Leading Expert Advice from EDUC8 SA
Educ8 SA

Benefits of online schooling

Online schooling has been gaining popularity in recent years, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic but our founders Haelene and Hannes has home schooled all their 4 daughters and know what these benefits are. This mode of education allows students to attend classes and complete coursework from the comfort of their own homes. While some may have reservations about the effectiveness of online schooling, the benefits it offers are numerous. We will explore the top benefits of online schooling and why it may be the right choice for you and your family. 1. Flexibility and Convenience One of the most significant advantages of online schooling is the flexibility it offers. Students can access their course materials at any time, allowing them to create their own schedule and learn at their own pace. This is especially beneficial for those who have other commitments such as work, family, or hobbies. With online schooling, students can avoid the rigid schedules of traditional schooling and have more control over their education. 2. Cost-Effective Online schooling also tends to be more cost-effective compared to traditional schooling. With no need to commute to a physical schools, there is many cost that you can save on. Additionally, our online courses have lower tuition fees, and students can also save on textbooks. This makes online schooling a viable option for those looking for a more affordable education. 3. Diverse Course Selection Another advantage of online schooling is the wide range of courses available with Educ8 SA. We offer the Essential Learning preschool to Grade 8, GED and the American High School Diploma. With our selection of online schooling, students have access to a global network of education, providing them with a diverse learning experience. 4. Personalized Learning Online schooling often offers a more personalized learning experience compared to traditional schooling. Students can work at their own pace and schedule according to their daily schedules. We know how busy life can get and why does school work have to make up most of the day. Now you can arrange your day and do all your extra mural activities.  5. Improved Technical Skills In today’s digital age, having proficient technical skills is crucial. Online schooling provides students with an opportunity to improve their technical skills as they navigate various online platforms and software. These skills are highly sought after by employers and can give students an edge in the job market. 6. No Commute or Safety Concerns With online schooling, students can say goodbye to lengthy commutes and safety concerns associated with traditional schooling. By studying from home, students can avoid traffic, bad weather, and unsafe environments. This not only saves time but also provides a safer learning environment for students. In conclusion, online schooling offers a plethora of benefits that make it a viable option for many individuals. From flexibility and cost-effectiveness to diverse course selections and improved technical skills, online schooling provides students with a modern and convenient way of learning. As the world continues to embrace technology, online schooling at Educ8 SA is here to stay and has become an integral part of the education landscape.  So why not consider this mode of education and experience the benefits for yourself? Contact Educ8 SA today! 084 685 2138  info@educ8sa.net www.educ8sa.com

Educ8 SA

Educ8 SA – Curriculum Options

Educ8 SA has been around for 7 years now and has thousands of students…all learning on a fantastic platform.  The curriculum is easy to navigate, user-friendly and comes at an affordable price. We have a tried and tested curriculum that we are very proud of.  We believe that a good beginning never ends! And you can start any time with us.  What we offer learners: Start your Individualized Learning Program today! We offer 26 different subject components from Preschool to Gr. 12. If your kids are struggling and have learning Gaps? Not a problem for us, our program is remedial, and we will find and fix the missing learning gaps! Grade levels pre-school – Gr. 8: R450 per month GED: Grade 12 equivalent R500 per month General Education Development  American High School Diploma (Gr. 9 – 12): R1800 per month Our fees start at just R450. Let’s talk about our essential learning program. Our program is one of those programs that you log onto and learning is simple and easy to navigate. Kids can log on and complete work at any time and work  according to their pace. Making it easy to complete more than a grade level a year. Furthermore, our extra features… Parent Support:  Parents can log in anytime to view their child’s progress from the parent portal and see how their kids are doing and this helps with advising  which subjects to complete and which to focus on more. Student Support:  Our Student Managers are on duty from 8 am to 4 pm and are always available to help should a student contact them via their messenger for assistance. Please can you share some more information on the High School Options that you have available to students? When looking at our GED learning path. So once you finish your schooling from grade level 1 to grade 8, you will then be off to high school and this is when the GED comes in. It’s a high school Grade 12 equivalent Recognised by SAQA NQF 4 Self-paced R500 You can schedule exams once the pre-readiness testing has found students to be exam-ready Exams are written at any Boston College American high school diploma It is recognised at our universities, we just had 5 of our students accepted at different universities in South Africa. This program has been used by millions The online curriculum is taught by master teachers We offer year-round enrolment, so you can join any time Our curriculum covers all core subjects Our program allows students to graduate from an accredited online school And many more benefits… It is already March. Can students register at any time during the year? Yes you can register any time of the year and kids can work according to their own pace, so if they feel like completing more than one level a year, they can. We are ready for new registrations.

Educ8 SA

Cottage Schools and Learning Centres

We would like to welcome all Cottage Schools and Learning Centres, Tutoring Centres, and Private Schools to partner with us for a full schooling solution. Or if you’re a teacher looking for a new educational adventure, why not join our team and start your learning centre? Our Fees: Once off-Centre Registration Fee: R1500 Marketing Material & all Training included. Preschool – Grade 8: R450/student package. American High School Diploma, Grade 9 – 12: R1800 GED:  R500/student package (Includes digital course, PDF Study Guide, 1 for each subject, lots of bonus material, Mock Exams) You are most welcome to sign up all your students for our FREE Trial Period (Placement Test included) You may do so here: https://www.educ8sa.net/sign-up/ The following components are also included in our package: Digital Literacy, Core Subjects, and Career Studies. So, tell us a bit more about what you offer. Our program is offered in English. We offer a full curriculum solution based on our American curriculum. Students may log in 24/7/365. Parents can log in at any time to view their child’s progress from the parent portal.  Our students work at their proficiency level and their own pace.  This makes our program the ideal solution for special needs and exceptional students who need to be challenged.  Our Student Managers are on duty from 8 am to 4 pm and are always available to help should a student contact them via their messenger for assistance. These are just some of the fantastic features our program has to offer. Do you offer teacher support? Teacher Support: We are making the teacher’s life easier. Simple to use and easy to learn.  We immediately help with saving time for teachers, as we know they can get busy.  For example, students automatically begin fixing missing skills from the automatic placement test. In other words, teachers see progress reports without even having to assign a lesson. Even better, the built-in motivation tools and rewards keep students eager to learn more without the teacher’s intervention.  We are also proud to announce our 2022 EdTech Breakthrough Award, we were named Classroom Management Solution Provider Of The Year. Our program automatically allows you to monitor students’ progress in real time; this makes it possible to know exactly how each student is progressing. Analyze data for all standards in the common core by student, class, school, and district. The IEP (Individualized Education Program) Our program simplifies the IEP process by allowing you to set student goals that are automatically updated as students progress, saving you hundreds of hours of reporting. What other Support do you offer? Parent Support:  Parents can log in anytime to view their child’s progress from the parent portal. Our students work on their proficiency level and at their own pace. This feature makes our program ideal for special needs students and exceptional students who need a challenge. Student Support:  Our Student Managers are on duty from 8 am to 4 pm and are always available to help should a student contact them via their messenger for assistance. Assessments & Exams: We prefer the continuous assessment approach; therefore, our students in grades K – 8 do not write exams. For our high school students, exams will depend on their chosen matric option. These are just some of the fantastic features our program has to offer! What is the Registration Process for signing up? Registration Process: 1.  Complete our online form https://www.educ8sa.net/sign-up/. Your 14-day FREE trial period starts here! 2.  Login, then complete the Placement Test. 3.  Notify us once all Placement Tests have been completed. 4.  You will receive the results of the Placement Test by email. 5.  You will be requested to schedule a Zoom meeting with us to discuss the Placement Test results. 6.  We then set up your child’s personalized learning plan. 7.  Then Students may start with their lessons. 8.  We then invoice you should you wish to sign up! Term Dates & Holidays: Centre Students will follow their term dates. Virtual Students may decide when they take breaks. It’s up to every parent.  Our Accreditation: All our courses are accredited and listed on the SAQA website and accepted by our universities and Colleges.  Admission Requirements apply.  Our accreditation bodies are WASC and the US Council on Education. What you need to start: Internet connection, a device with earphones. Contact us at: 084 685 2138 info@educ8sa.net www.educ8sa.com

Educ8 SA

Our New Learning Centre

Please can you tell us more about your New Learning Centre that has launched this year? So, as everyone knows, we are an online education solution that improves lives through learning and offers amazing curricula. We are excited to be a part of this wonderful educational journey and expanding into our learning centres. We have many affiliated learning centres popping up all over South Africa and have also opened our own new learning centre. Our learning centre is for children aged 13/14 years old, from Grade 6 to Grade 12 & GED classes. The GED is equivalent to grade 12. We offer an American high school diploma for grades 9 to 12. Our learning centre is located in Somerset West area, and it opened on January 17th, 2024. Regarding the fees, the monthly cost is R3600 per month, and school hours run from 8 am to 2 pm. The centre is open until 4 pm. If you would like your kids to be a part of our learning centre, please contact us. We offer a warm and friendly learning environment, facilitated student learning, and great student support. Regarding what we offer students at the New Learning Centre that is different from a normal homeschooling programme, our founders Haelene & Hannes know how important it is to homeschool your kids. They have homeschooled their four daughters and know what a great thriving learning environment should be. We offer a safe learning environment, international accreditation, GED & American High School Curriculum options (NQF 4 equivalent), individual student attention, a space for fellow homeschoolers to meet new people and become part of a social group, daily attendance and monitoring, in-depth reporting for parents and students alike, “Life lessons” group sessions, individual goal-setting for academic and other aspects of our students’ lives, career guidance, examination prep, and much more. It’s going to be a lot of fun. If you are interested in enrolling your children in our learning centre, please contact us at info@educ8sa.net, visit our website at www.educ8sa.com, or call 084 685 2138. To reach us on social media, please contact Ulrich Pieterse at 066 243 1913 or email us at premium@educ8sa.net.

Educ8 SA

Educ8 SA – Improving Lives Through Learning

How has 2024 been so far for Educ8 SA? We’re off to a great start in 2024, as we ended our previous year on a high note. Education is our top priority, especially when it comes to children. We’re always looking for ways to become more involved with parents and kids. To prepare for this year, we’re opening more learning centers and expanding our capacity for more students. Our current trends include: Offering the easiest online registration process where you can sign up anytime, anywhere with just a few clicks. You can get your child enrolled in Educ8 SA in just a few minutes and receive a placement test to ensure they’re placed in the appropriate grade level. Utilizing smart technology on our platform. Providing an international standard with a world-class curriculum that is reflected in our students’ results. Offering personalized learning that caters to each child’s unique way and pace of learning. Educ8 SA is an affordable online education solution for homeschoolers and learning centers. We offer a broad curriculum with options for many different grade levels. Our fees include all tutorials, assessments, and informational packs. Grade levels: Pre-school to Grade 8: R450 per month GED (Grade 12 equivalent): R500 per month American High School Diploma (Gr. 9-12): R1800 per month Our content is presented interactively and engagingly. Our program is easy to navigate, user-friendly, and allows students to work at their own pace. It’s possible to complete more than one grade level a year. Students can log on and complete work at any time and from anywhere. This program is especially suitable for parents who travel for work and want their kids to learn while on the move. For parents, the start of the school year can be a stressful time. How can Educ8 SA put their minds at ease for the coming year? By registering with Educ8 SA, parents don’t need to worry about their child needing assistance with school work. With our program, students have direct access to their teacher throughout their school day to address any problems or issues that could result in poor performance or an unpleasant experience. With Educ8 SA, parents can rest easy knowing their child is in a flourishing environment and is happy. Our current parents are very satisfied with our program, and you can see their amazing reviews on our platform. To set up your child’s full online schooling solution, contact Educ8 SA today! You can reach us at 084 685 2138 or email us at info@educ8sa.net. For more information, please visit www.educ8sa.com.

Educ8 SA

The GED learning path

What topic will we be covering today? We will be discussing the GED learning path through Educ8 SA. A Grade 12 alternative Recognised by SAQA (NQF 4) Flexible Affordable Self-Paced Free Placement Test Affordable Fees: Monthly subscription of R500 Package includes: Digital Lessons PDF Study Guides Bonus material and links Study tips and tricks Typing Course Students work at their own pace and schedule exams once our pre-readiness test has found students to be exam-ready. Exams are written at any Boston College nearest to your location. Exam Fees: $80 / subject Due at the time of booking Give us more information about the GED course offered The GED is a high school Grade 12 equivalency credential. Let’s give you some background…in the 1940 veterans returning to the USA after World War 2 needed to obtain academic credentials to get civilian jobs and gain access to tertiary education or training. The GED test was developed for this purpose, similar to an adult matric. It has subsequently been written by more than 17 million students in the USA and around the world, including South Africa! What subjects does GED test? The GED Test consists of four subjects which you can write on different days: Reasoning through Language Arts 150 minutes (including 10-minute breaks) Mathematical Reasoning Is GED recognised in South Africa? When you research GED you will see that many different institutions accept them widely in South Africa but also abroad, if this is the route you are looking at going. So please make contact with Educ8 SA to discuss all your GED questions. We are happy to assist. Contact Us Today! 084 685 2138 info@educ8sa.net www.educ8sa.com  

Advice from the experts
Educ8 SA

Who is educ8 sa?

We are so proud of what we are doing within the Education sector. We are an award-winning online school from preschool to high school. Making it the ideal learning program for your homeschool curriculum. Primary school levels: Preschool to grade 8 R450 High school: American High School Diploma Grades 9 to 12 R1800 Our Online Learning Program is the ideal choice for anyone looking for top-quality, proven, flexible online schooling. So offering teaching excellence and a broad curriculum at affordable pricing to students. So if you are looking for the convenience and flexibility of online homeschooling from the comfort of your home, you have found it! What does a day in the life look like for students? You have the freedom to start when you want, hopefully early enough. We like to start at 8 am and aim to finish at 1 pm or 2 pm. Kids take about 2 breaks per day. It’s really up to how the parent wants to schedule, cause you have the freedom to or you can follow our provided calendar. So they usually start with 3 subjects break, 4 subjects lunch then 2 subjects. The curriculum is very well laid out, it’s an online program that’s lessons are from 10 to 30mins long. Our American High School Diploma is laid out a bit differently but the amazing thing about our high school curriculum, it gives your kids an advantage over the rest. It’s an international curriculum and it offers Varsity subjects, so when your kids go to university, they can start some subjects in their 2nd year already. We also offer the GED curriculum which is equivalent to a grade 12 Matric. Students work at their own pace and schedule exams once our pre-readiness testing has found students to be exam-ready. Exams are written at any Boston College nearest to your location. So just contact us to further discuss the option you would like to go with. Can you register anytime? Yes, you can register any time of the year and even start any time of the year. We have many options for registration… – Contact our office – Email us and we will send our informational pack – Website to sign up and it includes our 14-day free trial period. What are the highlights you can expect using Educ8 SA? -Affordable -Flexible -Tried and tested -Our grade levels are from preschool to grade 12 -Our reviews speak for themselves, a great program and great service In a nutshell: We are an affordable, quality Ccurriculum and what more can you ask for? Contact us Today! info@educ8sa.net www.educ8sa.com 084 685 2138 And on all Social Media platforms which include: Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn

Koa Academy

Understanding the trends that will shape SA Education in 2024

For the longest time, education systems have changed at the proverbial glacial pace.  However, the rapidity of change in every other human-made system over the past few decades has put education under excruciating pressures to transform, to keep up and prove that it is fit-for-purpose in the modern world.  Education in South Africa is undergoing significant transformation which is driven by several key trends. This is ushering in an era where South African children are increasingly being educated in different ways, in different kinds of school environments with their teachers serving in different roles.  In short, the education of today’s children is becoming increasingly different from the education that their parents experienced. Mark Anderson, the Principal of Koa Academy, a high engagement online school started in 2021 in South Africa, is a strong advocate for schools delivering a relevant education that ensures that learners develop the real-world skills they need to succeed in the 21st Century.  We’ve asked him to unpack six trends that are currently shaping the South African educational landscape and are set to become more evident in 2024. Learning is becoming personalised – Personalised learning customises education to the individual learners needs, interests, and abilities. This is a radical shift from the traditional school classroom model where standardised content is delivered to a group of learners.  According to Mark, we’ve known for decades that collective learning is far from effective, and that students learn best when they are on individualised learning pathways.  He says, “Due to constraints, we’ve traditionally modelled education on the assumption that if we teach in a very standardised way then most of the learners in the classroom will be with us, and that we might need to differentiate for just a small portion of that group.  But the reality is that when we do this standardised teaching and assessing, we actually miss most of the learners.  The research is clear, learning is a highly personal journey, and therefore our education needs to be tailored for individual learning, not group learning.  So, we are seeing big shifts in the ways that schools are thinking about how content is delivered and how assessments are done to be much more personalised and individualised, while at the same time operating within constraints, which may be economic, geographic, and meeting legislative requirements.” Personalised learning not only changes the education experience for learners.  Teachers are no longer mere presenters of content, but the expert guides and facilitators who dynamically support and coach each learner as they progress on their unique learning pathway. “Personalised learning unleashes the real expertise of teachers who are trained to have deep knowledge and experience of how people learn and about different learning styles,” says Mark.  “It also addresses the major concerns that parents have when their child is either left behind because they are struggling with certain concepts, or they are bored in class because they grasped some other content more quickly than their peers.” The growth of online education in South Africa is also driving the trend towards personalised learning.  Mark says, “The online space is amazing for personalising the education journey. It opens up limitless opportunities to present content in different formats to suit different learning styles.  Individualised dashboards and timetables empower learners to chart their own course and track their own progress.  These tools also enable teachers to track every learner’s progress in real-time and quickly identify where learners need additional support.  At Koa, parents can also access their child’s dashboard every day, and see their child’s progress on their academic targets in real-time.” Mastery and competencies are in the spotlight – The mastery-based approach shifts the focus from advancing because of your age or grade level to advancing because you’ve mastered the concepts.  This emphasises not only a deeper understanding of subjects and the abilities to apply learning but also ensures that no student is left behind. Mark says, “The real strength of the mastery-based approach is that we don’t plaster over gaps in learning.  Historically, this has been a significant problem for kids in South Africa where they are promoted into the next grade, even when they have big learning gaps.  This has happened particularly in Languages and Maths.  Kids are pushed through into the next grade because schools understandably must get them through the system.  They end up going to the next grade with a shaky foundation and then we keep building on top of that, and it all comes crumbling down.  The idea of mastery-based education is that you can move at your own pace.  Once you have shown mastery in a particular area, you can move ahead without having to wait for others.  So, if a child is particularly strong in Maths and ahead of their peers, they move on quickly.  They then have more time to focus on the areas where they are not so strong, perhaps in their language course they may need to slow down or take extra time to get help from a teacher.  The mastery-based approach goes hand-in hand with personalised learning, and it doesn’t work in large groups.” For teachers, the mastery-based approach means more precise assessments, greater flexibility, and a redefined role in helping students achieve mastery, rather than just teaching to a curriculum. Gamification has entered the education landscape – With its propensity to deliver dopamine boosts, gamification is making learning more engaging and interactive. Through game elements such as targets, leaderboards, points, and rewards, schools are creating more enjoyable and motivating learning environments. For learners, this trend can encourage problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity as they navigate through challenges and adventures in the pursuit of knowledge. Mark says, “It’s important to note that gamification in education is not just about having fun. It’s about being rewarded for progress and inspiring you to be accountable for your own learning.  The idea is that I know what my academic goal is, I know what I must do to reach my goal, and when I reach it, I am rewarded. 

Educ8 SA

What does Educ8 SA offer?

Educ8 SA offers an online education solution for homeschoolers and learning centers. It offers a broad curriculum at affordable pricing. Our Mission is Improving Lives Through Learning And that’s just what we are doing… Improving Lives by connecting students and teachers to world-class curricula and resources online Then our Vision is Expanding Learning Opportunities In making quality education more accessible and improving lives through learning experiences online Our content is presented interactively and engagingly. We also cater to all different learning styles, so it doesn’t matter your pace What curriculum options does Educ8 SA have to offer? We have many different options, and all our Fees include all tutorials, assessments, and informational packs. Grade levels pre-school – Gr. 8: R450 per month GED: Grade 12 equivalent R500 per month General Education Development GED Exam FEE: $80/subject – 4 Subjects American High School Diploma (Gr. 9 – 12): R1800 per month And our fees start at R450… What sets Educ8 SA apart from other curriculum providers? Educ8 SA was established in 2017 due to a gap in the South African Education market for students and families with unique needs and circumstances seeking an innovative learning environment. Our program has received more than 215 awards to date and is an amazing program to use. Our program is one of those programs that you log onto and learning is simple and easy to navigate. Kids can log on and complete work at any time and work according to their pace. Making it easy to complete more than the one-grade level a year. Furthermore, our extra features… Parent Support:  Parents can log in anytime to view their child’s progress from the parent portal and see how their kids are doing and this helps with advising which subjects to complete and which to focus on more. Student Support:  Our Student Managers are on duty from 8 am to 4 pm and are always available to help should a student contact them via their messenger for assistance. These are just some of the fantastic features our program has to offer! How to sign up and are you open for new registrations? You can contact us and we will forward our informational packs straight to your email address. Sign up for our 14-day free trial period, these are amazing as your kids will do placement tests which helps them be placed in the correct grade level. All you need to start is an Internet connection, a device, headphones, or earphones. And Yes, our registrations are open all Year!!! You can start at any time. Contact us on! info@educ8sa.net www.educ8sa.com 084 685 2138 And on all Social Media platforms which include: Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn YouTube

Wingu Academy

Setting boundaries – how to draw the line before it gets blurred

First, we need to look at why we need to set boundaries? Boundaries are the rules you set, about how others are allowed to treat you. The purpose of setting a healthy boundary is to protect and take good care of you, as well as, the relationship with others.   Whether it be in relationships, at work, at home or at school, they are crucially important to your personal well-being, as well as that of others. Why then, are we afraid of setting boundaries if they are there to protect us? Everyone is different Something that affects you might not be a big deal to someone else. This could make you feel like your boundaries are wrong.  Fear of Rejection  You might feel afraid to enforce your boundaries because it might upset someone else  Effort Enforcing boundaries can feel like a lot of work, so you might be tempted to ignore issues in the hopes that they will go away on their own. It is thus unfortunately easy for lines to get blurred.  These adapted guidelines from psychcentral.com may help you in the process of setting healthy boundaries: Enjoy some self-reflection To successfully introduce and set boundaries, it’s key to understand why they’re each important to you and how they will benefit your emotional well-being. Sometimes stuff happens to people that makes them feel uncomfortable, but they’re not sure why. The first step in having healthy boundaries in any situation is spending the time to explore what’s happening to you and why you feel uncomfortable. Start small If you don’t have many boundaries in place already, the prospect of introducing more might seem overwhelming — so build them up slowly. Doing so allows you to take things at a more comfortable pace, and it provides time to reflect on whether it’s heading in the right direction or if you need to make some tweaks. Set them early  It can sometimes be hard to start putting boundaries in, especially in pre-existing relationships. Rather set them straight away. By setting boundaries and expectations from the very beginning, everyone knows where they stand, and feelings of hurt, confusion, and frustration can be lessened. Be consistent Letting boundaries slide can lead to confusion and encourage new expectations and demands among those around you. Try keeping things consistent and steady. This helps to reinforce your original thresholds and beliefs, and it ensures those lines remain clearly established. Create a framework Boundaries may vary, depending on the type of relationship. However, if you find it helpful, there’s no reason not to have a few basics in place that can be adapted accordingly. Feel free to add extras In some aspects of our lives, there may already be boundaries in place, but consider these the minimum. Setting boundaries in certain aspects of your life, may lead to more productivity and feeling empowered. Be aware of social media These platforms allow for more communication than ever, but they’ve also encouraged some considerable boundary blurring. Oversharing can become a concern, especially on public platforms where family and friends may post personal information or photos that we don’t want shared publicly. If you deem a particular action as boundary-crossing in real life, your concerns are no less valid when it occurs digitally. Talk, talk, talk Communication is critical in the world of boundaries, especially if someone consistently oversteps yours. While you might need to raise your concerns, these discussions need not be confrontational. By approaching the situation relevant to the circumstances in context, it may prevent confrontation, resentment or awkward situations before it becomes a concern. Be your biggest champion For boundaries to have a strong foundation, you need to show yourself a bit of love. A lot of it comes down to self-worth and self-value. If this is lacking, you may find it difficult to set and enforce boundaries to protect yourself. Changing your internal dialogue will make you feel more deserving. Gain some perspective  Not having boundaries can be detrimental to our mental health, but going too far and over-thinking them can also impact our emotional well-being. It’s good to have boundaries, but don’t be dictated by them. Sometimes you’ve just got to go with your gut instinct. We can forget that we’re actually quite good at navigating most things and are quite intuitive as human beings. Also, flexibility is not always a bad thing, as long as it justifies a positive outcome.  Recognizing the boundaries of others In addition to setting your own boundaries, it’s important to appreciate those of others, too — even if they’re different from your own. Repeatedly violating boundaries can breed resentment and contempt, and cause people to withdraw. So, take a moment to consider what may be important to the other person. On a final note Don’t feel guilty about setting boundaries. They’re essentially a form of self-care, and we actively look to incorporate other elements of this into our lives daily — from eating a balanced diet to exercising. This should not be different! At Wingu Academy we have a dedicated Wellness Hub to assist in both academic and mental well-being. The Wellness Hub offers a range of free resources to parents, learners, as well as staff members to support personal growth and well-being. Read more about setting boundaries at: https://psychcentral.com/lib/10-way-to-build-and-preserve-better-boundaries#recap

Educ8 SA

Contact us today for all your GED needs!

If you’re interested in studying for the GED (General Educational Development) test, here are some steps you can take: 1. Familiarize yourself with the test: The GED test consists of four subjects: Math, Science, Social Studies, and Reasoning Through Language Arts (which includes reading and writing). Understand the content and format of each section. 2. Set goals and create a study plan: Determine when you want to take the test and set specific goals for each subject. Create a study plan that outlines what you’ll study and when. Be consistent and allocate regular study time. 3. Gather study materials: There are various resources available to help you prepare for the GED. You can find official study guides, practice tests, and online resources. Make sure you have access to relevant textbooks, study guides, and practice materials. 4. Break down the subjects: Divide each subject into smaller topics and focus on understanding the key concepts. Create a study schedule that allows you to cover all the necessary material. 5. Practice with sample tests: Take advantage of practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions you’ll encounter on the GED. This will help you identify areas where you need additional study. 6. Seek additional support: If you’re struggling with certain subjects or topics, consider seeking additional support. You can join study groups, hire a tutor, or take advantage of online forums and resources. 7. Review and reinforce: Regularly review the material you’ve covered to reinforce your knowledge. Use flashcards, summarize key points, and explain concepts to others. Active engagement with the material will enhance your understanding. 8. Monitor your progress: Track your progress by taking practice tests periodically. Identify areas where you need improvement and adjust your study plan accordingly. 9. Take care of yourself: A healthy lifestyle plays a vital role in effective studying. Get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, and manage stress. Taking care of your well-being will optimize your learning potential. 10. Register for the test: Once you feel adequately prepared, register for the GED test at an authorized testing center near you. Follow the registration process and make sure you have all the necessary documents. Remember, everyone’s study journey is different, so find a method that works best for you. Stay motivated, be consistent, and believe in yourself. Good luck with your GED studies!

Evolve Online School

UNLOCKING SOCIAL POTENTIAL: HELPING HOMESCHOOL STUDENTS DEVELOP HOLISTICALLY

Homeschooling offers numerous benefits, including personalised education, greater accessibility, safe environments, and flexible schedules. However, one concern many homeschooling parents still harbour – rightly or wrongly – is that their children might not benefit fully on the social development front. “Traditional school environments provide ample opportunities for social interaction, and it is natural for homeschooling parents to be concerned about the comparative exposure their children enjoy (or not),” says Colin Northmore, Principal at Evolve Online School, a brand of ADvTECH, SA’s leading private education provider. However, he says there are several proactive steps parents can take to ensure their children also develop strong social skills to address this concern. Northmore says practical strategies for connecting homeschooled students with peers and fostering essential social development can include a combination of the following: HOMESCHOOLING GROUPS “One of the most valuable resources for homeschooling families is local homeschooling groups or co-ops. These groups bring together homeschooling parents and their children, creating opportunities for social interaction,” Northmore says. “Joining a homeschooling group allows your child to meet and connect with peers with similar educational backgrounds,” he says, adding that there are some very active Facebook groups that can also assist parents and students. These include Homeschooling in South Africa, SA Home Schooling Group, Socializing Home schoolers South Africa, Homeschool South Africa, KZN Homeschooling and Cape Home Educators. “These groups often organise field trips, extracurricular activities, and social events, providing homeschooling students a chance to develop friendships and practice social skills. At Evolve Online, we organise several live events each year to facilitate the development of relationships between families, and these events are open to all families who have chosen homeschooling for their children.” SPORTS AND EXTRA-MURAL ACTIVITIES One of the challenges of homeschooling is for your children to find a balance in how they spend their time, notes Northmore. “If they use an online curriculum, you must carefully manage screen time. Getting your children to participate in Green-Time, Team-Time, and Dream-Time is crucial to their health and directly impacts their academic performance. “Enrolling your homeschooled child in sports teams, music lessons, art classes, or other extracurricular activities can be an excellent way to facilitate social interaction. Not only do these activities provide opportunities for children to make friends, but they also allow them to develop teamwork, communication, and cooperation skills. Be sure to choose activities that align with your child’s interests, as this will increase their motivation to participate and connect with peers who share their passions.” PLAYDATES Organise playdates with neighbours, friends, and family members with children of similar ages, and encourage your child to initiate inviting peers or joining others for playdates, recommends Northmore. “Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, skill, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength. Playing is vital for enhancing curiosity and creativity, building neural pathways to allow for questioning and to deepen learning. “It allows children to create and explore a world they can master, conquering their fears while practising adult roles, sometimes with other children or adult caregivers. As they master their world, play helps children develop new abilities that enrich their confidence and resiliency to face future challenges. Playing without someone telling them exactly what to do helps kids learn to be in groups, share, solve problems, and stand up for themselves.” COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Engaging in the local community and local community initiatives can create a supportive and enriching environment for the homeschooled child. “Encourage your child to volunteer for community events or community service projects. Such activities expose them to diverse groups of people and teach valuable life skills like empathy, leadership, and cooperation. Older children should also consider developing leadership skills by creating events in the community or being part of an organising committee.” LOCAL EVENTS & CLASSES Northmore says homeschooled children greatly benefit from exploring and getting involved in local events, workshops, and classes that align with the child’s interests. “Many libraries, museums, and community centres offer educational programmes or workshops designed for children. Attending these events enhances your child’s learning experiences and provides opportunities to meet and interact with other kids.” OPEN COMMUNICATION Communicate openly with your child about their social experiences and encourage them to share their thoughts, feelings, and challenges when connecting with peers. “You can help them navigate social situations and build self-confidence by actively listening and offering guidance. A rule of thumb when doing this is to ‘listen twice and speak once’. Your child may not want advice but perhaps a sounding board,” says Northmore. This approach is especially true for teenagers as they try to establish their identity. Building social skills in homeschooled students is essential for their complete development, concludes Northmore. “As a homeschooling parent, you can provide your child with a rich social life by leveraging local resources, online communities, and extracurricular activities. Through these strategies and your support, your child can thrive academically and socially, forming meaningful connections with their peers while benefiting from the advantages of homeschooling.”

Educ8 SA

Educ8 SA

Online education offers numerous benefits, some of which include: 1. Flexibility and Convenience: One of the significant advantages of online education is the flexibility it provides. Students can access course materials and lectures at their convenience, allowing them to study at their own pace. They can also choose when and where to study, making it easier to balance education with other commitments such as work or family responsibilities. 2. Access to a Wide Range of Courses and Programs: Online education breaks down geographical barriers, giving students access to a wide variety of courses and programs that may not be available locally. Students can choose from online courses offered by universities and institutions from around the world, expanding their educational opportunities. 3. Cost-Effectiveness: Online education is often more affordable than traditional on-campus education. Students can save on commuting costs, accommodation expenses, and other related expenses. Additionally, online courses often have lower tuition fees and provide digital course materials, reducing textbook costs. 4. Individualized Learning Experience: Online education allows for personalized and individualized learning experiences. Students can progress through the material at their own pace, focusing on areas that require more attention. They can also choose courses that align with their interests and career goals, tailoring their education to their specific needs. 5. Enhanced Technical Skills: Online education requires students to develop and utilize digital skills and technology tools. By participating in online courses, students gain proficiency in using various online platforms, collaboration tools, and multimedia resources. These technical skills are increasingly valuable in today’s digital age and can benefit students in their future careers. 6. Networking and Collaboration Opportunities: Online education provides opportunities for networking and collaboration with students and professionals from diverse backgrounds. Virtual discussion forums, online group projects, and video conferences facilitate interaction and knowledge sharing among students, fostering a global learning community. 7. Continuous Learning and Professional Development: Online education offers opportunities for continuous learning and professional development. Professionals can pursue online courses to enhance their skills or acquire new ones, helping them stay relevant in their fields and advance their careers without taking extended breaks from work. 8. Self-Discipline and Time Management: Online education requires self-discipline and effective time management skills. Students must be motivated and proactive in managing their study schedules and meeting deadlines. Developing these skills can benefit students in various aspects of life, including work and personal endeavors. Online education has proven to be a valuable alternative and supplement to traditional classroom-based learning, offering numerous benefits to a wide range of learners.

Educ8 SA

Educ8 SA – Our Essential Learning Course

Educ8 SA has been around for 6 years now and has thousands of students…all learning on a fantastic platform. The curriculum is easy to navigate, user-friendly and comes at an affordable price. We have a tried and tested curriculum that we are very proud of. We believe that a good beginning never ends! And you can start any time. If you are reading today, need a change and something that’s just easier for your kids, you have found us today and we are here to assist. Start your Individualized Learning Program today! We offer 26 different subject components from Preschool to Gr. 12. If your kids are struggling and have learning Gaps? Not a problem for us, our program is remedial, and we will find and fix the missing learning gaps! Can this curriculum be used as a full curriculum? Yes, it can. We cover grade levels preschool to grade 8 and American high school diploma, grades 9 to 12. We also have GED, which is equivalent to Grade 12. The program is designed to cover skills instead of outcomes, therefore it can be used alongside any curriculum and used as a full curriculum or as  supplementary to any other curriculum. It’s a 100% Integrated Curriculum This is the ONLY completely integrated curriculum covering: Math – Fact Fluency – Number Sense – Reading Stories – Reading Skills Literature Reading Skills Informational – Science – Social Studies – Phonics – Letter Names Letter Sounds – Phonics Blending – Phonics Spelling – Early Reading Trio – Sight Words Foundational Reading – Spelling Rules – Language/Grammar – Vocabulary – Spelling List Writing Workshop – Early Writing – Writing Assignments Key Features: Touch Curriculum Thousands of manipulatives designed for greater engagement and deeper learning Personalized Learning Individualized Education Plan for each student Built-in Engagement Badges, Games, Contests, Messenger, Vibes, Daily Challenges, Daily Comics and more. Find and Fix Identify and fix learning gaps Proven 2X Results The curriculum sets the standard for effectiveness All Subjects 26 subjects from Math to Science to Early Reading to Phonics Complete Solution Progress Monitoring, Diagnostic Tests, Assessments, Daily Goals, IEP, Adaptive Lessons, and Test Prep Our subjects: Science It’s a revolutionary way to teach science! Manipulatives engage students and teach cognitive skills. Students learn science while practising essential STEM skills. Mastery is tracked with quizzes and chapter tests. Social studies Teaching Social Studies will never be the same. Engaging lessons cover geography,  economics, government, history, and  essential social studies skills and practices. Enhanced motivation features hook students in social studies Maths Adaptive  Algorithms are used to find and fix missing skills with targeted lessons that include “Teach Me” Lessons, interactive manipulatives, and targeted practice. Math Students increase an average of 1.5 grade levels with just 40 hours of practice. And many more… Contact us today!

Koa Academy

A Principal’s Guide to Exam Season – Tips for parents, teachers and learners

The final exam season of the year is almost here, and it’s not unusual for a sense of dread to creep in.  It’s not just the learners who are under duress; exam time can be stressful for families and the school community.  Parents and teachers want to provide the right support, but it’s not always clear what that should be. For Mark Anderson, Principal of Koa Academy, the 2023 exam season is a milestone event.  It’s the year that the high engagement online school has its first Grade 12 cohort writing Matric exams.   He says, “There’s typically pressure all-round when it comes to Matric.  Learners and their parents feel that there’s a young person’s future at stake, while Matric results are regarded as a critical indicator of a school’s academic rigour impacting on the institution’s track record and reputation.  So, everyone wants to see outstanding performances across the board.  It’s important to recognise these high expectations upfront and put them into a proper perspective.  There’s a certain degree of stress and pressure that is useful for driving performance, but if this becomes too much, it makes it impossible for even the most diligent of students to do their best.  It’s about navigating a high-stakes time by finding balance.” Hands off or on?  How involved should parents be? There’s such a wide range of parent-child relationships in diverse family contexts that it is impossible to find one-size-fits-all advice.  What’s true though, is that during exam season, most parents find themselves treading fine lines. Mark says, “It can help for parents to think of their involvement during exam time in terms of the optimal role they could play.  In my view, this is about supportive accountability.  For instance, instead of seeing their role as a driver of their child’s performance or staying completely in the background, parents are more effective as their child’s primary supporter.  This means taking a keen interest but not taking over.  It helps learners when their parents hold them accountable in an appropriate way.  Your child should have the space to take ownership of their own study schedule and goal setting.  Checking in regularly though demonstrates your interest in their progress and their roadblocks which is supportive and motivational.” Parents also play an important role in facilitating an optimal study environment over exam season.  It’s not just about the studying.  To perform at their peak, your child needs to study in comfort, sleep sufficiently, eat healthily, exercise daily, interact socially and take breaks so that they can recharge.  Parents can help by keeping their focus on their child’s well-being and encouraging healthy habits.  In some families, parents can also play an important role in reducing distractions and household obligations, while monitoring procrastination which can lead to stressful, fruitless cramming before an exam.  Mark says, “Parents will want to be the champions of consistency and balance during exam season.  If your child is sitting up studying desperately until two in the morning, that’s a red flag, not a sign of dedication and determination.  We perform at our peak when we are well-prepared and confident, and you can’t give your best when you are exhausted and anxious.” Who’s the teacher? Teachers play a critical role over exam season in preparing learners and keeping perspective.  Typically, teachers cover study skills, exam techniques and providing opportunities for test practice.  Mark says, “It’s important for parents of learners in online schools to realise that they don’t suddenly need to become their child’s teacher. At Koa, our teachers work in small 8-person Pods and they are well-positioned to individually coach each learner through the exam preparation stage.” Advice for learners – keeping things in perspective Mark says, “Keep perspective, exams are not a sudden disruption to your school year, they are just part of the learning cycle.  Everything you do throughout a school year works towards your performance in an exam. Working consistently on your classwork, courses and projects throughout the year is all learning and preparation that leads you to writing the exams. That’s why consistency wins the day.  So, it is important not to see exam season as a surprise or once-off, or even disassociated event.  Exams are embedded in your learning, and therefore your long-term effort pays off best at exam time.” What’s also important for learners who are feeling like their whole future is at stake during exam time, is to realise that things are not that simplistic.  Life is long, people’s futures take many interesting turns, and the world is full of solutions.  Many parents have experienced this reality first hand and bringing that perspective during exam time can lift our eyes and relieve unnecessary expectations or pressure, while still striving for your best.  If you feel overwhelmed during the upcoming exam season, it’s important to reach out to a supportive parent, teacher or friend.  Remember, you are more important than any mark. Discover Koa Academy, visit www.koacademy.com

Educ8 SA

Note Taking – What is the best note taking ideas for primary school kids?

Note-taking is an essential skill that helps students organize and retain information. For primary school kids, developing effective note-taking strategies can lay a strong foundation for their academic success. Here are some of the best note-taking ideas for primary school kids. Firstly, visual aids can greatly enhance note-taking. Encouraging children to use drawings, diagrams, and charts to represent information can help them better understand and remember concepts. This technique also appeals to their creativity and makes learning more enjoyable. Secondly, teaching kids how to use keywords is crucial. By underlining or highlighting important words or phrases in their notes, they can easily identify key points when reviewing later on. Additionally, using different colors for different subjects or topics can aid in organization and retrieval of information. Furthermore, mind maps are an excellent tool for young learners. By creating a central idea and branching out with related subtopics, children can visually connect ideas and see the relationships between them. This method promotes critical thinking skills while making note-taking more interactive. Lastly, encouraging active listening during class is vital for effective note-taking. Kids should be taught to listen attentively and jot down important details rather than trying to write everything verbatim. This way, they focus on understanding concepts rather than simply transcribing information. In conclusion, developing good note-taking habits at a young age sets primary school kids up for academic success in the future. Visual aids, keywords, mind maps, and active listening are all effective strategies that help children organize information effectively while fostering critical thinking skills. By implementing these techniques early on in their education journey, we empower our young learners with valuable tools that will serve them well throughout their academic careers.  Note taking in general… Note taking is a fundamental skill that has been practiced for centuries. From ancient scholars to modern students, the act of jotting down important information during lectures or while reading has proven to be invaluable in retaining knowledge. The art of note taking involves actively engaging with the material, filtering out key points, and organizing them in a concise and understandable manner. One of the main benefits of note taking is its ability to enhance comprehension and retention. By writing down information, we are forced to process it in our own words, which aids in understanding complex concepts. Additionally, notes serve as a reference point for future review, allowing us to revisit important details without having to go through lengthy texts or lectures again. Note taking promotes active learning by keeping our minds focused and attentive during class or study sessions. It encourages us to listen actively and think critically about the material being presented. Moreover, notes can be customized according to individual learning styles, making them an effective tool for personalizing the learning experience. In addition to aiding comprehension and active learning, note taking also fosters organization skills. By categorizing information into headings or subheadings, we create a structured framework that facilitates easy retrieval when needed. This organizational aspect not only helps with studying but also improves overall productivity by providing a clear roadmap for revisiting topics efficiently. Note taking is an essential practice that enhances comprehension, promotes active learning, and fosters organization skills. Whether it is capturing ideas from a lecture or summarizing key points from a book chapter, this age-old technique continues to be an indispensable tool in acquiring knowledge effectively.

Educ8 SA

Welcome all Cottage Schools and Learning Centres!

We welcome all Cottage Schools, Learning Centres, Tutoring Centres, and Private Schools to partner with us.  If you’re a teacher looking for a new educational adventure, why not join our team and start your own learning centre?  Listed below are some of the great features we have to offer you: The following components are also included in our package:   Digital Literacy, Core Subjects, and Career Studies.   Our Fees:   Once off Centre Registration Fee: R1500 Marketing Material & Training included.  Preschool – Grade 8: R400/student package. American High School Diploma, Grade 9 – 12: R1600 GED:  R500/student package  (Includes digital course, PDF Study Guide, 1 for each subject, lots of bonus material, Mock Exams) You are most welcome to sign up all your students for our FREE Trial Period (Placement Test included) You may do so here:     https://www.educ8sa.net/sign-up/  Our program is offered in English. We offer a full curriculum solution based on the USA curriculum. Students may log in 24/7/365. Parents are able to log in at any time to view their child’s progress from the parent portal.  Our students work at their own proficiency level and at their own pace. This makes our program the ideal solution for special needs and exceptional students who need to be challenged. Our Student Managers are on duty from 8 am to 4 pm and are always available to help should a student contact them via their messenger for assistance.  These are just some of the fantastic features our program has to offer. Teacher Support:  We make a teacher’s life easier. Simple to use and learn, We immediately start saving time for teachers. For example, students automatically begin fixing missing skills from the automatic placement test. In other words, teachers see progress reports without even having to assign a lesson. Even better, the built-in motivation tools and rewards keep students eager to learn more without teacher intervention.  We are proud to announce our 2022 EdTech Breakthrough Awards:  Classroom Management Solution Provider Of The Year. Our program automatically allows you to monitor student progress in real-time; this makes it possible to know exactly how each student is progressing. Analyze data for all standards in the common core by student, class, school, and district.   Our program simplifies the IEP process by allowing you to set student goals that are automatically updated as students progress, saving you hundreds of hours of reporting. Parent Support:  Parents can log in anytime to view their child’s progress from the parent portal. Our students work on their proficiency level and at their own pace. This feature makes our program ideal for special needs students and exceptional students who need a challenge.  Student Support:  Our Student Managers are on duty from 8 am to 4 pm and are always available to help should a student contact them via their messenger for assistance.  These are just some of the fantastic features our program has to offer! Assessments & Exams: We prefer the continuous assessment approach; therefore, our students in grades K – 8 do not write exams. For our high school students, exams will depend on their chosen matric option. Registration Process: 1.  Complete our online form https://www.educ8sa.net/sign-up/. Your 14-day FREE trial period starts here! 2.  Login, then complete the Placement Test.      3.  Notify us once all Placement Tests have been completed.   4.  You will receive the results of the Placement Test by email. 5.  You will be requested to schedule a zoom meeting with us to discuss the Placement Test results.         6.  We set up your child’s personalized learning plan.       7.  Students may start with lessons.                            8.  We invoice you should you wish to sign up! Term Dates & Holidays: Centre Students will follow their own term dates. Virtual Students may decide when they take breaks.   Accreditation: All our courses are accredited and listed on the SAQA website, and accepted by our universities and Colleges.  Admission Requirements apply.  Our accreditation bodies:  WASC and the US Council on Education. Technical requirements: Internet connection, device with a minimum of 1.6 1.60GHz processor. (laptop/pc/tablet/iPad), headphones or earphones.

Evolve Online School

The Importance of Play in a Child’s Development

Children are increasingly suffering from low muscle tone, low memory, poor speech, poor vocabulary, poor motor planning, and lack of proprioception or spatial awareness. Mostly because many children spend hours in front of computers, IPads, or television instead of playing. Most people are unaware of is the impact playing has on a child’s development. A child’s motor skills develop from the outside in. When babies lie on the ground and kick and punch the air, their muscles are becoming stronger. According to a recent article by Pamela Li, MS, MBA (Importance of play in Early Childhood), “an infant’s brain is equipped with an abundance of brain cell connections (synapses). Synapse overproduction allows information captured from the early years to build a foundation for the brain.” A study showed that a child’s language skills improved when a mother interacted with her baby when they started playing with toys. She would tell the child what the toy was and what it did. When the child was tested 3 months later, they had better language skills. (Newland LA, Roggman LA, Boyce LK. The development of social toy play and language in infancy.) When adults talk to them, read to them, and play with them babies’ brains are stimulated. Children need to run, climb, push, pull, cycle and jump before they can draw. This helps with Gross motor development. Children need to have strong gross motor skills before they can do small motor tasks such as drawing, cutting, and writing. They also need to play with materials like play dough, blocks, bean bags, skipping rope, monkey bars, push bikes, water, sand, and foam, to name a few. Play develops: Brain growth. Improves intelligence.                                                                                   Sparks creative thinking. Improves communication, vocabulary, and Language. Promotes impulse control and emotion regulation. Grow social competence and empathy. Better physical and mental health. Teach life lessons. Strengthen relationships with caretakers and peers. Play, takes so many forms, physical play (dancing, ball games, movement activities), Social play (playing with other children or adults), Constructive play (drawing, music, crafts, and building), Fantasy play (imagination, dress-up, dramatization), Games with rules (board games, Simon says, musical chairs, dominoes, etc.) Courtesy – HSE LIVE – We’re here to help. We could write and talk about this topic forever as I feel very strongly about it. Even more so being an online teacher. I try to incorporate as many games and movement activities as I can in my lessons. This also helps with children’s concentration. According to https://publications.aap.org a pediatrics article – “Playing allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity and physical, cognitive and emotional strength. Play is important to healthy brain development. It is through play that children at a very early age engage and interact in the world around them.” So, Moms and Dads, Grandparents, Aunts and Uncles, the washing, and cleaning can wait for a while. Rather play with your precious little ones. They grow up too quickly.          Tracey Binge – A teacher at Evolve Online School

Educ8 SA

Online Education for Homeschoolers and Learning Centres

What does Educ8 SA offer? Educ8 SA’s Online Learning Program is the ideal choice for your homeschooling curriculum – offering teaching excellence and a broad curriculum at an affordable price. It offers an online education solution for homeschoolers and learning centres. Online Learning Programs Our Online Learning Program is the ideal choice for anyone looking for top-quality, proven, flexible online schooling. Affordable, Quality Curriculums The ideal choice for you, offering teaching excellence and a broad curriculum at an affordable price to students. Convenient and Flexible If you are looking for the convenience and flexibility of online homeschooling from the comfort of your home, you have found it! We provide quality online education that is affordable, flexible, and personalised for all students from Pre-School to Grade 12. Our Mission Improving Lives Through Learning We connect students and teachers to world-class curricula and resources, helping them reach their goals and pursue their dreams. Our Vision Expanding Learning Opportunities To make quality education more accessible and improve lives through learning. Our content is presented in an interactive, engaging, and effective way. We cater to different learning styles. What curriculum options does Educ8 SA have to offer? We have many different options such as… Preschool to Grade 8 @R400 per month (All resources, assessments, and tests included – no hidden costs) American High School Diploma Grade 9 – 12 @R1600 per month (Includes all resources, assessments, and exams) GED: R500 per month (Includes digital course, PDF Study Guide, 1 for each subject, lots of bonus material, Mock Exams) Individual Student Registration Fee:: Registration fee of R1000 per student or R1500 per Family Registration What sets Educ8 SA apart from other curriculum providers? Educ8 SA was established in 2017 due to a gap in the South African Education market for students and families with unique needs and circumstances seeking an innovative learning environment. We recently won the EdTech Awards 2022 for our online Mobymax program and to date we have received more than 215 awards in the past 4 years. Lots of evidence that we are doing something right. Educ8 SA has harnessed global technology and has partnered with the best providers in the eLearning industry to enable a revolution in quality education. Today, we have students enrolled all over the country as well as in other parts of the world. Students who desire more flexibility and choice can design a learning plan to suit their needs. Our program is one of those programs that you log onto, learning is simple and easy to navigate. Kids are able to log on and complete work at any time and work according to their pace. Making it easy to complete more than one grade level a year. You can sign up for our 14 day free trial period, this is amazing as your kids will do placement test which helps them place them in the correct grade level. Parent Support: Parents can log in anytime to view their child’s progress in the parent portal. Our students work on their proficiency level and at their own pace. This feature makes our program ideal for special needs students and exceptional students who need a challenge. Our solution allows you to monitor your child’s progress as they work through our accredited curriculum, in a safe controlled environment, your home. All you need is a laptop and Wi-Fi. Student Support: Our Student Managers are on duty from 8 am to 4 pm and are always available to help should a student contact them via their messenger for assistance. These are just some of the fantastic features our program has to offer! Assessments & Exams: We prefer the continuous assessment approach; therefore, our students in grades K – 8 do not write exams. For our high school students, exams will depend on their chosen matric option. Registration Process: 1. Complete our online form https://educ8-sa.com/sign-up/. Your 14-day FREE trial period starts here! Please make a calendar entry/reminder of the date that your student’s trial end and let us know whether to remove or permanently add the student to your roster and invoice. 2. Login, then complete the Placement Test. 3. Notify us once all Placement Tests have been completed. 4. You will receive the results of the Placement Test by email. 5. You will be requested to schedule a zoom meeting with us to discuss the Placement Test results. 6. We set up your child’s personalized learning plan. 7. Students may start with lessons. 8. We invoice you, should you wish to register the student as a permanent learner. We aim to produce citizens who are innovative, entrepreneurial, creative, and independent in their thinking. We are making sure that our students are future-ready for an ever-changing world. Up to 250 000 children are schooled at home in South Africa, with the numbers growing at 20% per year, home-schooling is now an important option! In today’s society, learning is mobile. Adapt your child’s education to suit their needs, as well as yours. Contact Educ8SA today! info@educ8sa.net 084 685 2138 www.educ8sa.com

Koa Academy

AI in Education IS happening – how do we leverage it?

Although machine learning and AI models have been built into many of the apps and platforms we have been using for years, we’re having a different kind of AI moment in 2023.  Natural language processing and computer vision models such as OpenAI’s ChatGTP and DALL_E have put AI tools directly into the people’s hands, and many are fascinated and fearful. With generative AI tools used frequently by growing millions, some are calling loudly for restraint and regulation.  AI is already impacting education.  From schools to universities, parents, teachers and administrators are scrambling for remedies, rules and policies to prevent students from handing in homework written by ChatGPT.  However, the longer-term impacts of AI on education are going to be much deeper and wider. As Principal of Koa Academy, a high engagement online school, Mark Anderson takes a pragmatic and proactive view of AI’s opportunities and challenges to the education system.  He says, “I must say, I feel excited.  However, my eyes are wide open.  This is a complex and nuanced conversation. We have an education system that is held back by outdated worldviews and structures.  Too many institutions are failing to adequately prepare learners for today’s world of work, so systems and tools that disrupt the status quo and improve 21st Century learning are certainly needed.  That said, there are real concerns that must be addressed if we are to effectively leverage the benefits in this game-changing shift.  When used well, AI tools can sharpen critical thinking skills and encourage creativity.  When used poorly, they can become a burden and even block learning.  This is the same pattern we see with just about any technological advance in education.  The key lies in our pedagogy – how we go about deploying the tools in our schools.” Will natural language processing models undermine core skills, like writing? As many users have discovered, AI tools like ChatGPT are adept at generating written text in a range of styles and on any topic, all in a matter of seconds.  Mark says, “It’s an obvious pitfall that students can plagiarise any writing task, but does this mean that learners will fail to develop the ability to effectively generate their own thoughts in writing? This depends on how the AI tools are used in the language class.  Instead of being used as the source of a written text based on one prompt, the AI model can be used as a personal ‘writing coach’ by engaging the learner conversationally, debating or analysing text.  Used strategically, a tool like this has the potential to do what many language teachers would love to have the capacity for – individualised and personalised support of every single learner.” This role of a chatbot as tutor goes beyond language.  There are worldwide Maths education specialists, such as Khan Academy currently testing AI Maths tutors in US schools with the view that one day, every child in the classroom might benefit from the undivided attention of their own Maths specialist. Mark says, “This idea of AI becoming a sort of ‘personal tutor’ is a potential game changer. Educators know well that the way to holistically increase the performance of all learners in an educational system is through one-on-one tutoring support for everyone. This has always seemed logistically impossible. With the introduction of AI, much of the support typically provided by a person can instead be provided by the AI model. Not thinking for the learner but providing the support for them to really think for themselves.” As Peter Parker’s uncle said: “With great power comes great responsibility” Like particle accelerators, genetic sequencers and supercomputers, AI is undoubtably one of the most complex tools humans have ever created.  It is set apart though, by its capacity to learn and improve over time. Mark concludes, “At Koa Academy we are encouraging our learners, parents and educators to explore and become clear about the pros and cons of present-day AI.  As with any tool, we have to teach our learners how to approach the technology. We have human choices to make about how we realise its potential and guardrail against its pitfalls.  What’s important is to avoid taking a polarised stance and rather finding the balance between recognising the potential pitfalls and potential advantages of AI in education. AI gives us a chance to drive change in a very outdated education system and potentially solve a lot of problems. Yes, it’s going to be challenging to find healthy balances and good guardrails, and yes, there are going to be teething issues along the way. But there are such good opportunities for us to leverage AI in education. Not doing so means that our kids leave school even less prepared for real life. While there is still much to discover and navigate in this technology, we can be sure that by approaching it with all the faculties that make us truly human – critical thinking, common sense, empathy – then we stand to gain much from it in education.” Parents can join Mark Anderson at the Koa Academy Webinar, AI – the Good, the Bad and the Educational on 8 August 2023, at 13h00.  The presentation tackles this exciting and complex topic and includes a Q&A session, so that parents can ask their burning questions.  Registration is free. Koa Academy Webinar: AI – the Good, the Bad and the Educational Tuesday, 8 August 2023 13h00 Register here Discover Koa Academy, visit www.koacademy.com

Koa Academy

Why ‘soft skills’ are today’s key skills

With the world facing an uncertain future of work, there’s a question on many parents’ minds: “Is my child actually learning the skills they need for the 21st Century?”  AI models are increasingly taking over a wide range of routine tasks and vast resources of facts and know-how are now available to us in a matter of seconds.  This means that workplaces are shifting focus from looking for people with hard skills to those with ‘human’ skills. Traditionally called ‘soft skills’ because during the industrial era they were considered nothing more than ‘nice to have’, these are now the key skills of our time.  Principal of Koa Academy, Mark Anderson says, “The trouble is that our schools are still dominated by the teaching and learning of hard skills.  While there’s widespread recognition of how important soft or key skills are, there are few intentional efforts to ensure kids build and develop them during their schooling years.” So, what’s the difference between hard and key skills? Anderson says, “Hard skills are gained by learning a series of procedures, operations, or steps, as well as rules and information that enables you to solve a specific problem.  An example would be learning how to do long division.  You learn the steps and the conventions, and then you can divide one number into another.  The thing about hard skills is that they are not transferrable from one problem to the next. Hard skills can only solve the problem they were designed to solve. For instance, you can learn the series of actions and the tools you will need to change a car tyre, and this skill will help you when you have a flat wheel.  But you can’t use it to solve anything else.” Key skills, which are also referred to as human skills and soft skills, are capabilities that are developed through reflection and feedback, experiences and practice.  They include communication and leadership skills, collaboration and teamwork, creative and critical thinking, empathy and cultural competency.  It’s naturally more complex to both develop and assess key skills.  Anderson says, “These are powerful and dynamic skills, and the beauty of them is that unlike hard skills they are transferrable and can be applied in successfully solving a wide range of problems.  This is why hiring managers are prioritising key skills in today’s workplaces.” How can developing key skills help your child? According to the USA’s National Soft Skills Association, research from Harvard University, the Carnegie Foundation and Stanford Research all concluded that soft skills contribute a whopping 85% to career success. In other words, your child’s level of skills is hardly just ‘nice to have’; it’s a fundamental success factor in life.  In a 2019 LinkedIn Talent Trends survey, 91% of employers ranked soft skills as their top requirement in the recruitment process. Anderson says, “The challenge for schools is that key skills aren’t required by curriculum, and can’t necessarily be taught in a traditional classroom learning environment, and they can’t be assessed by a traditional test.  Schools need new ways to build opportunities for kids to develop key skills – this comes through modelling, practising, feedback and reflection. For Koa, this is a priority of our online school experience.  Our high-engagement environment, with 8 kids in a Pod working with a dedicated teacher, enables critical thinking and reflection every step of the way.  Communication skills are developed through showcases and presentations, as well as ongoing conversations and interactions with peers, educators and the real-world experts we bring in to engage with our learners.  Kids get experience in collaborating and working in teams within their Pods, and by developing their innovative projects for our annual science, business and creative expos.  Self-mastery and time management are developed through being accountable to meeting your learning targets and participating in weekly scheduled events such as Masterclasses and Pod Connects.  While progress in developing key skills may not feature on school reports, we do regular parent-child-teacher reviews, where the learner guides the meeting, reporting on their reflections about their schoolwork and learning and social experiences.” What’s important is that schools are cognisant of the importance of key skills, and also intentional about giving children opportunities to develop them in the learning environment, rather than it be left to happenstance.  Key skills can be integrated in the curriculum, and activities and assignments can be designed so that learners get to practice capabilities such as leadership, teamwork and communication. Schools can make use of the latest technology platforms, apps and interactive tools that teach communication, collaboration and problem-solving skills.  They can also model key skills by creating and maintaining a positive school culture where respect and empathy are highly valued.  This is what will set our agile and adaptable children on a path to career success, whatever the vagaries of the future work. Discover Koa Academy, visit Koaacademy.com

Koa Academy

Better school assessments for today’s world

The recent explosion of AI into our daily life is testimony to how fast our world can change, and how thoroughly it can be disrupted.  AI has already profoundly changed how schools need to think about assessments.  Within two months of becoming available to any internet user, AI language model ChatGPT attracted 100 million users.  In 2023, it is estimated that 14 million users interact with ChatGPT daily.  This chatbot can do your desktop research for you in seconds, as well as generate a wide variety of content including school book reports and Grade 12 essays in real-time.  ChatGPT can explain Maths concepts and will very competently solve a mathematical word problem for you. While the veracity of chatbots such as ChatGPT is up for debate, the millions of users who have signed up so far are in the process of training it to become more accurate and more reliable.  In other words, it is surely going to get better at what it does.  Across the world, universities and schools are grappling with how this is going disrupt their traditional assessment methods which rely heavily on students generating a variety of texts to demonstrate they understand topics that have been taught. However, not all educators are wringing their hands in despair.  According to Mark Anderson, Principal of Koa Academy, a uniquely high-engagement online school, this major, looming disruption is a good thing.  “Traditional assessment at school and university is woefully outdated, and is no longer meaningful in our modern world,” he says. “These assessments have been designed to be relevant to the teaching of hard skills at a time when you needed to learn and memorise a series of facts or functions in order to do your job.  They are designed to test memorisation and repetition, and yet the world of work is demanding something very different.  Today, there’s much stronger focus on what used to be known as ‘soft skills’; we call them key skills – critical thinking and problem-solving, creativity and innovation, communication, and empathy.  Traditional school models are using an industrial-era assessment approach to try prepare children for the world of work in the information age.  In other words, traditional assessments are designed for a world that does not exist anymore. This is a fundamental and ineffective mismatch that creates stress for learners and students and fails to empower educators with accurate and meaningful measures of their students’ progress.  In essence, we don’t need to change the approach to assessment because of the rise of chatbots, we need to change it because it hasn’t been working optimally for quite some time now.” Kids are trapped in high-pressure test cycles Many parents have concerns when it comes to the frequency of school tests and exams.  It seems that kids are constantly cramming for this test or that exam.  Mark says, “There is a lot of content in the curriculum.  If the school relies on summative assessment – which means you teach the content and test learners’ knowledge at the end, then they are constantly cramming facts into their heads, memorising it so that they can regurgitate it in tests.  This means that there’s a lot of assessments packed into the school year, and kids are experiencing sustained stress, which can turn into test anxiety.” There are, of course, other ways to do assessment.  In South Africa, the IEB (Independent Examinations Board) is addressing the problem by moving away from lower order thinking assessments that focus on memorisation and repetition.  Koa Academy is an IEB-accredited school.  Mark explains, “What the IEB has said is that we want to assess for understanding and application.  So, we are going to teach learners how to think critically and how to problem solve and give them tools to solve any problem they may come across rather than learn by rote.  This means that when a child is faced with a question in the exam that they are unsure of, they feel less stress about this because they have tools to solve their problem in a creative way.  They can leverage their key skills to find a workable solution.  So you are looking at assessments that are designed to test more complex skills such critical thinking, problem solving and creativity.”  Are assessments age-appropriate? In South Africa, the standardized Matric exams loom over every child’s school journey and can shape a school’s assessment approach even in the early Grades.  Mark says, “What Koa is doing is looking at assessment from Grade 4 to Grade 12 and asking what’s appropriate?  The way that we are assessing a Grade 4, a nine-year-old child, should not be the way we are assessing a Grade 12 learner, an 18 year old.  We should be assessing them differently because they are at different stages of their cognitive and psycho-emotional development.  Schools must not create significant stress for young children.  This doesn’t mean that we don’t need formal assessments for earlier grades – we do, but it needs to look different and feel different.  It needs to be age appropriate.  We need to have assessments that do not provoke anxiety but also gives us an accurate measure of the learners’ progress.  So, one of the things we are doing is ongoing assessment.  Assessment doesn’t come at the end, it is built into the learning experience.  As they make their way through the lessons, they are getting constant feedback about their learning.  This is called mastery-based learning.  They learn a little, try out their learning, get a result and then loop back to try again.  We are then able to pull marks throughout their mastery-based journey to gauge how they are doing in each subject.  In the younger grades, we don’t have a routine test structure where you write your Science test on Thursday whether you are ready or not.  The majority of our assessments are asynchronous.  So when a child gets to the end of a section, the assessment becomes available to them and they complete the assessment when they

Educ8 SA

Your Ideal Choice For Your Homeschool Curriculum – Educ8 SA!

What does Educ8 SA have to offer? Educ8 SA is an online curriculum provider offering teaching excellence and a broad curriculum at an affordable price. Quality online education that is affordable, flexible, and personalized for all students from Pre-School to Grade 12. Educ8 SA was established in 2017 due to a gap in the South African Education market for students and families with unique needs and circumstances seeking an innovative learning environment. Today, we have students enrolled all over the country as well as in other parts of the world. Students who desire more flexibility and choice can design a learning plan to suit their needs. Learning about the History of Educ8 SA. Haelene has more than 22 years of teaching experience and homeschooled her own four children. Being a veteran homeschooling mom truly helped her understand the ins and outs of homeschooling and each student’s unique needs. She had years of experience and knowledge to offer to all newbies and to those who have been homeschooling for a while. What were the biggest accomplishments? The testimonies of graduated students absolutely speak for themselves. We are known for the super service and support we provide to our parents and students! This is so important as it establishes trust; without trust, we won’t have clients. What’s one of the hardest things that Haelene faced with being a business owner? The energy, blood, sweat, and tears that go into each day – like with any business, nothing comes easy, but it is so worth the time and effort! What curriculum options does Educ8 SA have to offer? We have many different options: Grade K – Gr. 8: R400 American High School Diploma (Gr. 9 – 12): R1600 (All resources, assessments, and tests included – no hidden costs) GED: R500/student package/month GED Exam FEE: $80/subject – 4 Subjects Individual Student Registration Fee:: R1000 per student or R1500 per Family Where can your business be found online? Website: https://www.educ8sa.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/educ8sa/ Contact Educ8 SA today! Hannes / Haelene info@educ8sa.net www.educ8sa.com 084 685 2138

Evolve Online School

Support for Online Learning

We can all relate to feeling nervous or anxious, child or adult. Social settings, whether in the virtual space or a physical “meet-up”, seem to be a significant cause of this! In today’s uncertainty, children are the ones that are experiencing social anxiety at its core. Moving back and forth between the virtual and physical space has undoubtedly influenced our children’s socialising ability. Children have shifted from everyday social experiences such as meeting at school to a virtual experience where social connections are harder to make and may require intervention from a parent or teacher who can feel uncomfortable. Feeling disconnected or isolated can happen in both a physical and online environment as revolutionary as online learning or online home-schooling, those involved need to be aware of the importance of social connections. Being in the comfort of our home allows learning to happen in a truly comfortable environment. Due to this, children can experience higher levels of virtual social anxiety when needing to connect with their peers outside of the learning environment. As a parent, it is essential to combat these developments or move and work towards remedying them once they have been identified. The following behaviours can be signs of social anxiety and should be monitored: They lack the desire to connect and communicate outside their immediate family circle. Showing significant discomfort when communicating with others on a personal level, beyond learning and teaching content. Showing an increasing lack of desire to interact with children of their age in a “real-life” setting. Hiding away. Not wanting to talk or play. However, providing opportunities and creating expectations can be a healthy way to overcome or combat the development of social anxiety. Some coping strategies for online learning and creating a space that fosters social interaction may be: Getting out of their “comfort space” to go for walks. Going to a library where there are opportunities to talk to and see other people. Participating in non-academic activities and even something as simple as getting involved in community projects. More particularly, creating opportunities for them to connect with children with the same or similar interests is an effective way not to force social interaction but rather encourage it, as this will be the best footing when overcoming the discomfort of social anxiety. Written by Cherie Pieterse – Evolve Online School Activator

Brainline

10 benefits of online schooling

Did you know that more than 92 million students and learners worldwide receive tuition via a virtual classroom? Similar to attending a physical school and learning in person, there are advantages and disadvantages to learning online.  Staying focussed and being self-motivated can be challenging on its own; which is part of the reason why online schooling may not be for everyone. By understanding more about the advantages of online schooling, you can get a better idea of whether it might be suitable for your child and their educational and career goals. But let us first look at what is meant by online schooling:  Online schooling is where a student accesses their academic curriculum on an online platform via the internet. Online schools offer a similar curriculum to traditional schools, but teaching methods are adapted to online or computer-based media, incorporating both traditional and distance education methods, essentially bridging the gap between traditional schooling and homeschooling. What are the benefits of online schooling? Creates life-long learners Online schooling requires that students take responsibility for their own learning. Because they do not rely on teachers to learn everything they must know, online learning tends to create students who are life-long learners. Such learners often take this curiosity and ownership of their educational outcomes, and apply it to their career, ensuring that they stay relevant in their chosen field. Globally accessible One of the best things about online schooling is that your child has access to their school from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. Moving your family for work purposes will have no impact on your child’s schooling, and waiting for the school break to go on holiday is a thing of the past.  Saves money Online schooling can also allow you to save money. Transportation is becoming increasingly expensive, and online schooling eliminates the cost of petrol and vehicle maintenance, not to mention time spent on the road! With traditional schools, there is also the cost of school uniforms, sports uniforms, after-school supervision, fees related to mandatory activities and other sundry donations and sponsorships. 4Provides flexibility This is one of online schooling’s biggest draws. Because students can access the lectures when it suits them best and determine their own learning hours, they also have the time and opportunity to pursue their passions and interests. High-level sports achievers of school-going age, with the demands of practice and competitions, are often attracted to online schooling for this very reason.  Offers unlimited access to lectures Additionally, online classes offer unlimited access to class recordings and other course materials. This means that if something doesn’t make sense right away, students can come back later with fresh eyes to revisit the lectures and other supporting materials. Students Learn at Their Own Pace Experts say that kids should begin to sit, crawl, walk, and talk at a pace they are comfortable with because every child is different. The same principle applies to older children, yet students in traditional schools are often expected to learn lessons and complete their classwork at the same rate as their peers, regardless of whether they could go through the materials quicker or might need more time. Since online schools include a mixture of self-paced work with scheduled lessons, activities, and deadlines, online students can enjoy a more individualized education that fits their unique needs while still complying with the mandates of the individual school and state. Introverted students can join in discussions While introverts can still do well in traditional schools, they often find the quieter settings of an online school to be more conducive to learning. And since much of the classroom and teacher interaction takes place online, offering the opportunity for text-based interactions even during class time, quieter students are on an equal footing with their extroverted classmates and can more easily join in the discussion. Students have fewer distractions and obstacles to learning As class size continues to increase at traditional schools, so do the distractions for students. Teachers must take time to address behavioural issues, and students’ attention may be taken up with friends and social pressures rather than academics. Bullying can also affect a student’s ability to learn in traditional brick-and-mortar schools. Online learning allows students to concentrate on their studies during classes and then socialize with their friends outside of the learning environment. Online teachers can also focus all their attention on teaching and supporting their students rather than addressing disruptive behaviour. Students enjoy a comfortable learning environment Student comfort has only recently surfaced as an area of concern in education. For years, it has been the acceptable practice for students to sit on rigid chairs in a sterile school building during the day. Now, however, educators and architects like Prakash Nair and Randall Fielding are addressing the need for a more suitable learning environment. A considerable body of research about environmental design shows the positive effect comfort can have on learning, human productivity, and creativity,” according to an article by Nair and Fielding published in edutopia.org.    Parents are more involved in their children’s education The online school environment inherently requires greater parental involvement. Studies show that students do better in school when their parents are involved in their education. According to a report authored by Anne Henderson and Nancy Berla, “Major findings indicate that the family makes critical contributions to student achievement from the earliest childhood years through high school, and efforts to improve children’s outcomes are much more effective when the family is actively involved.” Brainline has been providing technology-driven education to Grade R – 12 learners for the past 35 years and our families are proud to share their experiences with us. ‘Brainline has given us the ability to ensure that our child is receiving the thorough academic education she deserves. The curriculum is extensive and absolutely user-friendly. I love Brainline and so does my daughter,’ says Tenille Pollard. ‘We moved to China and decided to use Brainline. I am currently doing Brainline homeschooling and attending an international foreign

Koa Academy

7 WAYS TO SUPPORT YOUR CHILD AT ONLINE SCHOOL

Every year, more and more South African children are enrolled in an online school, bringing changes to their family’s rhythms and routines.  It’s important for parents to set their child up for success, and here are 7 top tips from Koa Academy’s Principal and Co-founder, Mark Anderson: Quality tech – “It’s important to equip your child with the best tools possible.  While it might be tempting to opt for the entry-level laptops marketed for students, the reality is that your child needs a reliable workhorse when it comes to their computer.  Koa’s students learn across multiple best-in-class educational platforms, and they need to navigate seamlessly and speedily so that teaching and learning flows.  Good quality audio and camera are essential so that they can engage fully with their Pod teacher and peers.  Given that load-shedding is here to stay for the foreseeable future, parents should also invest in at least a basic backup power option that keeps them online during the most critical school hours.” Conducive learning environment – “Children need a quiet, designated space in the house where they can comfortably spend their school day, free from distractions.  Optimally, they should have their own desk and chair workstation, as well as tidy, storage space for their schoolbooks and materials. As far as possible, avoid using their bedroom with a closed door, or the dining room table.” Think critically about screentime – “Not all screentime is created equally. A well designed online educational programme which is age appropriate will be engaging and constructive for your child. But they still need healthy boundaries when it comes to other forms of screentime, such as social media and gaming. Parents should investigate ways of keeping healthy boundaries in place to manage screentime outside of their child’s online schooling.”   Keep track of your child’s progress – “Parents play a role in ensuring accountability when it comes to online schooling, just as they do in physical schooling. Koa’s Pod teachers keep daily track of your child’s targets and progress on a live Dashboard because it’s important for parents to also know what their child is busy with, what their priorities are and how they are advancing with the curriculum.  A good online school makes sure that this information is always available to you so that you can support their ongoing development. Make use of the increased access to this sort of information!” Connect with your child’s teachers and school leaders – “Just as you would get to know your child’s teachers in a traditional school, be open to forging constructive relationships with your child’s online teachers.  The lines of communication between parents and teachers should always be clear and open.” Integrate your school and family year planners – “Online schooling should offer families far more flexibility when it comes to determining school hours and days.  That said, there will still be important schoolwork deadlines and Koa has special dates for key assessments, parent-teacher meetings, as well as educational outings and socials that you won’t want your child to miss.” Organising your child’s participation in sports and culture – “Even if your child is attending a high-engagement online school such as Koa where they have daily interaction in their small pods, it’s important to involve your child in other activities that give them the opportunity to socialise and engage in person.  This gives you the opportunity to maximise the extra time and resources you get by attending an online school and meet other families with children who have similar interests while they broaden their horizons through sports and cultural experiences.” Discover Koa Academy here

Educ8 SA

Improving Lives Through Learning

How to Sign Up to our amazing Online Learning Platform. We are super proud to announce that the EdTech Awards 2022 have just been released – and yay! We are the BEST AGAIN! We are the most awarded EdTech Company on the planet, with 215+ awards in the last four years! A decade of evidence and research, buffered by over 215 education awards (10 times the closest competitor), establishes us as the premier Edtech solution available to schools and families. We specialize in SpecialEd and offer remedial support to our students with learning difficulties or disabilities. We have the awards to prove our success. Our program is also an excellent choice if you’d like to challenge your academically strong child, as they get to work ahead and complete more than one grade level per year. Please find attached our Informational Pack to assist you with any further questions you might have.  And…Don’t forget about our FREE 14-day Trial Period on our program. The Placement Test is included in the trial. All we need is for you to complete our online registration form: https://educ8-sa.com/sign-up Listed below are some of the great features we have to offer you: The following components are included in our package: Digital Literacy, Core Subjects, and Career Studies.   Our Fees:  Our Fees include all tutorials, assessments, and intervention packs. Individual Student Registration Fee:: Registration fee of R1000 per student or R1500 per Family Registration (Payable over 2/3 instalments) Grade K – Gr. 8: R400/student package/month (All resources, assessments, and tests included – no hidden costs) GED: R500/student package/month (Includes digital course, PDF Study Guide, 1 for each subject, lots of bonus material, Mock Exams) GED Exam FEE: $80/subject – 4 Subjects American High School Diploma (Gr. 9 – 12): R1600/student per month. (Includes all resources, assessments, and exams) Our program is offered in English. We offer a complete curriculum solution; students may log in 24/7/365.  Students start with a list of 5 Placement Tests; this will help us determine exactly where they need to start. With the results, we will also be able to identify if they have learning gaps and then set up a personalized learning plan for each student. Parent Support:  Parents can log in anytime to view their child’s progress from the parent portal. Our students work on their proficiency level and at their own pace. This feature makes our program ideal for special needs students and exceptional students who need a challenge.  Student Support:  Our Student Managers are on duty from 8 am to 4 pm and are always available to help should a student contact them via their messenger for assistance.  These are just some of the fantastic features our program has to offer! Assessments & Exams: We prefer the continuous assessment approach; therefore, our students in grades K – 8 do not write exams. For our high school students, exams will depend on the matric option they have chosen.  Registration Process: Complete our online form https://educ8-sa.com/sign-up. Your 14-day FREE trial period starts here! Login, then complete the Placement Test. Notify us once all Placement Tests have been completed. You will receive the results of the Placement Test by email. You will be requested to schedule a zoom meeting with us to discuss the Placement Test results. We set up your child’s personalized learning plan. Students may start with lessons. We invoice you should you wish to sign up! Subjects offered:  See the Informational Pack for each of the learning paths. Digital Literacy and Career Studies are part of the package.                All learning resources/tutorials/assessments/tests are completed online. Our fees include all tutorials, assessments, and intervention packs. Terms Dates & Holidays:  Centre Students will follow their own term dates. Virtual Students may decide when they take breaks.   Accreditation:  All our courses are accredited and accepted internationally and in SA. The GED is accredited by the US Council on Education, listed on the SAQA website, and accepted by our universities and Colleges. The American High School Diploma is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and accepted by our SA uni’s, also listed on the USAf website. Technical requirements:  Internet connection, device with a minimum of 1.6 1.60GHz processor. (laptop/pc/tablet/iPad), headphones or earphones. Registration with the Department of Education: Please be reminded that it is the responsibility of the parent to register their child/children as home schoolers with the DoE.  This only applies to students who are still of compulsory school-going age (7 – 15).  See the webpage of Pestalozzi Trust for more info on this:  https://pestalozzi.org/en/4-steps-to-start-homeschooling/ I hope this has been helpful. Please feel free to contact me should you need any further assistance. Feel free to use our WhatsApp number @ 084 685 2138 (Haelene) for a speedy response should you have any other questions. Contact the Educ8 SA Team today! info@educ8sa.net www.educ8sa.com 084 685 2138

Brainline

5 tips on choosing the right online school

Ensuring that your child receives the best academic education is foremost on the minds of parents and families. It is, therefore, extremely important that once you decide to go the online school route, that you consider these factors when choosing a specific school: Experience: Look for an online school that has a well-known brand, years of experience when it comes to online learning platforms and curriculums as well as a proven track record for methods of online instruction and assessment.  Accreditation: Is the online school registered with an examining body, like the Independent Examinations Board, which is accredited by Umalusi to offer the National Senior Certificate (NSC)? Such accreditation ensures that the education your child receives complies with the requirements of both the school’s examining body and the Department of Education. Then you can trust that your child’s reports or NSC is valid and will be accepted at other schools and universities, both local and abroad. Online classes and resources: Does the online school offer online classes? Are these live or merely recorded? And are the presented by qualified teachers? These are important considerations, if you require online classes as part of your academic support. Besides this, see if the online school also provides other resources such as supporting learning material, a library, and a database or platform to access additional information. Learning Environment: A well-designed learning environment can make the difference between an enjoyable and frustrating online school. Top schools have online classrooms that are easy to use and navigate, even if you’re not a computer expert. Their classroom technologies allow you to interact with your classmates and teacher intuitively, and provide a personal feel to the online environment. Also, check to see if the technical requirements match what you have at home. Top online schools offer a learning environment that can be accessed with the most common hardware and software technologies. Programme Diversity: Online schools often have a variety of programmes and subjects. Choose a programme that best suits your needs in terms of flexibility and academic support. Also, ensure that the online school you choose has a diversity of subjects that will suit your child’s future endeavours and career choices. At Brainline, we have been providing quality driven education for Grade R – 12 for more than 35 years. Brainline CEO, Coleen Cronje, says they are proud to be the first online education provider recognised by the Independent Examinations Board.  ‘Brainline’s registration with the IEB assures you of quality assessment in accordance with national policy. This means that you can trust Brainline to provide you with valid qualifications, which are accepted at other schools and national and international universities.’ For more information and a full breakdown of Brainline’s products, click here: https://brainline.com/products/ 

Koa Academy

Strong future for online schooling in South Africa

As a fellow school principal, I feel that it is important to join the ongoing conversation about the state of online schooling in South Africa.  Recently, there’s been a series of investigative articles about one school in particular, but there has also been widespread coverage about a principals’ report which issued a stark, sweeping warning that home/online schooling sets children back in their educational milestones. In a country where education is highly prized, this is an important topic, and it deserves further exploration from multiple perspectives.  Globally, the landscape of education has significantly changed with the opening up of the limitless digital realm.  Online study has become a phenomenal force with many millions of people across the world engaged in school, tertiary, on-the-job and lifelong learning in a multitude of digital spaces.  Online education is undeniably a powerful tool for us moving towards the democratisation of education. It offers unparalleled access to a wider range of learning experiences and provides another option for South African educational leaders in our mandate to educate our young people effectively. So how should we evaluate the academic outcomes of several specific online schools this year which have been, to put it frankly, disastrous? What does this mean for online schooling as a whole? The immense growth of online learning was already in play long before the COVID-19 pandemic.  Extended lockdowns did play a role in accelerating the uptake of online schooling, and new online schools have emerged in South Africa to meet that demand.  Just like traditional schools, online schools are not all the same.  Core values, academic rigour, educational philosophy, the delivery of education and the provision of a healthy school environment varies across schools in general.   It is not credible to state that South African children attending online schools or those doing home schooling will academically fall behind their peers at traditional schools.  We all know well that there is no one standard of education quality across South Africa’s range of traditional schools, and the same is true for the country’s online schools.   There is no doubt that amongst online schools, there are those that do not have sustainable models and don’t take responsibility for delivering quality education.  There are those that have dragged  the traditional school model onto a digital platform and called that an online school.  There are also those who have prioritised business growth over educational philosophy and academic standards, and these online schools are now struggling.  But this is far from characteristic of all South African online schools.  In fact, this can be viewed as analogous to the  failings of some traditional schools when it comes to academic standards, school leadership, teacher to student ratios and the provision of safe environments conducive to learning. Just as South Africa does have fantastic examples of traditional schools delivering quality education, there too are online schools which are getting it right according to online pedagogy and best practice models.  At Koa Academy, we monitor and evaluate our students from when they start at Koa, and throughout their school year. We engage in benchmarking assessments as part of our accreditation with the IEB (Independent Examinations Board).    We have had students that started at Koa with learning deficits due to pandemic disruptions who have caught up and moved forward at their proper Grade-level. In fact, learners in the Senior Phase who have been at Koa for more than a year are achieving significantly higher Maths scores on average than learners who have only recently joined us from other schools. This year, Koa Academy has notched up a 97% progression rate, and we’ve seen a 13% increase in Maths marks over 2021. Accountability is the key. Our students are organised into 8-person Pods with their dedicated Pod Teacher.  There is daily contact time in small groups, enabling us to maintain rigorous standards. At Koa, everyone is seen and everyone is heard. I hear horror stories about learners at some online schools being in virtual classes of 40, 80 even 350 learners! Parents need to keep this front and centre when considering their online schooling options. At Koa, we believe that effective online engagement happens best in even smaller groups than in person. That’s why we capped our Pods at 8. While the students still have broader community moments such as school Assemblies and Clubs, they are consistently kept accountable in those small Pod sessions every single day. We knew from the start that our Pods of 8 would actually slow our growth rate, but we have made it a non-negotiable for Koa because of how highly we value accountability in education.    Not every child will thrive in a good online school, just like it’s not the case that every child thrives in a good traditional school.  The presence of online schools in South Africa gives parents more choice when it comes to finding the best educational solution for their unique child.  It’s important for parents to think about what kind of education they want for their children in our fast-changing world.  They need to understand the values, the educational philosophy and assessment strategy of the school, and make sure that the school they choose matches their family values and aspirations for their child’s education.  A school should be able to articulate to parents the reasons why their academic programme is robust. Over the coming years, we will see the continued growth in online learning in South Africa, and the world.  Current online schools with deficient models and without academic rigour and accountability will not survive, while strong and sustainable online schools will thrive.  The country’s educational landscape will change, offering families greater choice and evermore individualised learning options. We hope that this will also include significant shifts in educational legislation and effective regulation of the online schooling space.  Within this landscape,  it’s imperative for physical and online educational institutions to work side by side to increase access to quality education for young South Africans.

Koa Academy

Thinking about enrolling your child in online school?

They are not all the same.  These are the must-ask questions for the school leader, which we put to Koa Academy’s Principal Mark Anderson: 1.            What is the child to teacher ratio? Mark: Koa has small Pods with a maximum of 8 children to one teacher. We believe that this is essential in the online space to maintain high engagement. Unfortunately, many online schools are packing more kids than ever into virtual classrooms, which leads to everyone feeling disconnected. Our Pods make sure that we stay engaged! 2.            How easily can I contact the teacher/principal if I have concerns? Mark: Our teachers and school leaders are readily and directly available to you online through phone, video chat and email channels. 3.            Is the school accredited? Mark: Yes!  Koa is accredited with the IEB and staffed only by teachers who are SACE registered.   The IEB offers a range of top benefits to our learners and we can tell you all about that. 4.            Does the school offer latest online education resources and platforms, or is it simply traditional school dumped online and presented on-screen? Mark: We say ‘no’ to school-on-a-screen! Koa leverages platforms and courses which are designed to be online from the start, which makes for an engaging and individualised learning experience that is relevant for today.  5.            Is the school intentional about socialization online and in person? Mark: Online school can and should be a safe, connected place of socio emotional as well as academic learning.  Koa actively fosters an on- and off-line school community in a variety of ways.  Online, learners interact every day in their Pod and regularly meet in whole-school gatherings. We also do regular in-person events in all the major centres. 6.            What do the school fees include? Mark: When comparing school fees, make sure there are no hidden but compulsory costs.  Many online schools advertise a set fee but then add on unavoidable costs for textbooks, online platforms or tutors.  At Koa, we keep it simple with a fully inclusive fee.

Educ8 SA

Online Education for Homeschoolers and Cottage schools

Educ8 SA+ is a brand new premium package of Educ8 SA. We offer international & accredited curriculums with the added benefit of completely virtual supervision and assistance, guidance for choosing curriculum and career paths, and biweekly reporting with daily attendance tracking. Our excellent daily attendance and academic time tracker functions to hold students accountable and keep them on track. Our bi-weekly report gives you a comprehensive and overall insight to your student’s progress and learning trajectory. We also offer language courses and a wide array of career/skill building courses. Virtual meetings on any matter or topic relating to our students’ progress and academics are readily available to all parents and students. What we believe We here at Educ8 SA+ believe in offering a consistent, tried and tested solution to parents who are concerned about not giving enough oversight and/or are too busy to give their homeschooled students the time and attention necessary to reach their full potential. What we aim for The homeschool/self-school journey, as wonderful as it is, is often overwhelming, leading parents and students to be stressed out and far from as focused, efficient, and productive as they can be. Instead of the often seen scenario where students have a great curriculum, but with no structure, they end up never reaching or achieving their full potential. We avoid that by providing structure, oversight, discipline, and a set calendar and schedule. School holidays and public holidays are stipulated on our Educ8 SA+ school calendar. Additional pros when choosing Educ8 SA+ We offer you, through our curriculum providers, the SAT prep course and micro courses. These courses are part of our scheduled learning paths to widen our student’s knowledge and to grow and develop their interests. There are many courses that students can complete and will pay for at the end once they have committed to obtaining the accreditation, wanting the credits and certificate that these courses offer. Should you want to complete any of these courses (terms and conditions apply) for self enrichment only, there are many courses that you have no obligation to pay for if you do not want the credits and certificate.  Every Friday, we give our students a break from scheduled school work. Don’t get too excited, this is not an OFF day. Educ8 SA+ uses Fridays as an opportunity to encourage and reward students for self improvement. Fridays are when students get the time to do courses and learn new skills that will help them open doors in their bright futures.  Zoom meetings or phone calls are available to our students should they need guidance on matters such as proper note taking, motivation, self-discipline, time management, etc. We firmly believe in not only corrective supervision, but adding to our students “toolbox” of life skills. This is done through interaction with our students via motivational conversations, virtual meetings, and 2 webinars every month on topics of self-improvement & self enrichment. Let’s talk fees  GR K – 8 (age 14 and under): R700 p/m  GR 9 -12 & GED: R800 p/m  Let us know if this piques your interest!  For more queries and information feel free to email us at premium@educ8sa.net.  Warmest of regards, Educ8 SA+ Team 

Koa Academy

HELPING YOUR CHILD WITH TEST ANXIETY

As learners across the country prepare for and write their last Grade assessments of the year, there are a lot of parents who are dealing with children overwhelmed with high levels of anxiety.  Test anxiety is a real thing, and because the traditional South African assessment approach is to have learners write lots of tests, this can cause sustained negative impacts on some children during their school years. According to Naledi Mokoena, an educational psychologist in private practise and educator at SACAP (South African College of Applied Psychology) parents need to be on alert for signs that their child is experiencing test anxiety and take action to help remedy the situation.  She says, “Test anxiety is experienced as a significant physiological stress response when a child is faced with an upcoming assessment. This response is experienced internally. It is first important to differentiate between stress and anxiety. Stress is an expected human response that a child will experience around academic activities that are more demanding than other standard school activities. Anxiety, however, is a heightened response to a stressful event that can impact on concentration, retention and recall.  Therefore, a child experiencing heightened test anxiety is likely to under-perform in an assessment, which means it is not a meaningful measure of their actual knowledge and understanding.” It’s this potential lack of effectiveness when it comes to assessments that concerns many educators and school leaders.  Koa Academy Principal and Co-Founder, Mark Anderson says, “Assessments are supposed to be tools for learning.  We test knowledge and understanding so that kids are empowered to reflect on their learning and identify areas where they need to focus so that that they are continuously enhancing knowledge and understanding.  But if the test does not accurately assess their actual knowledge and understanding because they were overwhelmed by anxiety and unable to show what they can do, then the test was not just a meaningless event, it was also harmful to them.  Poor test results damage a child’s self-confidence and leads them to believe that they just can’t ‘do’ a certain subject or a segment of content.  So, at Koa, we think differently about how we do assessments so that they are tools that kids can use confidently to reflect on and advance their learning.” Finding the balance between stress and anxiety Mokoena and Anderson agree that the aim is not to eliminate all stress from a child’s experience.  Mokoena points out that stress in anticipation of writing tests is normal, and that it alerts the child to a notable change in their school life and should prompt and motivate them to focus on meeting the upcoming challenges.   Anderson says, “I always say to our Koa parents that I don’t mind if their kids are under a healthy amount of pressure. This is manageable stress that helps them grow and develop.  Facing a challenge is stimulating and inspiring – it helps to develop grit, perseverance and leads to self-mastery.  However, there’s a tipping of the scales when this healthy pressure becomes sustained anxiety that impedes a child’s learning, impacts negatively on their well-being and sets them up to deliver sub-par performances.” Mokoena advises parents to be on the lookout for signs that their child is not coping with the rigours of end-of-year exams.  She says, “There are both physical and behavioural indications of test anxiety, and parents need to pay attention to these because often a child may not be able to find the words to communicate their experienced anxiety.” During study and exam time, parents may notice: Changes in mood and demeanour – for example, a child who develops a shorter temper or less tolerance in dealing with people during exam time Changes in eating and sleeping patterns Loss of interest in enjoyable activities Restlessness, fidgeting, or difficulty in remaining still particularly during study time Distraction and avoidance of study time Physical changes – such as elevated levels of perspiration; different breathing patterns, palpitations and tightness in the chest; frequent headaches or stomach aches There are various strategies that parents can use to help their child manage test anxiety: Acknowledge your child’s feelings, and do not blame them for feeling overwhelmed.  There is nothing ‘wrong’ with your child.  Test anxiety, which is a form of performance anxiety, is common human experience for both children and adults.  Be compassionate and understanding so that your child is in no doubt that they have your full support Teach your child deep breathing and help them practice this relaxation technique regularly so that it can become a habitual response to feeling overwhelmed Help your child organise their study time with a schedule and a daily timetable that they are in charge of.  Taking control and tackling study tasks one at a time, can build confidence in their ability to cope Make sure your child’s study plan includes breaks that take into account their endurance when it comes to focus and concentration Make sure there is scheduled time for them to be physically active every day, as this helps to release endorphins which relieve mental stress Ensure that your child eats healthy foods and gets sufficient sleep If necessary, get advice or support from a professional such as an educational psychologist While these practices can help families cope with a child that has test anxiety in the short term, they don’t address the root cause of test anxiety, which lies in the profusion of testing in South African schools.  Anderson recommends that parents fully consider assessment strategy when making their school choices.  He says, “Parents should question a school’s approach to assessment and feel comfortable that their child’s school offers productive assessments.” Assessments for real-world application As an online school, Koa uses a variety of assessments that are embedded in the learning activities which are less focused on rote memorisation and are rather focused on mastery and application skills.  These types of assessments give learners, parents and teachers rich feedback about the learner’s knowledge and understanding of content.  Anderson says, “As

Brainline

SCORES OF DISTANCE EDUCATION GRADE 12 LEARNERS START FINAL EXAMS

Distance Education Provider, Brainline, says their pupils will once again participate in this year’s IEB examination, which is quality assured by Umalusi, the Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education.  ‘Brainline learners will write their exams at approved Brainline centres in three provinces: Gauteng, Kwa-Zulu Natal and the Western Cape, from the 19th of October. Our hearts and minds are with our matriculants and we wish them all the best,’ says Brainline CEO, Coleen Cronje. The IEB National Senior Certificate is an internationally benchmarked qualification and is equivalent to Cambridge AS level. Brainline’s matriculants come from not only South Africa, but many other parts of the world, where South African citizen resides as expats.  ‘This includes Botswana, Taiwan, Saudi Arabia, Namibia, United Arab Emirates, Brazil, Philippines, Malaysia, Spain, New Zealand, Germany, India and more,’ Cronje explains. As with the final exams written by learners within the public school system, IEB-learners will also write exams in the following subjects;  Afrikaans Home Language, English First Additional Language, English Home Language, Afrikaans First Additional Language Accounting, Agricultural Sciences, Business Studies, Computer Applications Technology, Consumer Studies, Dramatic Arts, Economics, Engineering Graphics & Design, Equine Studies, Geography, History, Life Orientation, Life Sciences , Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Music, Physical Sciences, Tourism and Visual Arts.  Cronje says their students have received optimal support to prepare them for this important exam. ‘In the world of the digital school, learners can feel lost without guidance and a tutor.  With our online live classes, which are saved for future reference, we address that need for the distance learner.  Gone are the days of the old model learner management systems with boring downloads and links.  This is the new era of a school at home, with all the support that one can expect in a traditional school, but on your own terms.’ Cronje says accommodations for special needs learners offer support to those who require additional assistance due to barriers to learning. ‘We assist learners and their families with the application, communicating with the IEB on their behalf, and providing the necessary facilities during the Grade 12 final examination.  According to the accommodation granted to them, it may range from separate venues to readers and scribes or as technology assists us, the use of a digital C-pen for audible translation of the written word.’ Brainline has provided structured home education on a distance education model to thousands of learners since 1990. Home education in South Africa has experienced significant growth over the last few years. At the end of 2018 there were an estimated 100,000 home education learners in the country . ‘Several factors have driven the growth of home education as an alternative option, ranging from increasingly sophisticated distance e-learning technology to an ever-growing network of tutors. Because it’s based on individual needs, home education can provide a safe space for children who may have found the traditional schooling environment challenging,’ says Cronje. The IEB class of 2021received a 98.39% pass rate, up from 98.07% in 2020. Brainline learners achieved 178 A’s, 310 B’s and 385 C’s. 

Brainline

Online learning the solution to challenges of learner placements in schools


As thousands of parents and guardians await the news whether their children have been placed for the 2023 academic year or not, online school, Brainline says online learning remains a viable and reliable solution for learner placement challenges. Last month, Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi revealed that a total of 764 062 applications were submitted and processed for both Grade 1 and 8 and the department have 332 477 learners to place. Brainline CEO, Coleen Cronje, says the uncertainty of the future can get the better of some families. ‘In October, parents and guardians in Gauteng have started to receive SMSes with placement offers, which will only conclude by the end of November. Until then, many families remain under severe stress and uncertainty over the future of their children’s education. Many face the reality that their children might miss school if not placed by the start of the new year,’ she says. (Ref: https://ewn.co.za/2022/10/02/placement-offers-for-gr-1-and-8-to-be-sent-from-monday-lesufi)  The Gauteng education department’s online admissions portal was launched in 2016 to streamline the process. After applications for the 2023 school year opened in July, the portal received its highest number of applications ever. Parents applying for their children were able to join an “e-queue” at five schools at the same time. But less than half the learners have been placed in their first-choice schools because of limited spots available and based on the placement criteria. Cronje says with online learning, parents and learners are not subjected to second, third or fourth options.    ‘Innovation has paved the way for an alternative form of education and, with the latest technology, Brainline is bridging the gap to accommodate the digital age. Our teachers present online classes in innovative ways, challenging the status quo of blackboard teaching. These online classes are essentially breaking down the invisible walls of traditional teaching, by presenting the curriculum in new and exciting ways, bringing the classroom to life, and invigorating the lesson material. In this way, Brainline is revolutionising home education for today’s learner and we always have space for new applicants’ Cronje explains. The education department has identified 275 primary schools and 221 high schools where the number of applications exceeded the number of learners the schools could accommodate. Online school, Brainline, is recognised by the IEB, which is the examination board for many private schools in South Africa. ‘This means that learners follow the South African National Curriculum (similar to the curriculum offered in South African schools) resulting in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) upon successful completion of their matric exams.’ The enrolment for the 2023 academic year is already in full swing and Cronje says there a number of benefits to enrolling early. ‘Avoid the rush and be prepared for classes when school starts in January. It also allows for more time to order books and other study material. By enrolling early, families also get the opportunity to save on their annual tuition fees.’ For more information visit www.brainline.com

Koa Academy

ENGAGING WITH SCHOOL SUBJECTS – THE KOA ACADEMY DIFFERENCE

Traditionally schools have taken a strict siloed approach to teaching subjects like Science, Geography, History and Art.  Since most parents went to school, subjects such as Technology, EMS (Economic and Management Sciences) and Life Orientation have also been added to the curriculum.  Laden with content, these subjects are typically taught by content specialist teachers standing up in front of the class with textbook support.  Everyone needs to be on the same page and to progress at the same time.  To ensure the content sinks in and facts are remembered, kids undergo frequent tests and exams. Mark Anderson, Co-founder and Principal of Koa Academy, says “We engage often with parents of junior school kids who complain about the relentlessness of anxiety-provoking tests.  When we designed Koa Academy, we looked to the online space for better ways to provide opportunities and tools for kids to learn about these subjects in new and more meaningful ways.  In real life, subjects are constantly over-lapping – you can’t learn about Ancient Egyptian civilisation in history without proper consideration of the geography of the Nile River and its life-supporting annual floods. Finding ways to integrate learning across these subjects is essential for meaning and relevance so that today’s kids grasp the true interconnectedness of the world.  It’s hard for this to happen naturally when you teach subjects in artificial silos.” As a high-engagement online school, Koa places a strong focus on educating children for the real world so that their youthful learning experiences are laying foundations for both tertiary studies and their future work.  While Mathematics and languages are taught on their unique trajectories, the content subjects in grades 4-9 are delivered through Koa’s Engage Tasks.  Mark explains that these are short, stimulating online courses for the learners in the younger grades.  He says, “Each term 10 to 12 Engage Tasks are made available, along with a guiding roadmap so that learners can deep-dive into the content-heavy subjects at their own pace.”  Each Koa learner is part of an 8-person Pod run by their teacher who keeps track of academic progress, and is there to provide any necessary support.  The goal of the courses is to enable the child to understand the content, and be able to apply what they have learnt.  Instead of test after test, each Engage Task has an assessment that requires the child to apply their new knowledge and solve problems which mimic how we deal with that same content in the real world. Mark says, “This is so much better than the stressful experience of standardised class tests which are mostly assessing a child’s ability to memorise content rather than understand it.  There’s plenty of opportunities embedded in the learning process for rich, two-way feedback and it empowers kids to reflect on their own learning, which is an essential characteristic of a lifelong learner.” Discover Koa Academy here

Koa Academy

HOW KOA ACADEMY IGNITES PASSION FOR FUTURE CAREERS

One of the advantages of an online school platform is that technology makes it incredibly easy to enable kids to connect with invited experts and professionals.  For instance, high-engagement online school Koa Academy hosts a monthly online event ‘The Doctor Will Explain You Now’ that brings the learners from Grade 4 and up, as well as their teachers together with a working person who has achieved a doctorate qualification.  The Doctors’ challenge is to explain their PhD thesis in ten minutes in a way that a ten year old can understand. Mark Anderson, Co-founder and Principal of Koa Academy, says “This is one of the ways that we bring real world into our classrooms and highlight for the kids that the learning they are doing now is going to matter one day in the real world.  They have a fantastic opportunity to engage with a range of individuals who are solving problems and making advances through their research.  It broadens our kids’ horizons and shows them how people can connect their interests and their passions to earning a living.” One of the school’s favourite experts so far this year has been Dr Tarryn Cawood, a geologist with a PhD in Earth Sciences with expertise in structural geology, tectonics and ore deposit research.  Mark says, “When Tarryn came to Koa to explain her doctoral thesis, our kids who love collecting rocks were particularly on fire!  It was an eye-opener for them to connect with someone doing what they love to do and discover that it is a possibility that you can make a career out of your interests.  What’s also good for the kids is that there is an academic robustness to the conversation, and they realise that there’s much more to rocks than they’ve ever thought about before.” The Doctor Will Explain You format highlights the vast range of interests in the world of academia that kids can potentially tap into.  Mark says, “What I love is how often our presenters say to me afterwards that finding relatable ways to explain their theses to our kids was almost as stimulating and challenging for them as writing them.  I think this important, because too often academia is inaccessible, and it is important to take high level academics and make it understandable and available, especially to the young people who are our future game-changers and problem-solvers.”   Discover Koa Academy here.

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