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E-learning at DUT

E-learning at DUT

The Durban University of Technology offers its staff the opportunity to attend professional development in e-Learning, to promote interactive, self-paced modes of learning..

Odette Swift, DUT Sign Language Lecturer has implemented visual learning in her classes and has seen the improvement from her students. E-learning promotes independent learning for students while blending this with face-to-face encounters with lecturers as well the use of technology.

E-learning has been part of the DUT programme for the past 12 years and was formulated to better equip educators so that they can prepare their students for the technology centred workplace. Students who are enrolled in Swift’s sign language classes can access e-learning material anywhere.

Swift has been a sign language lecturer for the past three years. For her, using visuals to educate students is part of moving DUT into the 21st century. Better equipped educators make better equipped students. E-learning also provides students and lecturers more time to engage with each other on a one-on-one basis, thus allowing lecturers to understand their students’ individual needs.

Mari Pete DUT e-learning Specialist and Facilitator of Pioneers Plus said blended learning is the way of the future. Providing students with the use of 21st century technology in their classrooms creates an environment where students are more confident and independent. The e-learning class is self tutoring and can be done at the students pace.

“I have developed a platform where my students engage with me anonymously, it is a safe space for the students and it makes learning much easier and accessible,” said Swift. It is DUT Vice Chancellor Professor Ahmed Bawa’s vision that by 2014, half of the courses offered at DUT would be available online as well.

–Nomvula Sikakane
Pictured: Ayesha Mall; DUT Journalism Lecturer, Preggy Reddy; CELT e-learning blackboard server Administrator, Odette Swift; DUT Sign Language Lecturer and Mari Pete; CELT e-learning Specialist and Facilitator of Pioneer Plus.

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