As the current global pandemic intensifies, South Africans have been struggling to adjust to the new reality of distance learning. Despite the increased access to technology that has been facilitating the move from traditional classrooms, transitioning to learning from home is still a challenge for many. School-age children may not have the self-discipline and independence that is needed for distance learning, while some parents may not have the resources or skills to effectively support their children's learning.

In order to overcome the challenges of distance learning in South Africa, there are both short-term and long-term strategies that parents and students can take. Here are some recommendations to help make the transition smoother.

Short Term Strategies

• Organisation: One of the primary difficulties of distance learning is being able to keep yourself organised. Make sure to create a study plan and manage your time efficiently, in order to ensure that you’re able to stay on top of your coursework.
• Routine: Allocating specific times for waking up, studying and taking breaks can have a huge positive impact on productivity. A good way to encourage a healthy routine and increase focus is with the Pomodoro technique, which you can learn more about here.
• Online tools: Numerous online tools exist to help make studying easier and more enjoyable, such as online chat rooms, Google Hangouts, online discussion forums, and webinars. Utilizing these tools can help to create more social interaction and create an environment that more closely resembles a physical classroom.

Long Term Strategies

• Internet access: Internet access is a key factor in successfully transitioning to distance learning. If private internet access isn't affordable, there are programs such as Wireless for Hope working to bridge the digital divide in South Africa.
• Tech support: Parents of younger children may not have the technical skills to help their children set up their devices for distance learning or troubleshoot any problems that may arise. Seek out tech support from libraries or educational centers in your local area.
• Parent support groups: Networks of parents of distance learners can provide invaluable support for both parents and students. Groups like Distance Learning and Remote Learning Support South Africa aim to bring together those struggling with distance learning, in order to provide resources and offer advice.

Qiktruck: Making Distance Learning Easier

Distance learning can present unique logistical problems for South African families, such as transportation of materials between home, school and learning centres. That’s where Qiktruck comes in – the on demand truck and driver hire service. Qiktruck is equipped to handle any cargo-related needs, such as quickly transferring large items such as computers and monitors, delivering educational materials like textbooks, or transporting student artwork and portfolios.

With Qiktruck, you can book a truck and driver to get your school supplies wherever they need to go when they need to be there. Our driver hiring service is available on demand, wherever you are in South Africa. Our drivers are experienced, professional, and equipped with full trackable vehicles. So, no matter what kind of transportation needs arise due to distance learning, Qiktruck can help make it happen!

Qiktruck is dedicated to being a part of the communities we serve, and we’re here to ensure that South Africans have the resources they need to continue learning from home. So if you're in South Africa and looking for help with distance learning, let Qiktruck help you get all your materials to where they need to be.

 

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