[AstroNet] SAIP webinar : SAIP Physics Teacher Development Project : Implications for Human Capital Development and Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs)

[Sivuyile Manxoyi]

Dear Colleagues and Friends 

The SAIP are also running this webinar today on physics teaching. 

Title: SAIP Physics Teacher Development Project: Implications for Human Capital Development and Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 


Speakers: Prof David Wolfe – IOP Africa Volunteer 
Mr Vusi Mngomezulu – Allan Gray 
Dr Sam Ramaila – University of Johannesburg 
Dr Erick Maluta – University of Venda 
Dr Derek Fish – University of Zululand Science Centre 

Abstract: 


South Africa faces a fundamental and systemic challenge of poor quality of mathematics and science education leading to low physical science pass rates at school. This poor quality has an adverse impact on the whole science, engineering and technology skills pipeline. In response to this state of affairs, fundamental concerns were expressed by the physics community about the quality of students entering universities and the state of undergraduate physics teaching and learning in South Africa. The SAIP carried out the Review of Physics Training in South Africa in partnership with the Council on Higher Education (CHE) with a view to address these concerns. Outputs of the review include the Physics Undergraduate Degree Benchmark Statement, physics education best practices as encapsulated in the Review of Physics Training in South Africa Report and the initiation of the Physics Teacher Development Project. 
Significant strides have been made in the implementation of the Teacher Development project. Over 2500 teachers have been reached in 5 provinces and the project is expanding to cover all the 9 provinces. A positive impact has been reported on improved matric results as well as improved teacher professional competence and confidence in teaching physical science. During COVID-9 lockdown, SAIP managed to broaden educational pathways to STEM education by reaching teachers through both online training and support material distribution to schools. Over 20 000 booklets and USBs on Physics Essential Skills for Matric were distributed. The panel discussion will reflect on the project progress and its impact on human capital development thus far. It will also discuss how physics education and human-capital development will address socio-economic development priorities for sustainable realisation of SDGs. An overview will be provided on the physics pedagogical approaches adopted, how interested parties can partner the project, and the pivotal role played by various key stakeholders towards the enhancement of the quality of physics education for purposes of developing and nurturing an inclusive next generation of scientists for South Africa. 

For more information please see the SAIP website: SAIP Webinar 13 November 2020 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=2768534150030329&id=1660099704207118 











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