Reply To: General Discussion
Answers to AAU Secretary General Prof. Olusola’s Questions
a. What is the current approach to teaching and learning in Africa?
The current approach to teaching and learning in Africa is premised more on the traditional method where the teacher is seen as a purveyor of knowledge and learners are rather taken as passive listeners. Students tend to imitate the teacher/instructor.
What are the demerits of the current approach to teaching and learning in Africa?
According to critics of this approach, it leaves narrow gap for students to discover their capabilities and exposes their inability to apply 21st century skills
b. What new approach is being proposed to teaching and learning in Africa?
The Transformative approach is being proposed which allows the learner to play a more participatory role in the teaching and learning processes.
c. What are the benefits of the new approach?
This approach allows the leaner to play a more active role in the learning process through experiential activities, projects and problem-solving (process skills). It can also lead to discovery of knowledge and skills and innovation
d. What will it take to re-calibrate African professors and learners for the new approach to teaching and learning in Africa?
It will require policy, curriculum change, investment and training
e. How can we further promote life-long learning in Africa?
Lifelong learning can be promoted through the implementation of the CESA/STISA frameworks including paradigm shift in curriculum design, teaching and learning strategies, regional and continental synergies among AHEIs and increased GDP/education national and institutional budgets
f. What roles do digitalization have to play in the new approach to teaching and learning in Africa?
a. Increases experimental learning,
b. Enhances flipped classroom,
c. Allows learners to learn at their own pace,
d. Creates world-wide collaboration and partnership,
e. Promote innovation, reduces drudgery,
f. Bridges the digital divide,
g. Provides relevant knowledge and skills,
h. Increases access and ensure quality education provision,
i. Ensuring that higher education is responsive to Africa’s priorities and relevant to the labour market
Basiru Mbenga
Centre Manager Insight Training Centre
Kuntaya, The Gambia
