By Makaziwe Sopazi

Rhodes University hosted its much-anticipated Teaching and Learning Showcase on 21 November 2024 under the theme "Transformative Pedagogies in Changing Times." The event, organised by the Centre for Higher Education Research, Teaching and Learning (CHERTL), brought lecturers, researchers and students together to explore transformative teaching methods and share ideas for adapting to the ever-changing educational environment.

The day started with a warm welcome from the DVC: Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Mabokang Monnapula-Mapesela, who expressed her excitement at the showcase's return after an absence of over 5 years.

Prof. Monnapula-Mapesela described the showcase as a platform to elevate the status of teaching and learning at Rhodes University and an opportunity to promote innovation and collaboration in addressing the challenges in higher education 30 years post-democracy.

Prof. Monnapula-Mapesela also acknowledged the work of the 20 scholarly teachers presenting at the showcase who have gone beyond traditional teaching methods to find innovative ways to facilitate inclusivity and enhance student learning across disciplines.   

The DVC ended her welcome by making a call to attendees to continue engaging with the scholarship of teaching and learning as part of their research practice; "Let us encourage our colleagues to research their practice, to investigate it, gather evidence and to discover new transformative methods and approaches, and find solutions to the challenges that prevent and constraint student access and success."

Prof. Wai Sze (Grace) Leung from the University of Johannesburg presented a thought-provoking keynote address on navigating learning and teaching in the age of AI titled Down the Bewildering AI Rabbit Hole: Guiding Learning and Teaching in a Digital Wonderland. The presentation reflected on the complexities and challenges artificial intelligence (AI) presents in the academic landscape, emphasising its transformative potential in teaching and learning.

Acknowledging the ethical dilemmas surrounding the use of AI in academia, Prof. Leung stressed the importance of staying up to date on AI technologies to guide students in using tools like ChatGPT effectively. "You need to adapt your assessment based on what AI is capable of. You also need to maintain an open dialogue with your students. Have that frank conversation with your students about their use of AI."

Prof. Leung ended the presentation by highlighting the importance of engaging with AI systems to contribute to the inclusivity of local knowledge in the digital space and to ensure it serves as a tool for meaningful, transformative learning rather than lazy learning.

The showcase featured diverse presentations from departments across Rhodes University, including contributions from Psychology, Law, Fine Art, Political Science, Entomology, Journalism and Media Studies, Mathematics and Pharmacy.

Many presentations focused on the influence of digital technologies, including digital storytelling, blended learning designs, and tools for enhancing student engagement and feedback. Presenters explored how academics can approach teaching, learning and assessment in the age of rapid technological advancements. A case study presented by Ms Kate Koch from the Department of Mathematics on using adaptive tools for mathematics education showcased efforts to bridge learning gaps through digital platforms.

Social justice, decolonial principles, ethical community engagement, and multilingualism were key themes. A workshop facilitated by Dr Anthea Adams, Prof. Dion Nkomo and Ms Sisonke Mawonga provided an interactive space to discuss the role of multilingualism in promoting inclusivity and enriching student outcomes.

A panel moderated by Dr Rene Oosthuizen explored how Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) bridges the gap between academic concepts and accessible knowledge while advancing research and enhancing teaching and learning practices.

Attendees expressed appreciation for the opportunity to exchange ideas and collaborate. Lecturer and Coordinator of the PGDip (HE) National Programme, Masixole Booi, noted, "It is a great opportunity to learn from colleagues and gain inspiration to improve my pedagogy."

The success of the 2024 Teaching and Learning Showcase has affirmed Rhodes University's dedication to innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in higher education. The showcase is expected to return in 2025 with plans to expand its reach and impact, further cementing its role as a platform to share insights and exchange ideas.