Introducing Diji

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WhatsApp Bot for learning in local languages

South Africa is in a skills crisis, compounded by the demands of an increasingly digital world. Its citizens need to learn basic digital skills, including how to use computers and how to search for, and assess, information. These skills could enable them to start their own small business or to recognise fake news and scams online.

Online learning platforms do not cater for the majority of South Africans. The courses use too much data and are presented in a language that is not familiar to the learner. We conducted research with over 8,000 respondents and 94.5% of them wanted to learn on their cell phone and in their mother tongue language.  

With Diji, our WhatsApp chatbot, we have combined the power of WhatsApp and mother tongue language learning to develop short courses on basic digital skills for Zulu speakers. Click here to start learning digital skills on WhatsApp, in Zulu, for free!

Media enquiries 

For media enquiries, please send an email to: hello@mcnulty.co.za

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Computational Thinking in Education

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Computational thinking has become a crucial skill for students to develop. It’s not just about coding; Computational thinking involves problem-solving, critical thinking, and logic, all cornerstones of a well-rounded education. By integrating computational thinking into the curriculum, educators can help students acquire transferable skills that’ll benefit them in various aspects of their lives.

A key aspect of computational thinking is algorithmic thinking, which teaches students to break down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. This skill is applicable not only in computer science but also in various subjects such as mathematics, science, and even humanities. Furthermore, computational thinking encourages the development of pattern recognition and abstraction, fostering creativity and innovation among young minds.

Perhaps most importantly, computational thinking fosters a sense of digital literacy among students. In today’s digital age, everyone must have a firm grasp of technology and its applications. By incorporating computational thinking in education, students will be well-prepared to navigate the ever-evolving digital technology landscape and make informed decisions in their personal and professional lives.

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Do you have what it takes to be a Foundation Phase teacher?

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Find out all the facts behind teaching grade one, two and three learners, and decide whether you are the the right fit for this challenging career!

Foundation Phase teaching is the teaching of learners in grades 1, 2 and 3 in the South African school system. Generally, one teacher is responsible for teaching all subjects, and it is a foundational period as this is when reading, writing and numeracy are taught. 

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Typical Foundation Phase teacher activities 

The Foundation Phase teachers are responsible for the following activities:

  • The preparation of lessons as per the CAPS curriculum requirements
  • Researching new teaching aids and support material such as textbooks
  • The development of each students’ interests and abilities through activities
  • Tracking the progress of each learner. Reporting this back to the parent or guardian as well as senior members of the school
  • Responsible for guiding and supervising work in class while retaining discipline (a sometimes difficult task with younger learners!
  • Maintain all records as required by the Department of Basic Education
  • Participate in staff meetings, parent-teacher conferences and other events as required
  • Fulfil assessment requirements such as conducting and marking tests

The Foundation Phase teacher’s role is varied and exciting but can also become overwhelming in larger classes. The suitable systems and processes need to be put in place early in a teacher’s career.

A Foundation Phase teacher in a classroom
A Foundation Phase class

What is the Foundation Phase?

The Department of Basic Education is responsible for K12 education in South Africa, and the local curriculum is called CAPS. This curriculum is divided into four phases – Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Senior Phase and FET. Foundation Phase is the first three years of schooling, and the medium of instruction is the learners home language. The language of teaching and learning then switches to English in the Intermediate Phase and for the remainder of the schooling system.

At Foundation Phase, the learner’s subjects are Languages (Home and First Additional), Mathematics and Life Skills. These three subject areas prepare the learners for the rest of their school career, and it is essential to get teaching right at this level!

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