Reference: Published by Staff Writer (BusinessTech), 7 Jun 2024

https://businesstech.co.za/news/lifestyle/775818/new-subjects-added-for-schools-in-south-africa/?utm_source=everlytic&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=businesstech

The Department of Basic Education has officially integrated coding and robotics into the curriculum for Grades R to 9 by updating the National Policy on Programme and Promotion Requirements. This significant addition aims to equip young learners with essential skills for the digital age.

Having piloted coding and robotics in select schools since 2021, starting with Grades R to 3, the department has now expanded the program to include all learners from Grades R to 9 in the National Curriculum Statement.

For the youngest learners in Grades R to 3, coding and robotics will be taught alongside mathematics. From Grades 4 to 9, the subject will be integrated with mathematics, natural sciences, and technology.

While coding and robotics are now recognized under the National Qualifications Framework alongside other STEM subjects like computer applications technology, mathematics, and information technology, they are not yet part of the curriculum for Grades 10 to 12.

Here’s an overview of how the subject is structured at each educational phase:

Grades R – 3: Foundation Phase

The subject is divided into five study areas:

• Pattern Recognition: Learners identify abstract and geometric patterns, enhancing problem-solving skills through design and computational thinking.
• Algorithms and Coding: Starting with physical coding activities in Grade 1, progressing to digital platforms that are engaging and easy to learn.
• Robotics Skills: Introduction to basic mechanical and electrical engineering concepts, creating logical steps for robots, and understanding electrical circuits.
• Internet and E-Communicating: Covers digital identities, internet safety, basic network knowledge, and safe web browsing.
• Application Skills: Basic text editing, spreadsheet use, and handling digital devices.

Grades 4 – 6: Intermediate Phase

The subject focuses on four study areas:

• Algorithms and Coding: Development of programming skills using block-based coding platforms that facilitate easy drag-and-drop coding.
• Robotics Skills: Introduction to microcontrollers coded via block-based platforms.
• Internet and E-Communication: Topics include digital citizenship, internet use, and understanding piracy, plagiarism, and copyrights.
• Application Skills: Emphasizes text editing, spreadsheets, multimedia editing, and computer-aided drawing.

Grades 7 – 9: Senior Phase

In this phase, the subject is also organized into four study areas:

• Algorithms and Coding: Advanced programming skills developed using a hybrid of block-based and line-based coding, focusing on programming concepts without syntax complexities.
• Robotics Skills: Continued learning in mechanical and electrical engineering, combining engineering design and computational thinking, with microcontrollers coded through line-based platforms.
• Internet and E-Communication: Skills for safe interaction in both digital and physical worlds.
• Application Skills: Developing advanced end-user skills for data analysis, website development, including HTML and CSS, and advanced spreadsheet applications.

By embedding coding and robotics into the curriculum, South Africa is taking a bold step towards preparing its students for the challenges and opportunities of the future digital landscape.