The Student Recruitment Unit at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently hosted an innovative Teach the Teacher Workshop at the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics (FAI) Computer Laboratory, Ritson campus in Durban.
The aim of the workshop was to provide a platform for mathematics and science educators to engage with innovative teaching methodologies, to share best practices and explore new resources to make learning more engaging and accessible.
The workshop’s objective was to equip teachers with the ability to teach these subjects in innovative and creative ways; and to inspire learners through their teaching practices to take up Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects at the FET phase of schooling.
Speaking about the workshop, Dr Nishi Ramrathan, Student Recruitment Officer at DUT, explained that the initiative drew on expertise from diverse disciplines to provide a rich and engaging learning experience.
“The backdrop of a growing concern is a decline in the number of learners choosing Mathematics and Science, particularly at the secondary level. Recognising this challenge, the government has also placed strong emphasis on revitalising STEM education. This is done through curriculum reviews, resource investment, teaching upskilling, and learning support initiatives,” said Dr Ramrathan.
Circuit Manager from Umkomazi, Mr Linda Mthembu discussed the Department of Education’s stance on Mathematics and Physical Science in the school curriculum during his presentation “Shaping the Future of STEM Education.” He emphasised that these subjects enhance understanding of the world, foster innovative problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity, and empower communities to innovate and make informed decisions in fields like engineering, medicine, agriculture, and technology.
He outlined actions needed, including advocating for better resources from the DOE and MSIT directorate such as implementing training programmes, providing school equipment, and mobile laboratories. He also mentioned that achieving good results could help with attracting sponsorship and partnerships. Mr Mthembu also mentioned establishing twinning programmes for networking and team teaching.
Professor Deonarian Brijlall, spoke about the Action Process Object Schema (APOS) Theory in Mathematics and Physical Science Learning. Prof Brijlall started by defining the meaning behind the APOS theory which proposes that maths understanding arises as learners build mental actions, processes, objects, and schemas to interpret and solve math problems.
Prof. Brijlall explained that action included transforming objects perceived as external, requiring step by step instructions, Process was when the action was repeated and reflected upon, no longer needing external stimuli, Object was when the process was encapsulated as totality, Schema was the collection of action, processes, object and other schemas linked by general principles.
Mr Ebrahim Asmal, who presented an engaging session on Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Teaching Support, urging educators to rethink pedagogy through the lens of intelligent systems, data‑driven insights and seamless automation.
Educators were also treated to interactive sessions featuring robots that demonstrated adaptive tutoring, 3D printers that churned out custom teaching aids on the spot, and virtual reality technology that immersed participants in simulated labs, allowing them to explore creative and modern approaches to teaching while experiencing firsthand how these tools can boost engagement, personalise learning, and bridge abstract ideas with tangible experiences.
DUT’s Student Recruitment Officer, Mr Michael Zulu, extended his heartfelt gratitude to all educators and the organisers of the event. He also expressed appreciation to the tutors who dedicated their time to guiding educators through robotics experience.
Pictured: The DUT Student Recruitment team, staff, and educators at the Teach the Teacher Workshop.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
