New Perspectives in Science Education

Edition 13

Accepted Abstracts

4th Industrial Revolution: Friend or Foe?

Fatima Fernandes, University of South Africa (South Africa)

Adekunle Oke, Robert Gordon University (United Kingdom)

Abstract

The recent diffusion and rapid advancement in technological innovations question the mannerisms of the way we live, work and identify with each other. It should be noted that major societal changes and opportunities are experienced by previous industrial revolutions, however the present transformation is one of a kind as far as the immense speed with the new concepts and technology. The unrestrictive possibilities of having billions of individuals connected by digital technology ascending to unprecedented handling power, stockpiling capacities and learning knowledge access leave no void but to embrace and channel the resources both human and natural, by integrating virtual and reality. The disruptive technology often labelled as the fourth industrial revolution is most likely to have major effects on education including the workforce. This has not silent Africa as the factious partitions are being ripped vigorously, the tale of the “dark continent” is being challenged and the youth is vibrant and ready. The present research is designed to explore the readiness of Africa for the 4th Industrial Revolution by exploring the perspectives of major stakeholders in education sector. It will further identify the effects of technology on students learning experience including the transformation of workplace considering the lack of sufficient knowledge among the older generation in managing this hyper-connected, ambitious demographic.To achieve the overarching goal of this research, key stakeholders, within the South African education sector, that can provide relevant information will be recruited for their participations in semi-structured qualitative interviews. The findings will enhance theory and practice of student-placement support, therefore contributing to limited literature on student placement support in South Africa. Based on the findings of this research, the fundamental question whether the much anticipated 4th Industrial Revolution is a Friend or Foe is expected to be addressed.

Keywords: 4th Industrial Revolution; Millennials; workforce;

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