On your marks, get set, write exams!

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By Efterpi Sotiriou

There are hints of green on the trees… the jacarandas are readying to burst into lilac splendour… another year has tumbled forward. Thoughts have begun to turn to end-of-year matters: grade promotion, subject choices, uni-requirements, post-school prospects… and before all that… EXAMS!

How to navigate this trickiest of challenges: as parents, caregivers, students? Most of us harbour memories of nervous cramming, careless errors, frustrating outcomes. On a general level of exam anticipation, you are ‘invited’ to engage with some personally developed observations emanating from the educational ‘front line’.

At the outset, consider the trending view that the exam-focused education system encourages “Teaching to the Test”, focusing solely on the content that is likely to appear in exams. This approach may undermine the broader educational gains of the students and may not adequately reflect the students’ overall abilities or potential. Exams often prioritise subject-specific knowledge over crucial personal development. This mis-alignment can lead to a gap between what students learn in school and what they need in order to thrive beyond it.

Although exams inescapably occupy a gateway position to academic progression, they need to be seen within the wider context of education. Important stepping stones but not perfect! Also – not the sole indicators of capacity or academic application. Educational gains cannot be reflected only within the narrow confines of that notorious maths / biology test! Operating beyond the ‘exam fence’, one may gain a fairer representation of the varying levels of learnt or integrated skills. Here, one may acknowledge related elements of learning outside the exam results, percentages and averages; build on improvements in study organisation and preparation, self-awareness and regulation in testing situations, projections of curious interest and application, language development or creative extrapolation.

Simply stated, work within the system to optimise educational growth but also seek out a balance in personal pursuits within the school ambit – don’t be restricted by it!

A reference point of interest within this review is that provided by Finland; a top educational performer. Finland prioritises learning over passing tests. Schools strive for less stress, unneeded regimentation and more caring approaches for their students. The school environment promotes co-operation not competition. Elements of this individualised and non-regimented approach are well-represented within the pedagogic structure of Think Digital Academy.

In the anticipation of the ‘exam season’ and taking a page out of the above perspectives, let us adopt a ‘softer’ approach to the examination system – driven by sensitive, individualised levels of support, a compassionate engagement, inclusive of on-going, open communication with the students. Banish the fear of failure and the fear of trying. Help build a reservoir of perseverance and willpower. And, while broadening the levels of insight and assessment remember that the ‘fundamentals still apply’ too – strive to provide a safe, stable learning space and don’t forget that a hug, a snack or late night cup of tea retain top position in the strategy of exam preparation.

That being said, here are a few keys to success in developing effective habits for independent learning.

Create a study space at home

Creating a study space at home is key when you study independently from home. Here are some tips for creating a successful study space:

  • Choose a quiet location. Finding a place in your home where you can concentrate and not be distracted by noise or other activities is important.
  • Make sure the space is well-lit and comfortable. You’ll spend a lot of time in your study space. Good lighting is crucial for reducing eye strain.
  • Stock the space with supplies. Ensure all your supplies are within easy reach, including paper, pens, pencils, highlighters, etc. See our online school stationery list.
  • Keep the space clean and organised. Keep the area neat and tidy to help yourself stay calm and focused while working.

Time management strategies for independent study

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to time management for studying independently from home. But, some general strategies can help you maximise your time and get the most out of your independent learning experience.

  • Create a schedule and stick to it. This will help you ensure you spend enough time on each subject and can also help prevent procrastination. It is also important to break down tasks into smaller, manageable pieces so you don’t get overwhelmed.
  • Set deadlines for yourself. This can help keep you on track and motivated and give you a sense of achievement when you reach your goals.
  • Remember to take breaks! Studying for long periods can be mentally and physically exhausting, so giving yourself time to relax and rejuvenate is essential.

Effective study habits for independent learning

There are some general tricks that can help anyone study independently from home.

  • Take effective notes. Taking effective notes can be a powerful tool to help you retain information and stay engaged with the material. Make sure to jot down important concepts, ideas, and key terms as you go along.
  • Active reading. This means not skimming through texts but also highlighting key points, making notes in the margins, and even writing summaries after each chapter.
  • Practice, Practice, Practice. Regular practice quizzes and/or past exam papers are essential for solidifying your understanding of the material. By testing yourself, you can identify any areas that need further review.

Overcoming challenges and staying motivated

In any journey towards success, there will be challenges and obstacles to overcome. Here are a few tips for overcoming challenges and staying motivated:

  • Set realistic goals for yourself, and break them down into small, manageable steps. This will help you stay on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
  • Stay positive and focus on your long-term goals. Remember that setbacks are temporary and that you are in control of your success.
  • Take care of yourself physically and mentally. Get enough rest, exercise, and eat healthy foods to maintain energy levels.
  • Ask for help. There is no shame in admitting that you need assistance to achieve your goals.
  • Celebrate your successes. This will help keep you motivated and remind you of why you are working so hard in the first place.

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The need to read

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Freshly clean, tucked-in, cuddled and snuggled, in happiest anticipation of ‘story time’… Reading is a multi-layered universal ‘prescription’ for childhood joy, comfort and exploration. Perhaps with some overreach one might call them inalienable rights, firmly upheld, freely given. Central to the referenced collective is the experience of reading, fuzzy, funny, fantastical, fabulous BOOKS! Reading is an irreplaceable ‘entrée’ into the world around us, ‘vitamins’ for the growing mind.

Clue: watch the excitement of a child carrying their book into bed at night, tracing the illustrations and sounding out the letters and words they know, imagining what might be next…

Instruction: “Harness the uniquely portable magic of books” (Stephen King).

The uncontested South African truth is that the all-important practice of reading, the encounter with books is not equitably available or actively pursued. This fact is conflicted by the scientific global evidence that places reading (with meaning) at the learning forefront; for it not only prepares children for literacy participation at school but for life. This regimen remains neglected, ill-administered and minimally prioritised nationally. In the absence of a systemic government plan for sufficient budgetary allocation and the availability of trained teachers, the capacity to read a simple story remains tragically illusive.

Evidence: 81% of South African Grade 4 pupils were found to be unable to read with meaning in any language, the highest percentage of all 57 participating countries in the study. This means that of the 1.1. million children in Grade 4, about 900 000 children cannot read or comprehend written text (Progress in International Reading Literacy Study, 2021).

The President has set a goal that “all children can read for meaning by age 10 by 2030”. The ambitious trajectory, undermined further by the COVID-19 pandemic, appears unattainable with “business-as-usual-schooling”. As proposed by the 2030 Reading Panel, collaborative efforts by government and the private sector, dedicated funding, a review of teacher training, minimum norms and standards, and a large-scale procurement of reading resources, remain central to the desired outcomes. All these interventions are important but, at this juncture, we also need to ask: “How can WE help?”.

The problem does not lie with the children, the problem lies with the policy makers and the existing system, yet we should not forget that the basis of early literacy development begins at home. It doesn’t require expensive resources, just a willing and active carer and / or parent / family member.

In the real world of working parents, single parenthood, guardian-care and multiple limitations and barriers to involved parenting; bed-time-story-reading may seem like something that only happens on TV. There may be no book to speak of…

What is needed is a strong sense of awareness, an understanding of the formative role of reading and an embrace of the reading culture solution. Take on any / all opportunities to read with / to your child. Often. Regularly. Informally. Variably. With meaning and extrapolation. Read for joy. Make reading fun. Download our free digital stories from our website. Visit the local library. Exchange and share books. Find an atlas. Adopt a favourite comic strip. Scan an advertisement. Take note of newspaper headlines. Generate a love of shared and paired reading. Be aware of excessive emphasis on correction, reading difficulties or comprehension questions. Encourage interactive, independent and expression-filled reading. Routinely read at a time that works for both you and your child. Practice reading a short poem for a family audience. Celebrate finishing a book. Visit a bookshop with a child. Use technology wisely. Digital resources can be helpful to extend the reading experience. Choose interactive e-books or reading applications designed for children.

Conclusion: Seize every opportunity to share reading with your child. When it comes to reading to your children, the benefits to your child’s life range far beyond the development of a close bond with them, although that’s certainly one of them. Reading aloud to children is truly the single-most important activity for building the understanding and skills essential for reading success that your child will carry with them throughout their life.

Subscribe to our online Reading Room to receive FREE stories every week. It will bring enlightenment and enlarge their world. Dr Seuss said it best, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you will go!”.

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Tips for parents and students on managing stress

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(Even though we know you don’t have much since switching to online.)

Online schooling can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s not without challenges.
One of the biggest hurdles that online schooling parents face is managing stress.
Between juggling daily responsibilities and trying to provide a quality education for your children, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and burnt out.

But fear not!

In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of online schooling stress and offer practical tips for combatting them.

Common causes of online schooling stress

Although online schooling can be a oodles of fun for both parents and children, it can also be a source of stress for the whole family. Here are some common causes of online school stress:

  • Feeling like you’re not doing enough. This is a common cause of online school stress, as parents often feel they should do more to ensure their child’s success.
  • Worrying about your child’s future. Many parents worry about whether or not online schooling will set their child up for success.
  • Lack of routine. Online schooling can be flexible, but that doesn’t mean there shouldn’t be a routine. A lack of structure can lead to feeling overwhelmed and stressed.
  • Unclear expectations. It’s essential to have realistic expectations for online schooling. If you’re putting too much pressure on your child or yourself, it can lead to stress.
  • Too much pressure. Besides having clear expectations, giving yourself and your child some grace is crucial. Relax and enjoy this fun process!

3 Ways students can manage online school stress

There are several ways that students can manage the stress of online schooling. Some common methods include:

  • Taking breaks throughout the day. Make sure to schedule some time for breaks, whether five minutes every hour or a longer break in the afternoon. This will help you avoid burnout and return to your studies refreshed.
  • Keeping a routine. A daily routine can help reduce stress levels by providing structure and predictability. Wake up at the same time each day, eat meals regularly, and carve out time for academics and leisure activities.
  • Staying organised. A cluttered space can lead to a cluttered mind, so keep your workspace tidy. Invest in a planner or utilise digital tools to help you keep track of deadlines and upcoming tests and/or assignments.

How parents can help their kids cope with stressful times

Online schooling can be a big adjustment for both children and parents. Here are some ways you can help your child with online school stress:

  • Allow for some flexibility. If your child is struggling with a particular subject or task, try breaking it up into smaller chunks or allowing them to take a break before returning to it.
  • Make time for breaks and fun activities. Online schooling can be intense, so schedule in time for your child to relax and have fun.
  • Encourage healthy habits. Taking care of one’s body can go a long way in reducing stress levels overall. Think Digital Academy offers a wide variety of live social clubs that your children can join to learn new skills, take up a new hobby and make new friends. This is a great way to have fun beyond the curriculum.

Expert tips to help parents manage their stress levels

Many parents struggle with finding the right balance between work, home, and education. That’s why we’ve compiled some tips to help you manage your stress levels.

  • Take time for yourself. As a parent, getting caught up in caring for your children and schooling them at home is easy. However, it’s essential to take some time for yourself every day.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to ask friends or family for help. They can watch your kids while you take a break or even lend an ear if you need someone to talk to.
  • Find a support group. Other parents in your area are likely schooling their children online too. Finding a support group can give you much-needed social interaction with others going through the same thing.

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Bogus online schools or bogus reporting?

“To date, Umalusi has not accredited any online school to offer any of its qualifications. In the same vein, Umalusi is not aware of any such institution having been registered by any provincial education department,” Dr Rakometsi said.

In response to a statement given out by Dr Rakometsi, CEO of Umalusi, Think Digital Academy would like to set the record straight by providing readers with some clarity regarding the accreditation of online schools.

Think Digital Academy urges parents and readers, to consider the following factual statements:

The condemnation of online schools by Umalusi is unfair and has misconstrued the legal offering of registered Distance Education Providers such as Think Digital Academy and other online schools, who have accreditation by SACAI (fully accredited by Umalusi), one of the three exam boards in South Africa.

It is imperative to understand the complexities of accrediting online schools – “Umalusi is the only institution in South Africa that is legislatively mandated to issue certificates of learner achievement in respect of the National Senior Certificate (NSC). In South Africa, we have three examination bodies, registered and accredited by Umalusi. These bodies are the: IEB, SACAI and the DoE.”

About SACAI:

  • The South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI) is an assessment body that is allowed to set and mark exams for the NSC.
  • It is also, 100% aligned with CAPS and Grade 10-12 learners registered under SACAI, will also be issued with SACAI Statement of Results and NSC certificates that are accredited and issued by Umalusi.
  • This means that a learner can access the various levels of pass requirements for Higher Education such as university and college entry, on provision they have met the NSC requirements.
  • SACAI learners need to comply to the same rules and guidelines that apply for the DBE NSC and the IEB NSC.

Think Digital Academy urges parents to do their research before committing to registering their children with online schools and distance education providers, by ensuring that their perspective online school is in fact registered with SACAI or the IEB.

Think Digital Academy has been a registered NSC Institution with SACAI, (registration number 851107) since 2017.

Let’s look at the positive role of online schooling and the rise thereof:

This new era of online schooling is a positive solution for many children, all over South Africa. Online schools have provided a solution to South Africa’s unplaced learner crises in the public sector.

In-person and traditional online education takes very structured approaches — learners must fit in with institutions’ schedules for classes, deadlines, exams, often travelling long distances to get there. That works for many learners, but also excludes many more. Perhaps we should further consider the statistical outliers, the thousands of unplaced learners who have not been fortunate enough to find a space in one of South Africa’s traditional brick and mortar schools.

The education system needs to work for the average child, and the average child who has not been placed, should not be disadvantaged for not having the capacity to overcome gross inequalities and sheer injustice on the part of the state when it comes to education.

Therefore, lets rather place an emphasis on how registered online schools can be leveraged and positively used to accommodate the average child who could not be placed as well as the child who has not been able to reach their full potential due to:

  • an overcrowded classroom
  • the absence of personal guidance
  • the lack of a tailored learning programme that will suit the child’s educational needs in order to reach their full academic potential.

Flexible learning approaches that embrace active learning, can also unlock greater levels of engagement between learners and student success coaches, a holy grail for most educational institutions.

Let us not be discouraging of the registered distance education providers and online schools, but rather be encouraging of this new era of education and the powerful opportunities it brings with it.

Mental health awareness in children and why it’s important to prioritise it

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If silver linings exist from the pandemic or the current youth mental health crisis, it’s that awareness about the importance of supporting mental health is at an all-time high. A win for sure! But awareness is just the first step. Real change includes access to quality mental health services and support for everyone who needs them. We know we can’t do it alone and are calling on all our TDA family and to join us by increasing the love we show our children a little bit more every day!

Mental health is an essential aspect of our overall well-being and this holds especially true for children. A child’s mental health is crucial for their healthy development, learning, and socialisation. However, despite the importance of mental health, it is often overlooked or stigmatised, leading to negative outcomes for children. Therefore, in honour of Mental Health Awareness, let’s discuss why it’s important to prioritise mental health awareness in children.

Childhood mental health problems: prevalence and impact

Mental health problems among children are quite common. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), about one in six children aged 6-17 years, experience mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and behavioural disorders. Furthermore, mental health problems can have a significant short-term and long-term impact on children’s lives. These can include difficulty in socialising and making friends, poor academic performance, self-harm and even suicide.

Stigma and misconceptions: barriers to mental health awareness

Despite the prevalence and impact of mental health problems in children, stigma and misconceptions are still significant barriers to mental health awareness. Children and their families may avoid seeking help due to shame, fear of being labelled, or a lack of understanding about mental health problems. Additionally, there is a widespread belief that mental health issues are not real illnesses and that children will eventually outgrow them. Such beliefs can prevent early identification and treatment, leading to further complications.

The importance of mental health awareness in children

Mental health awareness in children is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps children and their families understand that mental health disorders are real and that seeking help is essential. It also reduces stigma and helps children feel less isolated and ashamed, making it easier to seek help. Secondly, mental health awareness can help with early identification and intervention, reducing the severity and long-term impact of mental health disorders. This, in turn, can lead to better academic, social and emotional outcomes for children. Finally, mental health awareness in children helps create a more supportive and inclusive environment that promotes overall well-being.

How can we promote mental health awareness in children?

There are several ways to promote mental health awareness in children. Firstly, we need to provide education and resources to parents, teachers and caregivers on identifying and addressing mental health disorders in children. This can include providing mental health screenings, counselling services, and training on how to support children with mental health disorders. Secondly, we need to raise awareness and reduce stigma through public campaigns, school programmes and community events. Finally, we need to prioritise mental health funding and research to better understand the root causes of mental health problems in children and develop effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Mental health awareness in children is crucial for their overall well-being and healthy development. However, stigma and misconceptions continue to prevent children and their families from seeking help. By promoting mental health awareness, we can reduce stigma, increase early identification and intervention and promote better academic, social and emotional outcomes for children. Therefore, let us prioritise mental health awareness in children and create a more supportive and inclusive environment for all.

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Extending the online schooling experience

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It is my contention / observation, from the wings of a long-time teaching career, that ‘true education’, in its ‘wholesome best’ should reach, even over-reach, into all aspects of the lived experience. Education should neither begin nor end with the school bell.

Parents / carers commit to optimise the benefits of school-going for their children. Some are able to extend those with their support and encouragement of various extra-mural activities and augment them with cultural opportunities. There are dashes from cricket practice to choir. Corrective strategies in reading, writing, extra-maths are added to the ever expanding ‘school run’.

The online experience is arguably far more dependent on parental activation and organisational support in order to provide the above range of exposure without the traditional school framework. Their input is impressively ever-present beyond the attendant demands on time and resources.

Without straying into simplistic generalisation, I think it is true to say that every parent wishes and works towards providing the ‘best possible’ range of educational opportunities for their child. Based on this well-validated assumption, one may conscientise parents to widen their paradigm of educational exposure for their children into experiential learning. The proposed goal is to weave in the ‘bigger picture’ of life around them. Integrate learning to include divergent views, nuanced language, rear-view historical insight, contact with a local baker, security vs protection mechanisms, understanding waste, influence of the built environment on the everyday; transport…

In short, never close the door on learning ~ at a traffic light, in Checkers, in an overcrowded bus, around the table, on the way to church, after a fight, talk about a billboard on the highway, walk through a museum, make / sell popcorn together, identify the birds in your garden, prepare a family quiz for Sunday evening, page through a newspaper, plant / monitor a fruit tree of choice, scrutinise a savings account, a telephonic chat with an auntie … the possibilities – opportunities – are endless! The benefits are unquestionable! The development of capacities for insight, reflection, tolerance, compassion, expanded knowledge horizons, persistence, critical thought, responsibility… the illusive ‘soft skills’ whose absence mars the ‘educatedness’ of even the top mark achievers!

It is worth remembering that life is best filled by learning as much as you can about as much as you can, taking pride in whatever you are doing, having empathy, sharing ideas, running, being enthusiastic, mountain climbing, learning to love! This doesn’t happen within the narrow confines of the classroom / digital learning arena / on the rugby field… ‘educatedness’ comes with an embrace of the whole of life!

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Infographic – Online education prepares you for the future

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As technology continues to rapidly advance and change the way we live, learn and work, it’s important for parents to prepare their children for the future of education.

The future of education will likely involve a greater use of technology and will place a greater emphasis on skills such as creativity, critical thinking and collaboration.

To help prepare children for this future, parents can take several steps such as fostering a love of learning, developing strong study skills, encouraging technology proficiency, fostering creativity and critical thinking, promoting collaboration and by modelling empathy to them. By taking these steps, parents can help their children develop the skills and mindset they need to succeed in the ever-changing world of education.

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A tribute to matric students everywhere – celebrating triumph over adversity

In this season of prizes for top achievements and scholarships, we salute all the students whose talents lie outside the classroom.

Parents, please take a few moments to congratulate the 2022 Academic Top Achievers as they head off to their well-earned celebrations. Then we ask that you return to your seats. We have a few special achievements left to acknowledge.

Let’s hear it for the average child

To the student who completes all the tasks, great and small, in his hardest subject and turns it in promptly, who studies diligently for tests and consults every additional help resource, who has never once read an online summary instead of the actual book and who nevertheless manages to earn no grade higher than a C: You have already aced the real tests. School is the only place in the world where you’re expected to excel at everything, and all at the same time. In real life, you’ll excel at what you do best and let others excel at what they do best. For the rest of your life, you will never again think of this C, but you’ll bring your character and your capacity for hard work to all your future endeavours.

While there are defined moments in the media everywhere for all students who excel beyond expectation, every single student who entered our virtual school doors, with their potential unknown, has finally arrived at the same destination to be celebrated by their friends, families and tutors.

As we digest the 2022 Matric results, listening to accolades for those who soar, our hearts are shining a light on the average kids who, like many of us, were waiting for their moment to shine.

We see you. We see your potential. We see your greatness.

We must of course, continue to honour those who defied the structural obstacles placed in their way. Many students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, overcame tremendous odds to not only write the final exams, but in some cases, to achieve exceptional results. They deserve their hard work to be recognised, their tenacity to be emulated and to be used to inspire those who are going through similar trials and tribulations.

It is so important to remember that life is not a contest, and the world is not an arena. Just by being here, unique among all others, offering contributions that no one else can give, you have already won the one prize that matters most.

In closing, we salute each and every Matriculant for their hard work and determination – congratulations on your results, and on behalf of all of us at Think Digital Academy, we wish you well for your future.

Infographic – Why students perform better in online schools

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Conventional schooling has been the norm for centuries. Now, the learning landscape has changed drastically.

Today, online learning is rapidly gaining traction across the globe, especially in South Africa. Online schooling, and online learning allows students to learn from the safety and comfort of their homes and, better yet, allows them to a large extent, work at their own pace too.

While the online learning model offers many benefits on paper, is it just as effective in practice? Let’s find out.

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How to kick-start 2023 on the right note: Advice from our support coaches

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2022 was a wonderful year. Our students impressed us with their academic and extracurricular accomplishments, their parents continued to provide unrelenting support to their children, and our online school achieved new accolades.

Before jumping into our new academic year, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on the previous year. In 2022, we collectively recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic and rebuilt ourselves. However, we also faced new socioeconomic, political and environmental obstacles.

As we step into 2023, it’s important to keep abreast of ground realities and remain optimistic at the same time. Here’s some collective advice for 2023 from a few of our Student Success Coaches at Think Digital Academy. How can you strengthen your academic performance in the upcoming year? Moreover, what’s the right way to be socially responsible in this critical year?

Keep reading. We’d love to engage in a healthy debate towards the end of the article; please share your thoughts with us!

Understand what’s happening in the world

2022 was a difficult year in many ways and a positive year in others. We faced a wide range of economic, political, environmental and social catastrophes.

At Think Digital Academy (TDA), we encourage our students to understand what’s happening in the world. As Carol Hanisch said, “The personal is political.” Our personal experiences aren’t isolated; they form the fabric of the larger society we live in.

As we understand the economic, political, social and environmental structures of the world, we’re able to take a step outside our circle of privilege and observe critical ground realities. This is extremely important. It helps us take equitable action and advocate for marginalised individuals and communities.

Understand the significance of political movements like the fight against crime, the fight against poverty and, the fight against climate change, economic disparities and other ground realities. This is the first step towards becoming a socially conscious and responsible citizen.

Create a new academic game plan

As you focus on your social growth, make some time for academic development as well. At TDA, our online Education Architects have planned the upcoming year by providing a “Termly Planner” for each Term, and each Grade, that details the lessons you could aim to cover during the academic term, to ensure a smooth, steady transition and consistent academic growth.

It’s time to reflect on your academic performance in the previous year.

Make a list of your accomplishments, strengths, weaknesses, skills and areas of improvement. Discuss the plan with your parents and/or tutors and get their input. Once you have a good grasp of where you stand and what needs to be done differently in 2023, it’s time to get to work!

Create a digital academic game plan. You can also use a physical calendar; however, a digital plan will be easier to edit and track. If you’re an FET, IGCSE or AS Level student, your academic plan should be SMART (specific, measurable, actionable, relevant and time-bound). This will help you systematically achieve your goals and secure top grades. If you’re having trouble creating a plan, feel free to consult your Student Success Coaches.

Make time for personal growth

Your personal growth is extremely important, especially as you step into a new year with a wide range of exciting new opportunities at your feet! Explore your interests, hobbies, pursuits and passions. Participate in competitions like Spelling Bee, Chess, debating, essay writing, and so on. Find a skill you would like to develop and join one of our live, online clubs. We have many to choose from – Art, Anime, Pilates, Yoga, History, Maths, Movement, Drama and many more. With over 15 clubs to choose from, there’s definitely something for everyone – explore at least one of them and develop a new skill.

Personal growth also includes ethical and moral development. Practice empathy, learn the importance of being responsible and treat people with respect and kindness.

Have a check-and-balance system in place

Procrastination and complacency are extremely common among students. You may set impressive new goals for 2023. However, as the year progresses, you may become a little less diligent.

Make sure you have a good check-and-balance system in place. If you become passive and stop checking your goals off the list, hold yourself accountable. You can ask an older friend, family member or tutor to help you out with this.

Consistency will ultimately help you ensure that 2023 is a successful academic year. There’s nothing wrong with taking breaks. However, make sure you don’t lose track of your goals entirely. If you’re looking for more advice for 2023 from your Student Success Coaches, we’re always here to help.

At TDA, we equip our students with the knowledge, skills and tools they need to succeed year in and year out. 2023 is a fresh start! Let’s make the most of it!

Explore the following resources to get started:

How to stay productive over the holidays

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As the festive season and school holidays are under way, our students are already well on their way to making memories with their friends and loved ones. While some are on vacation, others might still have weekend getaways, outdoor excursions, sporting activities and other adventures lined up.

We strongly encourage students to spend time with their loved ones over the break. As you enjoy the holidays, make sure you do so productively! What do we mean by this? In this article, we’ll discuss five ways to have a productive break.

1. Reflect on the year and set new goals

As you wave 2022 goodbye and make way for 2023, make sure you take some time to reflect on the year and set new goals. Was your academic performance up to par in 2022? Did you focus on your personal growth? Did you socialise with your friends? What about your extracurricular growth?

Analyse the year from every standpoint to determine whether you had a productive year. We also recommend creating a list of ways you can make 2023 even more productive. How can you improve your academic performance? Should you develop new skills? Our Clubs and Societies are a good place to acquire and learn new skills. Are there certain activities and hobbies you should explore? Do you want to start playing new sports?

Make a comprehensive list of everything that you want to achieve. While it should be thorough, it should also be realistic at the same time.

2. Organise your study space

Does your learning space need some TLC? At Think Digital Academy we encourage our students to pay close attention to their study space. You spend a good chunk of your day working through your online classes from this space. If it’s in disarray, you’ll struggle to have a productive learning experience.

A tidy, clean, minimalist and organised space will help you feel motivated and uplifted. If your study space isn’t up to the par, start a mini makeover! Clean it up, redo the space around your working desk if you have to, add some bursts of colour to the space, and accessorise it. As you breathe life into your study space, you’ll feel more invigorated.

Avoid going overboard. As you accessorise your space, avoid adding gadgets, or any other distractive elements to it. Once you spruce up your study station, you’ll see the difference for yourself.

3. Create a new schedule for the upcoming term

It’s time for a new term! As you enjoy the holiday festivities, take some time to create a schedule for the upcoming term. You should ideally do this before the New Year.

Based on your new lessons and timings, set up a robust schedule that helps you stay on track. Your Termly Planner will help you to break up your lessons into a schedule that works for you. You can opt for a digital calendar or create a physical schedule in a notebook or on a whiteboard in your room.

If you opt for a digital schedule, make sure you sync it across your devices (smartphone, desktop computer, laptop and tablet). This will help you access and edit your schedule whenever you want. It’s the best way to stay on top of everything in 2023!

4. Get an academic head start

You may shudder at the thought of being told to study over the holiday break. No, we won’t ask you to do that. However, we strongly recommend getting a head start.

Go over your curriculum for the upcoming term and review some of the chapters, topics, or subtopics that appear difficult. You can also watch a video or two to head a head start and begin a great term! Get a good grasp of the introductory concepts so you can breeze through the first few lessons.

At Think Digital Academy, we have comprehensive online learning tools. Your learner dashboard includes a wide range of educational resources, including videos, eBooks, past papers, worksheets, lesson activities and so much more.

Utilise these resources to learn the ropes. This little measure will go a long way in helping you feel prepared when working through your recorded lessons. Feel free to jot down any questions if you want. You can ask your online tutors for assistance and get any initial confusion you may have cleared up.

5. Listen to podcasts

If you don’t want to study over the holiday break, you don’t have to! If you want to enjoy your break, you have every right to. You earned it!

To keep productivity intact, listen to educational and motivational podcasts. Here are some great options:

  • Stuff You Should Know
  • Made to Thrive by Steve Stavs
  • TED Talks Daily
  • StarTalk with Neil deGrasse Tyson
  • Life Kit
  • History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps
  • Entrepreneurial Thought Leaders
  • Brain Science
  • Grammar Girl
  • Stuff to Blow Your Mind
  • Startup Nation
  • 60 Seconds Health
  • 60 Seconds Science
  • Astronomy 161
  • The Infinite Monkey Cage

If you’re interested in switching from conventional schooling to online schooling, Think Digital Academy should be your top choice. Established in 2017, our school has been providing a quality online education to students for over 6 years.

We’re excited to have you on board! Let’s start securing a better, brighter future for your children.

Sign up to explore our FREE two week trial.

Top 4 reasons why parents school their children online

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According to a recent study, the number of students being schooled online has doubled in the last decade. Overall, if current national growth in online schooling continues as many educational experts expect, we could see those figures growing at an accelerated rate over the next 5 years. This has many asking the question, ‘Why do parents choose to home-school or school their children online?”.

To answer that question, the team of online school experts at Think Digital Academy, has put together the top 4 reasons why parents decide to home-school or school their children online. Let’s take a look:

Negative school environment

Sometimes the educational environment our children are exposed to in traditional schools isn’t as positive as we would like. With bullying, unprofessional instructors and negligent headmasters, today’s students face a lot of stress. With online schooling, the learning environment is positive and controlled by the parent.

Higher quality education

Today’s schools are often overcrowded and that can lead to many students not receiving a quality education. Teachers are overloaded with paperwork and they can get burned out very easily. With online schooling, children get a higher quality education because all the lessons are pre-recorded and taught by highly qualified subject matter experts. Parents have more control over what their children are learning and they recognise the valuable skills that their children are taught, which better prepare them for university.

Support a high-performance athlete or learning disabled child

Children with booming sporting or cultural careers, or children with learning disabilities or physical handicaps don’t typically thrive in public schools. Many schools have very limited resources and time when it comes to children with special needs. This makes an online school environment that much more effective for children with learning disabilities or physical handicaps, giving them more opportunities to learn and grow.

Improved social interactions

While many parents believe the myth that children who are schooled online aren’t as socially interactive as students who attend a traditional school, it is just the opposite. Online schooled children develop much more advanced social skills than public school students. Online schooling offers less bullying and peer pressure.

Online schooling improves both the emotional and psychological development of children and strengthens family connections with their siblings. Children gain a greater sense of awareness of the world around them, while developing a stronger sense of civic responsibility.

Contact Think Digital Academy

To learn more about the importance of online schooling and how an independent online school can provide your child with a much better education, contact us on WhatsApp, email or give us a call.

Sign up to explore our FREE two week trial.

How to prepare for the online schooling transition: A guide for parents

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There’s no such thing as too much research

The conventional to online schooling transition shouldn’t be taken lightly. This is a big decision. As a parent, invest time, energy and effort into finalising things. There’s no such thing as too much research.

We recommend taking some time to understand how online learning will benefit your child. Which online schooling features should you look for in an institution? Moreover, how will this transition affect you as a parent?

Many parents make the mistake of doing minimal research and diving head-first into this transition. Avoid making this mistake. Prepare yourself and gain more insight into making the switch. This will help you choose the right institution and begin this journey on a good note.

Use this checklist during the research process:

1. What are the benefits of switching to online learning?

Flexibility – working at your own pace, safety, convenience, the ability to tailor your child’s learning according to their needs, strengths and weaknesses, etc.

2. Which online school is right for my children?

Prioritise experience and faculty expertise. The institution should have at least 5 years of experience and a qualified, experienced, skilled, trained and empathetic faculty. They should also use a recognised, accredited and well-rounded curriculum. Additionally, they must equip students with top-notch resources and tools.

3. Can I resume work/chores while my child attends online school?

The answer to this question is imperative. Choose an online school that completely takes the reins so that you, as a parent, don’t have to intervene continuously. At Think Digital Academy, you can rest assured knowing that we teach, while you parent. You should be able to resume work/chores without being required to check in on your child. To make this task easier, we’ve designed a parent tool that enables you to monitor your child’s progress easily and effortlessly. Our weekly activity reports are emailed directly to your inbox every Monday morning. This report details your child’s activity on the system and tracks their progress. All you need to do is check that they’re making positive progress. Many institutions don’t offer parental leeway, so dig deeper and find one that does.

Create two schedules: one for your child and one for yourself

As you switch to online schooling, you should have scheduling down to a tee: both for your child and yourself. Start by creating a balanced schedule for your child. Once their pre-recorded lessons end for the day, they should enjoy a handful of activities that promote personal and social growth.

Allocate some time for sports, skill-building, extracurricular activities, hobbies, excursions, socialisation with friends and/or family and so on. At Think Digital, we’ve created an opportunity for students to join a selection of live, virtual Clubs and Societies to ensure that skill-building continues even outside the online learning environment. This will help your child have an active learning experience following their classes.

Similarly, set up a schedule for yourself. Break your day into slots. Fit work and leisure into these slots. Your day should already be planned out in advance, so that you don’t feel rushed and panicked every day.

A streamlined schedule will help you breeze through work, run errands, catch up with friends/family, spend quality time with your children, help them with their schoolwork/revision, take some time out for yourself, etc.

The online schooling transition becomes very simple and manageable when everything is seamlessly and skilfully planned in advance. Do this and the first few weeks will become much easier.

Speak with the personnel beforehand

At Think Digital Academy, we help parents prepare for the transition to online schooling. Our Student Success Coaches will walk you through what you should expect. A virtual dashboard tour is offered beforehand which will give you a good glimpse into what you can expect when you enter your “online campus”. They’ll also discuss common mistakes parents often make during the first few months of the switch. As you get a glimpse of how the first few weeks will pan out, you can prepare accordingly.

We also recommend reaching out to other parents who have already switched to the online schooling model. The longer it has been, the better! They’ll offer excellent guidance and share individualised tips based on their unique experiences.

If you still feel unprepared, online forums are an excellent resource.

If you have any unique questions or concerns, pop one of our friendly Success Coaches a WhatsApp +27 071 408 4677. Our online support community is very active, so you can rest assured that you’ll get the support you seek.

Another great option for if you recently made the switch and want to find support in your new online community, is to join various Facebook groups. As you interact with other parents, you’ll understand how they navigate the switch in a way that’s effective and efficient for them.

Ready to make the switch to online schooling for your children? At Think Digital Academy, we offer the South African CAPS, British International and American GED curricula to students across the globe. As South Africa’s first, favourite and 2x award-winning online school, we’re trusted by thousands of parents.

With 6+ years of experience, we’re committed to helping students excel. By providing quality online schooling options for working parents, we help parents heave a big sigh of relief when it comes to their children’s education. Whether you’re working from home, rushing to the office in the morning, or running errands all day, you can rest assured that your children will receive a quality education from home.

Thank you for trusting us; we look forward to giving your children the support, tools, and guidance they need to succeed.

Explore our FREE two week trial and see for yourself.

How online schooling can help children with anxiety

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More children than ever before are suffering from anxiety and mental health disorders, and this can put them at a severe disadvantage in the schooling system. While many children suffer from occasional shyness when presented with a new situation, some young people suffer from overwhelming and persistent fear when in social situations, including in the classroom.

This can result in a host of problems that can negatively impact a child’s academic attainment.

Children and adolescents with anxiety disorders struggle to focus, and experience a fear of attending school. They may also experience other physical symptoms associated with their condition including rapid breathing, restlessness, stomach aches and headaches. If your child is a sufferer, it may be very distressing to have to send them to school every day knowing how much they are struggling.

Fortunately for both children and parents alike, online schooling, which can be done from anywhere, presents an excellent alternative education provision.

How does online schooling help anxious children?

Online schools benefit children suffering from anxiety in several ways. Children can make progress at their own pace, in their favourite place, learning in an environment that is free from any distractions or problematic behaviour. While virtual classrooms give anxious youngsters social interaction, which is essential, even for children with anxiety, the experience is considerably less stressful than in-person teaching.

Anxious students can benefit from a more personalised and tailored learning programme, building up their confidence and helping them to catch up with anything that they have missed in their brick and mortar school.

Can my child do online schooling from home?

Some parents wonder whether taking their child out of their school and teaching them themselves at home is the answer when they suffer from anxiety. While this may work for the youngest children, it becomes considerably more problematic when dealing with older children. Parents rarely have the knowledge or skill to teach all subjects at higher levels such as Grade 10 – 12 or IGCSE – AS levels.

The advantage of schooling them online with Think Digital Academy is that parents do not need to take the burden and responsibility of teaching their children themselves. The lessons are all recorded by qualified teachers who are masters in their subjects. This means that parents can do just that, parent, and still feel at ease that their children are being taught by subject matter experts.

Enrolment at an online school such as Think Digital Academy, ensures that young people who are working towards their major exams can benefit from outstanding teaching from skilled and qualified teachers so that they can receive school leaving certificates that stand them in good stead to achieve their future goals.

Fitting learning around treatment

If your child suffers from severe anxiety they may need professional treatment and therapy. While undergoing this treatment process, children must be in a supportive and safe environment where they can focus on recovery. They must, however, also continue studying so that they don’t miss out on vital learning time.

Online schooling fits seamlessly around treatment so that students receiving help for their anxiety can continue to learn, work towards their qualifications and make progress so that they can return to conventional education in the future should they wish to do so.

Choosing an online school

If you’re wondering how to choose an online school for your anxious child, contact Think Digital Academy to find out more about how South Africa’s first, favourite and award winning online school can benefit your child.

Explore our FREE two week trial and see for yourself.

Infographic – How to support your introverted child’s education

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Introverted kids have an inner world that is alive and present for them. They engage with the deeper aspects of life.

Online education can benefit introverts who find in person school overwhelming. It also allows you to work closely with your child to develop a personalised education plan, to give them the best online education (British, South African or American curricula).

Here are some tips on how to support your introverted child’s education.

Infographic on how to support your introverted child's education

Free trial

Why not try our online learning environment by enroling for our free 14 day trial.

A time management guide for first-time online schoolers

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If you recently started online schooling, congratulations! Making the switch from conventional to online schooling isn’t easy for most parents and students. They feel hesitant about switching from the only schooling model they’ve ever known: conventional learning.

In 2022, however, online learning is rapidly gaining traction for its efficacy. Students who attend some of the most prestigious online schools, secure top grades and enjoy a healthy school-life balance.

As a first-time online learner, make sure you start building three critical soft skills: time management, responsibility and organisation. In this article, we’ll focus on the first skill. Our education specialists will talk you through three steps to manage your time exceptionally well as you attend school online. Let’s get straight into the juicy stuff!

Plan ahead

“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail” — Benjamin Franklin

Successful online schooling is contingent on excellent planning. If you’re not too fond of planning, you’ll have to develop this skill. Planning ahead goes a long way in helping students keep their studies, extracurricular life, social life and personal life on track. We recommend downloading an academic planning app on your phone. Sync it across your tablet, laptop and computer to ensure easy, quick access. Some of our favourite school planning tools and apps are: MyHomework, iStudies, Routine Planner and School Planner.

Start planning! Lay out your schedule in advance. We recommend planning at least a week in advance. Of course, you’ll make changes along the way. However, planning ahead will help you get a good foundation and add some basic structure to your day. This is a great way to avoid wasting time and procrastinating. You’re less likely to veer off track when you have a set of tasks lined up for the day. Use your Termly Planner to assist in planning your weeks efficiently.

Most apps have an accountability feature. This lets you check off chores for the day. If there are delays or you can’t check off certain tasks, your streak will be affected. Setting up a schedule is half the battle. Sticking to it is the real legwork! You may struggle in the first few days. During this period, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Student Success Coaches for some extra encouragement and assistance.

At Think Digital Academy, we have a team of MA/MSc/PhD qualified subject matter experts to deliver learning content in the most engaging and interesting ways. As you reach out to your online tutors or Success Coaches, you’ll get the guidance, support, and insight you need to follow your schedule more closely and avoid setbacks. Remember, help is right around the corner. As long as you ask for it, it will be provided. Make the most of it!

Minimise distractions in your space

It’s 2022. We’re bombarded with one distraction after the other: Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, Fortnite, etc. The list goes on. As an online student, make sure you take control and reduce as many distractions as possible. This isn’t easy. However, it’s definitely doable. Start with physical distractions.

If you’re viewing your classes in your bedroom, make sure your space doesn’t include any distractions you’d feel compelled to reach for mid-lesson. The best approach is to set up your study station elsewhere.

We recommend setting up a study room. You can control what goes in this room, which is slightly tricky to achieve when you attend online school in your bedroom. You can’t possibly get rid of every distraction from your bedroom. However, your study space should be focused and minimal for the most part.

Make sure there are no gadgets, games, or non-academic books in sight (novels, etc.). Your study space should only include school-related items (books, stationery, essentials for lesson activities, etc.). As you reduce distractions, you’ll notice an increase in your overall focus and productivity levels.

Switch to a reputable online school

Time management is a difficult skill to master on your own, especially if you’re a young student. At Think Digital Academy we provide you with some great time management tools such as a Termly Planner (which provides a breakdown of all the lessons that should be completed each term) to help students hone their skills. Switching to a reputable online school is a great way to get help with a skill that you’re struggling to develop independently.

We also provide our students with access to a vast online library of educational resources such as videos, readers, textbooks, study guides, worksheets, activities and more.

Keeping the lessons fun and engaging boosts knowledge absorption and retention, and performance.

If you’re ready to start making the switch, explore our FREE two week trial.

It’s time to start securing a better, brighter future.