Educating the Masses: Teaching GIS at an African University

J.H. Botha
University of the North, Sovenga, SOUTH AFRICA

There is a general lack of GIS courses at South African universities, and more so in institutions located in the previously disadvantaged rural areas of the country. The need for GIS training at a tertiary institution is self-evident. The Geography department of the University of the North (UNIN) currently presents an introductory course in GIS to post-graduate students. Within the historical context of the university this presents several problems to prospective GIS educators. Lack of facilities, large student numbers and lack of computer experience by both students and lecturers are just some of the difficulties faced by GIS lecturers. This paper examines these problems and try to present solutions applicable not only to UNINUs situation but also to tertiary institutions in other developing countries which are experiencing similar problems.

Presentation format:
Poster-paper

J.H. Botha
Dept. of Geography
University of the North
Private Bag X1106
Sovenga
0725
SOUTH AFRICA
tel: +27-152-268-3196
FAX: +27-152-268-2323