Narrowing the Mathematics gap in SA schools

Picture: Supplied

Picture: Supplied

Published Feb 25, 2019

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Cape Town - Despite ongoing emphasis on mathematics, recent matric results show the majority of South African learners have gaps in understanding with regards to Mathematics.

This significantly limits access to higher-level careers in a digital and knowledge economy.

In 2018, less than half of South African learners chose to study pure maths for matric, and of those, only 37% passed with 40% or more. which 

According to research, gaps exist along socioeconomic lines, with the poorest 60% of schools having persistent acquired learning deficits in mathematics. Gaps in understanding mathematics increases as the years go on, making it extremely difficult for learners to catch up to their peers. 

 

Cape Town-based edtech startup, Reflective Learning, aims to tackle this issue.

The diagnostic tool is a personalised catch-up material for high school learners and is also available online for parents and teachers. It provides immediate results with personalised feedback for learners.

“Our aim is to increase opportunities to access mathematics, open doors to tertiary studies in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) fields and ignite a lifelong love for learning,” said Eugene Pelteret, the managing director of Reflective Learning. 

“South Africa needs to tackle the challenge of learning gaps head on."

“However, with the Reflective Learning approach, it is possible for learners already in high school to catch-up and excel in maths, if they are given the opportunity and are willing to put in the effort,” says Pelteret.

Later this year, Reflective Learning will release further catch-up material focusing on fractions, as well as a natural science diagnostic tool. In addition, it will work with the Telkom Foundation in seven schools in Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth.

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