Smart Learning Discussion Sparks Insights on the Future of Education

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A Smart learning round table discussion designed for both students and educators was recently hosted by the School of Commerce at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), the event highlighted the need for adaptive, forward-thinking teaching and learning strategies in the new digital world.

Opening the session was, Professor Stephen Mutula, Dean and Head of the School of Commerce, who reflected on the recent merger between Schools and the evolving educational landscape.

‘This round table discussion is significant when we consider the greater scale of things, Smart learning is a crucial component of Project Renewal - which aims to enhance the learning experience. Our students are stepping into a competitive world, and I am happy we get to have such discussions so that we are able to meet global standards,’ said Mutula.

The session was facilitated by Professor Upasana Singh, Associate Professor and Academic Leader at UKZN who welcomed notable guest speaker Professor (Dr) Badrul Khan.

Khan is a globally acclaimed pioneer in e-learning and the founder of multiple educational technology initiatives in the United States. He is widely known for coining the term “web-based instruction” and popularising it through his 1997 bestselling book.

Covering the theme of the event Khan presented his Smart learning Framework - an evolution of his e-learning philosophy that now addresses both technological and pedagogical needs in the 21^st-century classroom.

‘The core idea behind Smart learning is to identify what can be effectively taught online and what cannot,’ said Khan. He then broke down the Smart acronym:

•    S - Sustainable learning, which emphasises knowledge that “sticks” and is applicable beyond the classroom;

•    M - Motivating learning, which is goal-driven and engages learners emotionally and intellectually, often through stories or humour;

•    A - Adaptable learning that incorporates emerging digital tools and customises learning pathways;

•    R - Result-oriented learning that is outcomes-based with clear, measurable objectives; and

•    T - Technology-enabled learning supported by robust infrastructure.

Each letter in this model presents key principles that guide effective and engaging learning and also aims to improve both teaching and learning in the digital age.

While making sure what is taught in the classroom is effective, it is also important to understand what students’ value in a learning environment. Khan shared insights from his research he conducted with students.

‘From the result I found that students want learning spaces that are interactive, engaging, device-independent, and accessible. The learning should have a clear focus, be easy to navigate, and respect their increasingly limited attention spans,’ he explained.

He stressed that while the digital shift provides flexibility, it also demands strong guidance. Elements such as clear evaluation criteria, online resource support, and ethical practices remain essential components of effective digital education.

Professor Bruce Rhodes, Dean of Teaching and Learning, who was in attendance acknowledged the resonance of the discussion’s theme with UKZN’s strategic objectives.

‘The Smart framework speaks to where we are and where we’re going. We’ve embraced digital platforms through our ICS division, enabling global access for our students and staff. While there’s more progress to be made, it’s encouraging to see UKZN already aligning with global best practices in blended learning,’ he noted.

Closing the session with a vote of thanks was Dr Michelle Hatch, academic leader of Teaching and Learning in the School of Commerce.

‘We are truly grateful to have had such enriching conversations. As we move forward, it’s vital that we continue to create learning environments that are not just smart, but also inclusive and student-centred,’ she said.

The webinar not only offered a platform for knowledge exchange but also reinforced UKZN’s commitment to evolving with the educational needs of the future.

Words: Ayanda Radebe

Photograph: Albert Hirasen