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Bongani NRF 25 yearsNRF in the News October 30, 2024 This year, the NRF is celebrating a major milestone in our history as we commemorate 25 years of Research, Innovation, Impact and Partnerships. It always gives us great joy to share the accomplishments and impact of the many students and researchers we have supported during various stages of their careers. We thank all participants for submitting their stories and hope you enjoy reading about their journey with the NRF. Mr Tshibalo Praise Netswera is a tutor in the Multimedia Department and a Master’s student at the University of Johannesburg. He received funding from the NRF for his Honours and Master’s studies. How did your journey start? I have always been fascinated by the arts, design and multimedia from a young age. Growing up, I was constantly engaged in creative activities, whether it was drawing, designing, or exploring new technologies. This passion naturally guided me towards a creative and digital design career. For my undergraduate studies, I chose to enrol at IIE Vega School where I pursued a BA in Digital Design. This institution is known for its strong focus on creative and digital disciplines, which align perfectly with my interests and career goals. My time at Vega School was incredibly enriching, and I graduated with distinction (2020 to 2023). After completing my undergraduate degree, I aimed to deepen my expertise in multimedia and design. This led me to the University of Johannesburg (UJ) where I enrolled for a BA Hons in Design (Multimedia) program. My Honours studies were supported by the NRF and I successfully completed this degree cum laude. The NRF funding was crucial in providing the resources and support needed to excel in my research and studies. Currently, I am pursuing my MA in Design (Multimedia) at the University of Johannesburg with the support of NRF funding. The NRF has significantly impacted my life, providing crucial support during a time of financial difficulty and other life challenges. This advanced degree allows me to engage in more specialised and impactful research within the multimedia field. I am fortunate to be funded by the NRF and am determined to make the most of this opportunity. In the future, I aim to assist students and researchers who cannot afford their fees and aspire to become a donor for the NRF, giving back to the community that has supported me. Reflecting on my journey, I did not have a precise vision of where I would end up, but I always knew I wanted to be in a field that combined creativity, technology, and innovation. My experiences have exceeded my initial expectations, providing me with opportunities to grow both academically and professionally. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue an MPhil in Digital Transformation next year at the Johannesburg Business School (University of Johannesburg). This next step will further expand my knowledge and capabilities, enabling me to contribute more effectively to the field of multimedia and digital design. In summary, my study and career journey has been a blend of passion, strategic educational choices, and taking advantage of opportunities like those provided by the NRF. Each step has been guided by a desire to innovate and make a meaningful impact in my field. I am committed to continuing this path with the same enthusiasm and commitment, leveraging my skills and experiences to support the development of future researchers and drive advancements in multimedia and digital transformation. Lastly, l would like to be a full-time NRF researcher. How has your affiliation with the NRF impacted your studies/career? My association with the NRF began when I started exploring opportunities for research funding to support my postgraduate studies. The NRF’s programs are designed to develop researchers in South Africa, offering grants and resources to undertake significant research projects. Recognising the potential impact of my work, I applied for NRF funding to support my research in multimedia technologies and their applications in education and digital solutions. My relationship with the NRF has been instrumental in shaping my academic and professional journey. The NRF has provided critical funding and support at multiple stages of my education: The NRF funded my BA Hons in Design (Multimedia). This financial support was crucial in allowing me to focus on my studies and research without the added pressure of financial constraints. I am currently pursuing an MA in Design (Multimedia), also supported by the NRF. This ongoing funding enables me to continue my advanced research on bridging the digital divide and addressing technological barriers in first-year education at universities. a) Impact on Career and Development Enhanced Research Opportunities: NRF funding has allowed me to undertake significant research projects that have advanced my knowledge and expertise in multimedia and interaction design. This includes my honours research on enhancing student engagement in online learning and my current master’s research. Access to Resources: The financial support has provided me with access to essential resources such as software, research materials, and technology necessary for conducting high-quality research. Skill Development: Through my NRF-funded studies, I have developed a range of skills in research, critical thinking, and project management, which are invaluable for my professional growth. Networking Opportunities: The NRF funding has opened doors to various academic and professional networks, allowing me to collaborate with other researchers, attend conferences, and engage with the broader academic community. b) Personal Growth and Family Impact Reduced Financial Burden: The NRF funding has significantly alleviated the financial burden of higher education, allowing me to focus on my studies and research without worrying about financial stress. This has had a positive impact on my personal well-being and that of my family. Inspiration and Motivation: Being a recipient of NRF funding has been a source of pride and motivation. It has inspired me to strive for excellence and contribute meaningfully to my field. c) Influence on University and Students Academic Contributions: My research projects have contributed to the academic community at the University of Johannesburg, providing insights and advancements in the field of multimedia and interaction design. Mentorship and Guidance: As a student leader and researcher, I have had the opportunity to mentor and guide fellow students, sharing the knowledge and experiences gained through my NRF-funded research. This has helped create a supportive academic environment and inspired other students to pursue their research interests. The NRF funding has been a cornerstone of my academic and professional journey. It has enabled me to achieve significant milestones, contribute to my field, and positively impact those around me. The NRF has allowed me to focus on my research, develop my skills, and pursue my passion for multimedia and interaction design by providing the necessary resources and support. This support has shaped my career and influenced my personal life and the academic community I am part of. What is your area of expertise? My current research project is focused on bridging the digital divide and addressing technological barriers in first-year education at universities through a human-centred design approach. This research aims to develop solutions that enhance the accessibility and usability of digital tools for students, ensuring that they can fully participate in and benefit from their educational experiences. During my honours degree, my research was based on understanding how a research through design (RtD) approach can be used to investigate the use of interaction design to enhance student engagement in online learning among design discipline students. This project aimed to create more engaging and interactive online learning environments tailored specifically to the needs of design students. By employing RtD, I was able to explore innovative interaction design techniques and their impact on student engagement and learning outcomes. My area of expertise lies at the intersection of multimedia design, interaction design, and educational technology. I have a strong background in digital design, which I further developed during my undergraduate studies at IIE Vega School. This foundation has allowed me to delve deeply into multimedia design and its applications in education. Through my honours and master’s research, I have gained significant insights into the challenges and opportunities related to enhancing student engagement and addressing technological barriers in education. My work is characterised by a human-centred design approach, ensuring that the solutions I develop are user-friendly, accessible, and effective in meeting the needs of diverse student populations. By focusing on the human experience, I aim to create digital tools and environments that foster inclusive and engaging educational experiences for all students. In summary, my current work and studies are dedicated to exploring innovative design solutions that bridge the digital divide and enhance student engagement in online learning. My expertise in multimedia and interaction design, combined with a human-centred approach, enables me to address critical challenges in education and contribute to the development of more inclusive and effective digital learning environments. Why is your work/studies important? Addressing Educational Inequities My research focuses on bridging the digital divide and addressing technological barriers in first-year education at universities through a human-centred design approach. This work is critically important as it tackles the persistent issue of digital inequality, which is particularly pronounced in developing countries like South Africa. Many students from underprivileged backgrounds struggle to access and effectively use digital technologies, which puts them at a disadvantage in an increasingly digital world. By developing solutions that make digital tools more accessible and user-friendly, my research aims to level the playing field, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed academically. Enhancing Student Engagement My Honours research on using research through design (RtD) approach to investigate the use of interaction design to enhance student engagement in online learning is also highly significant. With the rapid shift towards online learning, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, creating engaging and effective digital learning environments has become crucial. By focusing on interaction design, my work aims to improve the quality of online education, making it more interactive and engaging for students. This can lead to better learning outcomes and higher levels of student satisfaction. Broader Impact on Education The potential impact of my work extends beyond individual students. By enhancing digital accessibility and engagement, my research can contribute to the overall improvement of educational systems. More inclusive and effective digital learning environments can lead to higher retention and graduation rates, which can positively impact the workforce and economy. Well-educated individuals are better equipped to contribute to society, driving innovation and progress. Global Relevance While my research is focused on the South African context, the principles and solutions developed can be applied globally. Many countries face similar challenges related to the digital divide and the need for more engaging online learning environments. By sharing my findings and collaborating with international researchers and educators, my work can help address these issues on a broader scale, benefiting students worldwide. Long-term Goals Through my research, I hope to achieve several key goals: Improve Access to Education: Develop digital solutions that are accessible to all students, regardless of their socio-economic background, thereby promoting educational equity. Enhance Learning Outcomes: Create engaging and interactive online learning environments that improve student engagement and learning outcomes. Contribute to Policy and Practice: Provide insights and recommendations that can inform educational policies and practices, leading to more inclusive and effective educational systems. Foster Innovation: Encourage the development of innovative educational technologies and approaches that can be adopted and adapted globally. In summary, my work is important because it addresses critical issues related to digital inequality and student engagement in education. By developing solutions that enhance digital accessibility and create engaging learning environments, my research has the potential to significantly benefit both South Africa and the rest of the world. Through my efforts, I hope to contribute to a more equitable and effective educational landscape, ultimately supporting the development of well-educated and empowered individuals. What are some of your proudest academic achievements? Graduating with Distinction in BA in Digital Design One of my proudest academic achievements is graduating with distinction with my BA in Digital Design from IIE Vega School. This accomplishment reflects my dedication, hard work, and passion for the field of digital design. It was a significant milestone that laid a strong foundation for my further studies and professional development. Completing BA Hons in Design (Multimedia) Cum Laude Another highlight of my academic journey is completing my BAHons in Design cum laude. This achievement was particularly meaningful as it was supported by the NRF, and it underscored my commitment to excellence in multimedia design. The Honours program was rigorous, and graduating cum laude demonstrated my ability to excel in a challenging academic environment. Securing NRF Funding for Honours and Master’s Studies Securing NRF funding for both my honours and master’s studies is a significant achievement. This support has enabled me to pursue advanced research in multimedia design and has provided the resources necessary to conduct impactful studies. Being recognised by the NRF is an acknowledgement of the potential and importance of my research. Conducting Pioneering Research Projects Completing my Honours research project on using a RtD approach to enhance student engagement in online learning is another proud achievement. This research contributed to the academic community and provided valuable insights into improving online education for design discipline students. Similarly, my current Master’s research on bridging the digital divide and addressing technological barriers in first-year education is a source of pride, as it addresses critical issues in education and has the potential to make a significant impact. Recognition and Awards Throughout my academic career, I have received various recognitions and awards celebrating my academic performance and contributions. These accolades serve as a testament to my hard work and the quality of my research and academic endeavours. In summary, my proudest academic achievements include graduating with distinction in my undergraduate degree, completing my honours with cum laude, securing NRF funding for my studies, conducting pioneering research projects, taking on leadership roles, and receiving various recognitions and awards. These accomplishments reflect my commitment to academic excellence, my passion for multimedia design, and my dedication to making a positive impact through my research and leadership efforts.The rights to this article (content and images) are reserved by the National Research Foundation of South Africa. This work is licenced under an Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 DEED) license: this implies that the article may be republished (shared) on other websites, but the article may not be altered or built upon in any way. Credit must be given to the National Research Foundation and a link provided back to the original article. Share on Facebook Share on X
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