The paperless classroom

The paperless classroom

With schools opening in Gauteng this week, the year started off on a high note at Boitumelong Secondary School in Tembisa, Johannesburg.

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The school is one of seven schools to launch the Smart Schools' Paperless Education Project in Gauteng. The project was launched by Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa, Gauteng MEC for education Panyaza Lesufi and the premier of GP, David Makhura.

The project aims to get rid of the traditional chalkboard and replace it with smartboards and as the MEC said "Gone are the days when they have to write in exercise books and hand in the assignment."

We had a great response on-air yesterday, with people stating their views on going paperless. 

I love the fact that our children are being taught about technology and that technology is being integrated into the classroom, however I do have a few reservations about this.

During my schooling years, I benefited from taking down notes that my teacher was writing on the board. In fact, that was 50% of my studying done. We had a computers and tech class where we were taught how to use computers and other technology of the time so we weren't left in the dark. I also am wary of the misuse of these devices, not to mention what happens when said device gets lost, or stolen - or crashes? All that information will be lost.

According to reports, the department plans to roll out the project to all Gauteng township and rural schools by the end of the 2017/2018 financial year and this comes at an estimated cost of R17bn.

All high school children will be provided with a tablet computer (lucky things!) and will be trained to use the devices in Grade 7.

So what do you think? Do you think we are ready for completely paperless classrooms? Are you for, or against this idea?

(Photo: Gallo Images) 

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