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Mastering maths via Mxit

23 February 2010

The South African government has teamed up with cellphone giant Nokia and publisher Pearson to develop the Imfundo Yam/Yethu project, which aims to get students more interested in mathematics through the use of popular instant messaging programme Mxit.

According to education specialist Henry Kavuma, the project, which allows grade 10 learners to access mathematics content and assessment exercises via MXit software on their mobile phones, will be a great success because learners nowadays spend hours of their free time on programmes like MXit.

According to chief education specialist Henry Kavuma, the project is being piloted in 30 schools around the country.

"Each school from the 30 that were chosen has been provided with a kit which includes 10 mobile phones and training," Kavuma said in a statement by the Eastern Cape Department of Education this week.

GPRS network, ICT literacy

Criteria for the participating schools included general packet radio service network coverage in the area, a computer with internet connection for maths teachers, and most pupils should have GPRS-enabled phones.

Teachers must also have basic information communication technology (ICT) skills, such as being able to use e-mail programmes, word processors and spreadsheet programmes.

The project has just been expanded to the Eastern Cape province, where KwaKomani Comprehensive School, Gill College, JS Skenjana High School, Kanise High School, George Mqalo High School and Victoria Girls High School have been chosen to take part.

"The success of this project in these six schools will see it being rolled out in the entire province," Kavuma said.

SAinfo reporter