Math on MXit: using MXit as a medium for mathematics education

Abstract

It is common cause that the average mathematics mark among high school learners in South Africa has declined. Traditional “math clubs” and “math extra lessons” often do not work because of a number of reasons including 1) it being “uncool” to be seen going to math club 2) the stigma of going to extra lessons 3) lack of suitable tutors 4) suitable tutors are employed full time and are not available in the afternoon 5) learners are not available to return to school in the evenings for meetings 6) other scheduling conflicts between learner and tutor (assuming a tutor could be found) and 7) costs of extra lessons. This paper examines a math club or math help system which is being run via MXit – the popular instant messaging system running on cell phones and extremely popular with teenagers. Learners use MXit and contact the tutor during specified time periods. The tutor, in his or her office using a traditional computer and keyboard, can handle queries from many learners. The learners remain anonymous and are not aware of the other learners using the system.