IT Education and Training – Students 

We support all students to use technology confidently so they can focus on learning rather than the tools. Students are expected to work competently on a computer to prepare assignments and reports, and to use the learning management system Amathuba (Brightspace), access course materials, submit assessments, participate in discussions, and sit online tests. 

 

First-year Digital Literacies Programme 

  • Orientation Week assessment: All first-year students complete a compulsory online competency assessment to determine their information and digital literacy needs. The assessment covers reading and interpreting digital media, creating and editing digital content, and finding, evaluating, and applying information from online sources. 

  • Targeted support: Based on results, students are placed into appropriate support streams. Those with limited experience complete an intensive basics course during Orientation Week to prepare for the first semester. 

  • Semester workshops: During the first semester, we address common skills gaps with short, practical sessions (e.g., Social Media, ePortfolios, Microsoft 365). Some sessions, such as Amathuba orientation, are compulsory for all students. 

  • Semester 2 focus: We develop presentation skills and Quantitative Literacy using Excel, in collaboration with the Numeracy Centre. 

 

Platforms and day-to-day use 

Students routinely use Amathuba and approved cloud tools to access announcements and resources, submit coursework, communicate with peers and lecturers, and manage online assessments. The shift to technology-enhanced learning has made these competencies essential across the curriculum. 

 

Postgraduate training 

We also provide tailored technology training for postgraduate diplomas and master’s students. Sessions cover Amathuba, core computer skills, and key UCT online systems. Where programmes require extended support, we offer flexible options such as Saturday sessions to accommodate timetables. 

 

Additional IT support 

UCT’s central IT services (ICTS) provide further student support and services. For more information, please refer to their website - ICTS Training information sessions | Information and Communication Technology Services.