KALEIDOPRAX | We empower South Africans to excel in professional environments where English is the language of business
THE GOOD WORK FOUNDATION | A non-profit organisation dedicated to transforming rural communities in Africa
In 2023, Kaleidoprax had the privilege of introducing Bite-size English to the Good Work Foundation. We’re proud to be part of their mission to empower young minds by providing affordable and targeted education support structures.
The Good Work Foundation is a non-profit pioneering a learning ecosystem for rural Africa using a unique digital approach. Their objective aligns with Kaleidoprax’s goal of producing competent individuals who can add value to the workplace. They accomplish this through the Bridging Year Academy Programme, a year-long course with seven streams that aim to “bridge the gap” between what young people have learnt in high school and what they need to know in the 21st-century workplace, universities or colleges, or as aspiring entrepreneurs.
The Kaleidoprax Bite-size English modules provided the cornerstone of their English stream. It is an online learning programme for second-language adults who want to improve their everyday English and move beyond social expectations to meet workplace demands.
2023 in Summary
What Sets Bite-size English Apart
01 | Comprehensive Language Skills
Bite-size English focuses on improving listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills – a holistic approach to English language proficiency.
02 | Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
Our program goes beyond language skills, stimulating critical thinking and problem-solving abilities for success in all endeavours.
03| Digital Skills Confidence
In today’s digital age, confidence in digital skills is essential. Bite-size English enhances digital literacy, ensuring participants are well-equipped for the modern world.
We offer 4 learning modules, graded according to outcomes expected of mother tongue use. The programme allows for multiple entry and exit points.
Mapping of Bite-size English modules to English mother tongue outcomes per formal years of education
The purple bar graph reflects the literacy profile of South Africans from 2018-2022
Upon completing Bite-size English, the results indicated that the program had successfully achieved its objectives. Based on the analysis, most participants showed upward growth in literacy levels.
We Appreciated the Language Coaches’ Observations
01 | Dynamic Learning and Flexibility in the Bite-size English Program
Feedback highlighted a dynamic learning environment, with participants keen to access Bite-size English week after week. Learners valued the program’s flexibility, allowing them to learn at their own pace and fostering a pressure-free experience. The Coaches observed positive engagement, particularly with the self-study methodology.
Learners were able to navigate, understand, and browse through the system independently early on. Coaches and learners appreciated the inclusion of different levels in the program, effectively meeting learners in the same class at their proficiency levels.
02 | Structured Flexibility and Achieving Milestones in the ‘Perfect Race’
We proposed the concept of ‘structured flexibility’ by establishing monthly learning milestones. Most, if not all, of the learners completed the program within the designated timeframe. The concept of a ‘Perfect Race’ was effectively implemented.
Coaches reported that the classroom remained focused and under control during sessions. No learner was left behind. The program promoted an inclusive learning environment.
03 | Observed Student Behaviour Changes
Coaches reported observable changes in student behaviour, including collaborative learning, improved digital skills, and proactive engagement. Learners demonstrated independence, making decisions about their progress, and even conducting online research on topics and grammar guides. Participants expressed satisfaction and increased confidence upon successful completion of tasks.
Coaches reported noticeable improvement in students’ written tasks, with benefits extending to other curriculum streams. Improved communications were evident in emails over the year.
The positive feedback from coaches underscores the success of Bite-size English in creating an inclusive, flexible, and effective learning environment.
Challenges and Lessons Learnt
We learned valuable lessons from the challenges we faced with our first large group of learners, leading to strategic improvements.
Recommendations Include
- More standardised information through short videos and audio recordings
- More stringent measures for writing activities
- Improved systems for handling incorrect answers and retry attempts
We are committed to refining the programme for enhanced effectiveness. Moving forward, we plan to engage resources powered by AI to improve the development of individual writing skills.
We also hope to focus more on conversation development by introducing an integrated board game (Conversation Catalyst) to enable and encourage language immersion.
Our experience is the blueprint for refining and extending the Bite-size English programme in the upcoming learning year.
Our dedication to continuous improvement and the positive impact observed provide a strong foundation for future successes in English language development at the Good Work Foundation.
Kaleidoprax thanks the Good Work Foundation for the opportunity to help Bridging Year Academy learners improve their English, develop critical thinking skills, and practice digital skills. The journey continues with our dedication to excellence in improving English literacy proficiency.
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