. Many students in Ghana own smartphones, and this has made it possible to provide educational content through the use of mobile applications. One of the best practices in Ghana is the use of mobile applications such as Eneza Education, which provides educational content to students in Ghana and other countries in West Africa.

Another best practice in Ghana is the use of distance education. This approach has been used to provide education to students in remote parts of the country who do not have access to traditional school settings. The Ghana Distance Learning Center has been established to provide online courses to students who have access to the internet.

Rwanda:

In Rwanda, the government has implemented a national program aimed at providing digital education to students. One of the best practices in Rwanda is the use of One Laptop per Child (OLPC), which provides laptops to primary school students. These laptops come pre-installed with educational content that has been adapted to the Rwandan curriculum.

Another best practice in Rwanda is the use of smart classrooms, which are equipped with digital devices such as interactive whiteboards, laptops, and projectors. These classrooms allow teachers to present information in an interactive way, and students can interact with the content using digital devices. The smart classrooms have been used to improve the quality of education in Rwanda and to provide students with access to digital tools that can enhance their learning experience.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the use of technology in education has become an important aspect of education in South Africa, Ghana, and Rwanda. The best practices evaluated in this literature review demonstrate the potential of technology to improve the quality of education and provide access to education to students who might not have access through traditional means. These best practices can be adopted in other African countries to provide better educational experiences to students and improve the quality of education.