Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives and is increasingly being used in various fields, including education. In Africa, the use of technology for learning is seen as a way to bridge the gap between students in rural areas and those in urban areas, as well as to improve the overall quality of education. However, as with any new technology, there are myths and facts surrounding its use in Africa including Tanzania. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most common myths and facts about the use of technology for learning in Africa as a whole taking Tanzania as the use case since we have been working in this market for more than 8 years now.
Myth: Technology is too expensive for Tanzanian schools
Fact: Technology is becoming more affordable in Tanzania and many schools are now able to afford it. With the increasing number of technology companies setting up operations in Africa, the cost of technology is going down. Additionally, governments are investing in technology infrastructure and providing subsidies to schools to purchase technology.
Myth: Technology is not necessary for learning
Fact: Technology plays a vital role in today’s world and is essential for learning. It provides students with access to information, resources, and tools that they would not otherwise have. It also helps to engage students and make learning more interactive and fun. Additionally, technology can be used to provide access to education to those who live in remote areas and may not have access to traditional education with both online and offline access using solutions like Kisomo App.
Myth: Technology is a distraction
Fact: Technology can be a distraction if not used properly. However, when used correctly, technology can be a powerful tool for learning. For example, students can use technology to access educational resources, collaborate with classmates, and even take online classes. Additionally, technology can be used to provide feedback to students and track their progress, helping to improve their learning experience.
Myth: Technology is only for urban students
Fact: Technology can be used to bridge the gap between urban and rural students in Tanzania. With the increasing availability of technology, students in rural areas can now access the same resources and tools as those in urban areas. This can help to improve the quality of education for students in rural areas and give them the same opportunities as their urban counterparts.
Looking forward, the use of technology for learning in Africa overall is becoming increasingly important. With the right approach and resources, it can help to improve the quality of education and provide access to education to those who may not have it otherwise. It is important to note that technology is not a magic solution, but when used correctly, it can have a significant impact on education in Tanzania and beyond and companies like Smartcore is at forefront of pushing this adoption by providing relevant and interactive digital learning solutions.