Education
Researchers find innovative ways to teach history
History teaching and learning is perceived by many to be boring. This according to students is because history is often presented in such a way that students have to memorize names, dates, and events. Others argue that it is not relevant anymore. But scholars have argued that people who think that history is irrelevant aren’t getting the message that history can repeat itself and by not learning from the mistakes of the past, one is likely to repeat them in the future.
For this reason, scholars at the College of Education and External Studies have worked with their counterparts from Gulu University and Kabale University to find innovative ways of teaching history studies. Headed by Dr. Harriet Nabushawo, the team has identified the use of ICTs in history as one way of spicing up the teaching and learning of history.
During the final dissemination of their research findings on Friday July 7, 2023, Dr. Nabushawo said the research team had discovered that history teaching can be spiced up by using VOKI and Screencast –O-matic applications.
Voki, is a software which allows for the teacher to create avatars to replace the teacher in voice and form while Screencast-O-Matic is used to make videos, images, illustrations, animations and maps. The two applications help kill monotony of text and voice. The research team under their title, Using Emerging Technologies to innovate the Teaching and Learning of Public Universities in Uganda (eHistory) have trained lecturers in Makerere University, Gulu University and Kabale Universities in using these ICTs. The team has also developed an application where all the teaching content has been uploaded. The same has been uploaded on the different learning platforms of the respective universities such as MUELE.
The team recognizes the fact that the 21st Century students are digital natives who prefer learning experiences that involve ICT enhanced tools such as audios, visuals and audio-visuals.
While officiating at the final dissemination, Dr. David Kabugo, who represented the Principal of CEES, encouraged the team to extend the innovation to secondary schools as well, saying the innovation is important for the country and large and will rejuvenate interest in history learning.
He called for adoption of this mode of teaching for humanities subjects for the innovation has allowed a blend of sciences into humanities.
The Dean of the School of Distance and Lifelong learning, Dr. Twine Bananuka congratulated the research team and emphasized the importance of history.
Dr. Godfrey Mayende who represented the Director of IODEL said the project gives the institute hope that e-learning is the way to go. He said the institute is moving towards institutionalizing e-learning for all courses within the university.
The presentative of MAK-RIF, the funding agency of the research, Mrs Phoebe Lutaaya Kamya, encouraged the research team to apply for the 5the MAK-RIF call which will focus on commercialization of innovations. This she said can help in the extension of the project to secondary schools.
Screencast-O-Matic https://screencast-o-matic.com/
This is an Application that allows one to easily create, edit and communicate with videos and images. Educators and students turn to Screencast-O-Matic for easy video communication. Videos are used in the classroom for flipped/blended learning, Video Messaging, student assignments, feedback and more! The App has simple and intuitive tools to share ideas.
This App allows one to create Avators, dress them up, give them the words to say and share with the learners. It is an engaging, collaborative, empowering and fun way to teach and learn.
eHistory App
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KI3RRcVPW4AvmLg5IKhe-UylfFGll42X/view?usp=sharing
This is a groundbreaking educational tool that seamlessly integrates eLearning platforms from three universities to enhance and enrich the teaching of history.
It also provides a friendly learning environment for the 21st Century student who wants to study anywhere, any time.
The app aims to provide students and instructors with an immersive and collaborative learning experience.
The research team
- Dr. Harriet .M. Nabushawo
- Dr. Harriet Najjemba
- Prof. Paul .B. Muyinda
- Dr. Dorothy Sebbowa
- Mr. Jonathan Kizito
- Mr. Joab Mumbere
- Ms. Hope Musiime
The existence of computer facilities in public universities has made it possible to embrace this new technology.
Over 240 students graduated with certificates and diplomas from the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) under the Love Binti Program, which offers training in fashion design and hairdressing.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony on December 13, 2024, Mr. Joseph Watuleke, the program coordinator at Makerere University, noted that while the program has provided free training for seven years, this year’s graduates were required to co-fund 50% of their tuition to ensure sustainability. Due to rising demand, the college introduced diploma-level training and plans to expand into other vocational courses.
Preparing Job Creators, Not Job Seekers
As the global focus shifts from creating job seekers to fostering job creators, graduates from the Love Binti Program expressed interest in pursuing higher education to enhance their qualifications. They called for universities to prioritize vocational courses at the degree level, citing the growing youth unemployment crisis.
“Universities are still producing job seekers, leaving many graduates unemployed due to a lack of practical skills,” said Mr. Moses Conrad Yesuanjagala, a fashion and design graduate. “If more students were enrolled in vocational training, they would be job-ready upon graduation.”
The students made this plea during the Love Binti International graduation ceremony held at Makerere University’s Rugby Grounds, where 244 students were conferred ordinary and advanced certificates in fashion and design.
Transforming Dreams into Reality
Since its founding in 2018, Love Binti International has graduated 1,930 students in Uganda in hairdressing and fashion design. Mr. Yesuanjagala, 53, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, sharing how his lifelong dream of becoming a fashion designer came true through the program.
“I’m a father of grown children, but I still pursued this knowledge because the skills are practical and marketable,” he said, urging universities to embrace vocational skilling.
Similarly, Ms. Sarah Apio, a fellow fashion and design graduate, called on her peers to pursue their passions fearlessly. “The world needs your unique perspective, talent, and passion. Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo and pursue your dreams,” she advised.
Institutional Support and Future Prospects
Dr. Jimmy Tibs Tumwesigye, representing the Department of Adult and Community Education at Makerere, emphasized the need for continuous skilling beyond formal education. He encouraged graduates to form groups and apply for government programs like the Parish Development Model and Emyooga for startup capital.
“Be our ambassadors and train at least five more people. That is how we build a skilled and self-reliant society,” he urged.
Dr. Harriet Nabushawo, Dean of the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, served as the guest of honor. She encouraged graduates to remain proactive, collaborate, and seek out new knowledge and designs online.
On behalf of Makerere University, Dr. Nabushawo pledged continued support for the program, which has been hosted at the university for seven years.
Founder’s Vision and Sustainability Plans
Ms. Elle Yang, founder and executive director of Love Binti International, shared her vision of empowering African men and women through vocational training to combat unemployment. Initially offering fully sponsored programs, she introduced a co-funding model this year due to rising enrollment.
“Instead of giving you fish, I wanted to teach you how to catch it. These skills, if used well, can change your life,” she affirmed.
December 11, 2024
Makerere University has embarked on a comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing the pedagogical and professional competencies of its academic staff. The inaugural training, organized by the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), was officially launched by Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza at Fairway Hotel. The training is facilitated by a team from the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS) at the College of Education and External Studies (CEES).
In his opening remarks, Prof. Buyinza emphasized the urgent need for retooling academic staff in light of emerging challenges such as artificial intelligence (AI) and evolving teaching technologies. “The digital era has reshaped how we teach and learn. We must equip our staff with the necessary pedagogical skills and ethical professionalism to remain at the forefront of higher education,” he said.
Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, one of the lead facilitators, highlighted that the training goes beyond teaching techniques, focusing on developing reflective and adaptive educators. “University teaching today demands more than subject expertise. It requires an intentional blend of pedagogical knowledge, ethical standards, and technological competence,” he remarked.
The University Pedagogy and Professionalism Course was designed in response to gaps identified in higher education teaching. According to the course guidelines, many academic staff possess deep subject-matter expertise but lack structured training in pedagogy and andragogy, essential for effective knowledge transfer.
Participants will engage in an intensive curriculum covering themes such as educational theory, professional ethics, teaching models, assessment strategies, and the integration of emerging technologies. The course, guided by the National Council for Higher Education’s strategic plan, aims to foster continuous professional development among university educators.
Prof. Buyinza concluded by reiterating Makerere University’s commitment to nurturing competent and ethically grounded educators. “This initiative reflects our dedication to academic excellence and our role in shaping the future of higher education in Uganda and beyond.”
The training is expected to run in phases, ensuring that all academic staff receive the essential skills needed to enhance the university’s teaching and learning environment.
