Learning for Development in the Context of South Africa: Considerations for Open Education Resources in Improving Higher Education Outcomes

Abstract

Education is at the core of South Africa’s national development. The National Development Plan recognizes the potential of education to transform individuals and drive attainment of other development goals. The country’s higher education system is characterized by low participation and high attrition. This presents challenges for attainment of targets set by the NDP. A number of Open Education Resources initiatives implemented around the world have shown that when combined with Open Educational Practices, such approaches have potential to address some of the challenges facing the South African higher education Sector. This paper explores these initiatives and elements that would need to be considered to ensure an environment that is conducive to their sustainable adoption.