Officials from the Mathematics, Science and Technology and Curriculum Innovation and e-Learning Directorate are currently visiting provinces to monitor Grades R-3 and Grade 7 schools piloting Coding and Robotics as part of the Schools Piloting Coding and Robotics Project. The schools that were visited this week include Mannyetha Primary School in the Sekhukhue East District and Mudzinga Primary School in the Vhembe West District, on 18 and 19 August 2022, respectively.
“The Coding and Robotics subjects are aimed at guiding and preparing learners to solve problems; think critically; work collaboratively and creatively; and function in a digital and information-driven world. Learners will therefore be able to apply digital and ICT skills and to transfer these skills to solve everyday problems. Furthermore, the subject aims at equipping learners to contribute in a meaningful way in a rapidly changing and transforming society,” said Mr Christo Jones, Chief Education Specialist for Technology, Coding and Robotics (Grade R-9) from the DBE.
He further explained that, in the Foundation Phase (Grades R-3) the subject has been organised into five study areas. Pattern recognition will identify abstract and geometric patterns as an integral part of the design and computational thinking process which will assist learners in solving problems. Algorithms and coding will include physical coding activities which progress from Grade 1 to digital platforms that are easy-to-learn and fun for learners to engage with. Robotics skills for learners will be introduced to the fundamental mechanical and electrical engineering systems and circuits that are used in robotics. It will include creating logical steps that robots can follow, as well as an understanding of basic electrical circuits. Internet and e-communicating, will cover topics such as digital identities, safety on digital platforms, a basic overview of networks and the internet, and the safe use of web browsers to search for information. Application skills will include the teaching of basic text editing and spreadsheet applications, as well as the use of digital devices.
In the Intermediate Phase (Grades 4-6) the subject has been organised into four study areas. Algorithm and coding programming skills will be developed by using a block-based coding platform. The block based platforms make use of easy to understand, drag and drop type coding where learners can focus on getting the details and correct inputs in the programmes. Robotics skills will introduce microcontrollers that will be coded using a block-based coding platform. For Internet and e-communication, topics will include digital citizenship and Internet use as well as concepts of piracy, plagiarism and copyrights and in application skills, topics will include text-editing, spreadsheets, multimedia editing and computer-aided drawing.
In the Senior Phase (Grades 7-9) the subject has been organised into four study areas: Algorithm and Coding programming skills will introduce learners to a line based coding platform through a hybrid programming platform consisting of block-based and line-based coding. Robotics skills will consist of two merging fields, including coding and engineering. Learners continue with mechanical and electrical engineering systems. The robotics strand combines the engineering design process and computational Thinking Process. The strand also introduces microcontrollers that will be coded using a line based coding platform. Internet and e-communication will be aimed at providing skills which prepare learners to interact safely in a digital online and offline world; Application skills, aimed at developing end-user skills that are used on different digital platforms. In the senior phase, learners are expected to engage with applications that build on data analysis and website development skills.
Mr Jones added that, “Efforts from provinces, districts and schools in introducing learners to the Fourth and Fifth Industrial Revolutions, and preparing them for lucrative future careers will uplift the SA economy. As the DBE, we will do our utmost to support teachers and learners”.