Education delivery has become a customized personal learning experience demanding interactive group activity that is free from time and distance constraints, according to Professor Herman van der Merwe, Executive Dean of Economic Sciences and Information Technology at the North-West University (Vaal Triangle Campus). He discussed the growing need for technology to create an adaptive education environment at the second 4Courses Dinner held in Johannesburg on Thursday, 29 March.

Hosted by Edexcel, an international awarding body offering vocational and academic qualifications to South African education institutions, the intimate dinner focused around the topic of ‘educating the mobile generation’ was held at popular Dunkeld restaurant, DW Eleven-13, owned by renowned chef Marthinus Ferreira. 4Courses Dinners aim to provide a platform for interaction amongst leading stakeholders within the education sector. An aspirational supper club geared towards top educators, colleges, corporates and government SETAS. Invited speakers share their thoughts on trends in the qualifications and educations industry to an exclusive guest list of professionals.

Professor van der Merwe, who is also CEO of an expert centre called CUTE (Centre for the Utilisation of Technology in Education), spoke of the changing needs of today’s young learners. Widely regarded by his peers as a technology visionary, he outlined the profile of today’s always ‘on’ students. He took a look at their increased needs and highlighted how educators should be actively interacting with their students. 

“Developing relevant education is at the heart of our business, so conceptualising the 4Courses Dinners just made sense for us”, comments Ian Yoell, Managing Director of Edexcel Southern Africa. He adds, “Having a hand in bringing together leaders in the field of education whilst sparking discussion, and possibly collaborations, is an honour for us.”