UNISA’s shift from traditional long-distance learning to the long-distance e-learning

The University of South Africa (UNISA) has long been a pioneer in distance learning on the continent. For decades, it empowered students worldwide. They could study without setting foot on campus. This was long before the internet made “remote learning” a catchword.

Nonetheless, as technology transformed education, so too did UNISA’s approaches. Today, UNISA is recognised as the number one long distance e-learning provider in South Africa. It enrolls thousands of students, not only from South Africa but from across the globe. Not to mention that UNISA is also popular among African individuals who favour distance learning.

I remember when I first enrolled as a student at UNISA. I used notepad to write my written assignments. I also used mark-reading-sheet for multiple choice assignments.

 Today, with a click to UNISA’s teach platform “My Modules,” students can download assignment questions. They can also submit in their assignment scripts. Also, exams are being conducted online, signifying the impact technology have on long distance learning.

 Let’s examine how things were done before the digital revolution. Additionally, we’ll explore how technology has redefined the UNISA experience today.

1. Assignments: Traditional vs Digital Submission

 Then

UNISA students would complete assignments on paper. They would seal them in envelopes and send them via the post office or courier. Sometimes, they dropped them off at an assignment box available at the regional office, which I used a lot. As a student, I would often wait for feedback on my marked hardcopy assignment. I just wanted to see what the marker had to say about my assignment.

 Now

Today no need for students to stress that their assignments get lost somewhere or went missing at the courier. Assignments are uploaded instantly through “my Modules” or other online platforms. Submissions are timestamped, secure, and promptly available to lecturers.

Feedback can be delivered faster, and students can track progress in real-time. No more worrying about postal delays or lost envelopes.

2. Learning Resources: Traditional approaches vs Digital Uploads

 Then

 When UNISA embraced multimedia learning in its early stages, students received CDs or DVDs. These contained lecture recordings and visual materials. This was cutting-edge at the time. It required a CD drive, which became less common as devices evolved.

I remember getting CD which contained essential information about how to go about studying at UNISA. Study material used to strictly hard copy, I would get study guards and tutorial letters.

 Now

Today, study material is being uploaded online. UNISA still ships hardcopy materials. Nevertheless, students do not have to wait for them to arrive. They can access materials using ‘myUnisa.’

Lectures conduct live lessons using technology like Microsoft Team. These lessons can be recorded. They can then be uploaded directly to online portals. Once uploaded, they are accessible from any device — phone, tablet, or computer.

Whether a student missed the meeting or had network problem.  Students can stream recorded lessons, pause, rewind, and watch as much as they wish. Learning is now portable, immediate, and interactive.

3. Exams: Venue-Based vs Online Exam

 Then

 Exams were traditionally written in physical venues across the country (and abroad for international students). Students travelled — sometimes hundreds of kilometers — to sit in halls with invigilators, answer booklets, and strict start times. Student would be expected to come early at venue. That meant if the students came late by five minutes, would not be allowed writing and risked failing.

 Now

 Many assessments are conducted online, using secure platform, Moodle that observes integrity while offering flexibility. Students can write from the comfort of home, avoiding travel costs and time constraints.  Students use The Invigilator app that monitor students when writing their exams.

The Invigilator app requires students to take a selfie. They must also take a screenshot of their ID and script. This shift to online assessments has made education more accessible and inclusive.

Invigilator app is not only invigilating tool at UNISA as Moodle proctoring is being utilised for multiple choice question exams. Iris is also used to watch students live when writing their exams.

Embracing the future, honouring the past

 UNISA’s transformation is more than a change in tools — it’s a change in speed, accessibility, and possibilities. The traditional way was pivotal to building UNISA’s legacy. Printed study material and venue exams also played a crucial role in establishing UNISA as a leader in distance education.

 But today’s digital platforms allow UNISA to reach further, respond faster, and personalise learning like never before. The university’s journey shows a universal truth in education. Techniques change, but the mission remains the same. It is about empowering students to succeed, wherever they are. UNISA has utilised technology very well as the globe is now digitally linked