While addressing the attendees, the University Vice-Chancellor Owek Amb. Al-haj Prof.Badru D.Kateregga informed members that the concept of traditional education has changed radically within the last couple of years. Being physically present in a classroom isn’t the only learning option anymore. Nowadays, you have access to a quality education whenever and wherever you want, as long as you have access to a computer. We are now entering a new era — the revolution of online education.
He added that online education is flexible and enables the lecturer and the student to set their own learning pace. As a result, using an online educational platform allows for a better balance of work and studies, so there’s no need to give anything up.
Prof Kateregga also reminded members that “Technology will not replace teachers, but teachers who will not embrace technology will be replaced by those who will embrace technology”.
The facilitators of the workshop were Prof.Jude Lubega a Professor of Information Technology who has vast experience in ICT4D, Mr.Joseph Lwevuze Kisaakye who is a Cyber security expert, he is also a specialist in CCNA security, advanced security and forensics, cyber roam, cyber ops.
Among the areas that were focused on include but not limited to, understanding digital pedagogy, Rapid E-content Development, active digital learning, effective E-learning content design using the learning object concept, introduction to content authoring tools, developing engaging instructional material, E-assessments, setting and managing an online Exam-VLE, online collaboration tool to mention but a few.
The participants included the Deans of Schools, HODs, School Coordinators, lecturers and administrative staff who overwhelmingly thanked their Deputy Vice-Chancellor (ARII) Dr Wardah Rajab M.Gyagenda for organizing such a necessary and timely gathering.
In their reactions, lecturers appreciated Management for organizing such fora which will not only make them fit perfectly in the digital era, but add academic value to them and their daily operations.
The integration of digital skills into University curricula is so significant and necessary and is here to stay .
By Julius Ssekatawa PRO Kampala University