A Critical Assessment Of The Digital Learning Environment In South African Classrooms, With A Focus On E-Textbooks

Author : Johannes Andreas Gerhardus BEUKES

Abstract :The integration of digital technology in educational settings has become increasingly prevalent worldwide, including in South African classrooms. This research review paper critically assesses the digital learning environment in South African classrooms, with a specific focus on the use of e textbooks. The aim is to evaluate the effectiveness, challenges, and potential benefits of incorporating e-textbooks into the traditional classroom setting while considering the unique context of South Africa's educational landscape. The review begins by examining what is an E-textbook and its implementation it also looks at the future of E-Textbooks: challenges and considerations. Additionally, it explores the potential benefits of E-Textbooks in addressing the issue of limited access to physical textbooks faced by many South African students. However, the review also highlights several challenges associated with the implementation of E-Textbooks, including infrastructural limitations, the digital divide, inadequate teacher training, and concerns regarding digital literacy among students. The research review paper also critically examines the perspectives and experiences of teachers and students regarding the integration of E-Textbooks. It considers their attitudes towards E-Textbooks, their comfort levels with digital tools, and their ability to effectively utilize E-Textbooks for teaching and learning purposes. Furthermore, the review investigates the potential influence of sociocultural factors, such as language diversity and the digital divide, on the implementation and adoption of E Textbooks in South African classrooms. In conclusion, this research review paper highlights the advantages and challenges associated with the use of E-Textbooks and evaluates their impact on student engagement and learning outcomes. It also gives recommendations for the Successful Integration of E-Textbooks in education. The findings of this review will contribute to a deeper understanding of the potential of E-Textbooks in improving educational practices in South Africa and offer insights for policymakers, educators, and researchers seeking to leverage digital technology effectively in the classroom.

Keywords :E-Textbooks, South African Classroom, implementation, teacher training.

Conference Name :International Conference on Distance Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (ICDTLHE-24)

Conference Place Mombasa, Kenya

Conference Date 21st Nov 2024