Page 86 - UniZulu Annual Report 2020

Most of the negative perceptions about an online model were addressed through the new version of Moodle and the more advanced add-on functions of the tool. The student participation on Moodle has increased since March to more than 85-100% on average, but there were several students not participating in online learning. As a way of addressing student accessibility issues, academics tried stopgap solutions to continue teaching by sending materials, activities and assignments via WhatsApp or email. The reality is that several students did not have digital access, which meant a lack of access to reliable internet connectivity and a lack of access to tools and technologies (computers, tablets, smartphones), which does not allow them to fully participate in online learning while they are away from campus. These students were supported by the delivery of hard-copy study material. All faculties packaged and distributed learning materials for all those students who had indicated or were identified as having challenges with accessibility and connectivity. Bulk SMSs, WhatsApp messages and emails were sent to students to obtain their personal details and other necessary information to facilitate the delivery of materials.
TLP emanated from intense engagement with, among others, the Vice-Chancellor; Deputy Vice-Chancellors; the Registrar; Executive Directors for Institutional Planning, Director: Richards Bay, CEO: Finance, Director: Infrastructure; Faculty Deans as well as the Director ICT. TLP is a response by the University to the strategic need to work towards the successful completion of the academic year 2020, against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic and the myriad challenges it posed. Ultimately, this plan was underpinned by the principles that were outlined by the HEST Minister in his statement on the post-school system dated 30 April 2020. To achieve the goal of successful completion of the 2020 academic year, the University employed multimodal teaching and learning strategies for all its students. In this regard, the University was fully aware of the diverse socio-economic backgrounds of its students, which in turn replicate themselves in different levels of access to learning opportunities, including in the digital sphere. In substance, the University seeks to ensure that every student will be able to learn remotely, online or using printed learning material and alternative communication channels with their lecturers.
UNIVERSITY OF ZULULAND ANNUAL REPORT 2020
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