The role of universities in embracing transformation brought about by Fourth Industrial Revolution. a case study of selected tertiary institutions in KwaZulu- Natal
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Date
2021
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Zululand
Abstract
The study examined the role of universities in embracing transformations brought about by the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). The level of awareness that students have on digital learning were examined, as well as the plans put in place by policymakers to transform the curriculum for digital learners. The study further examined how the syllabi are restructured for relevance in the 4IR. Literature reviews within this study focused on factors hindering the universities in equipping students for e-learning. Because of the literature review, the blend of the AIDA, as well as the Shannon and Weaver models, were used to design a model which was adopted for this study. Quantitative and qualitative methods were employed in this study. Random and Purposive sampling was used respectively in selecting both students and staff members from the University of Zululand and the Durban University of Technology who participated in this study. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected using questionnaires and interviews respectively. The collected quantitative data was analysed using SPSS version 25.0, while the qualitative data was presented using tables containing the responses of respondents. The findings of the study established the similarities and differences between the two selected institutions of higher learning in terms of their level of awareness on digital learning, plans made by policymakers, restructuring of the syllabi as well as factors hindering the use of e-learning. The findings of the study show that the adoption of digital learning is already in progress. However, the analysed data and responses of participants also indicate that some are still unprepared, thus, more awareness needs to be created for students to assist them in acquiring the necessary digital skills. Finally, the study provides recommendations in areas that need more attention following the findings of the study. The limitations of the study are also indicated, thereafter suggestions for further studies.
Description
A thesis submitted to the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Art of Art in the department of Communication Science at the University of Zululand, South Africa, 2021.
Keywords
Fourth industrial revolution, digital learners, embracing transformation