SA is the most dynamic e-learning market in Africa, according to the Ambient Insight Regional Report.
However, as the growth increases, technology infrastructure has become key to the foundational platform for e-learning and access. And as a result, the traditional education model is changing.
Michael Fletcher, sales director for Ruckus Wireless sub-Saharan Africa, says as the traditional model of education is evolving, schools and colleges are facing increasing challenges to provide higher-speed, more reliable WiFi to students, teachers and staff.
Fletcher points out that new mandates such as digital textbooks and 1:1 initiatives require entire classes to concurrently get online to view material, collaborate on projects and present their work. As such, schools everywhere are looking beyond current access models to the new generation of WiFi technology to support more users and diverse applications.
He notes that, in line with this, schools need strong security, full coverage and consistent connections - even when entire classes start sending videos at the same time. But for most educational institutions, tighter budgets and limited IT staff make the transition impossible. "However, Ruckus Wireless and solution partner UC-Wireless have recently solved the challenges for several schools with high-density WiFi application requirements for the implementation of e-learning," says Fletcher.
Quentin Daffarn, MD of UC-Wireless, believes that the first critical step to any effective e-learning platform is the installation of a robust, reliable, fast and seamless enterprise-grade high-density WiFi solution. It is a key foundational building block - if not the cornerstone.
"The integrated wireless solutions that we have designed with Ruckus solutions have the necessary user capacity to cover high-density operational areas within schools and operate in harmony by minimising interference, increasing speed and even video performance. This all occurs simultaneously with unprecedented security demands, while taking into account the unique challenges that are present within our own education eco-system," explains Daffarn.
According to Ruckus Wireless, having the correct network infrastructure and solution design in the academic arena, when it comes to WiFi technology, is crucial in generating effective educational participation.
The enterprise says that by doing so, collaboration is enhanced through encouraging student access and use of the network portal where teachers post homework requirements or study material.
Creating such a platform allows parents, learners and educators to dynamically participate in the learning process; students are encouraged to actively engage with their peers, while parents may keep track of their children's homework requirements and results, says the WiFi company.
Ruckus Wireless notes that the introduction and increased use of tablets in the education syllabus also enhances students' practical participation in the learning process, and when the need arises, the use of controlled Internet access may be utilised to further enhance the interactive learning experience.
In closing Fletcher, believes that technology has become an integral part of educating students all around the world. "Gone are the days when a teacher would sit down with their class and teach using just a textbook, blackboard and piece of chalk. Students today can now enjoy the use of tablets, and Internet in the classroom, offering a richer and more interactive learning experience," notes Fletcher.
Ruckus Wireless and UC-Wireless will be showcasing their WiFi solution at the African EduWeek - taking place at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, from 9 to 11 July.
EduWeek is Africa's education event and this year the conference will be exploring strategies from pan-African governments and universities on the roll out and implementation of literacy and numeracy programmes, e-learning and the shortage of qualified teachers in Africa.
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