Introduction
The use of education technology (EdTech) is increasingly becoming the norm within the education sector, particularly in enhancing the crucial relationship between learners, teachers and content. Recognising that learners come with backlogs from previous grades, Zenex understands that EdTech has the potential to provide learners with the support they need to close gaps in foundational knowledge through offering individualised learning pathways and opportunities for practice.
Zenex is piloting three initiatives to address English and Mathematics backlogs in Grade 4, using EdTech solutions to improve learner performance in these subjects. The platforms are designed to allow learners to practice grade level content as well as foundational concepts. Two of the Projects focus on Grade 4 mathematics and the third focuses on Grade 4 English. These Projects draw on strong pedagogical approaches, aligned with the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS) and the Annual Teaching Plans (ATPs). The interventions are designed to accommodate the competency levels of individual learners while building teacher capacity to integrate technology into classroom practice.
Project Overviews
The Reflective Learning Foundation (RLF) is addressing English backlogs in the Cape Winelands, Western Cape, through a two-year Project (2025–2026) in 20 schools. Grade 4 learners use two complementary software tools: Graphogame, which develops phonics, and Reflective Learning, which builds fluency and comprehension. Learners participate for one hour per week during English lessons, supported by community-based facilitators trained in both software use and session delivery. The Project focuses on closing learning gaps while building grade-ready competence.
In Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal, the Edutech Institute is using the Mindspark programme to support Grade 4 learners with Mathematics content in 20 schools. Learners engage with the software for two hours per week, supported by facilitators who dedicate 20 hours weekly to each school. Mindspark offers diagnostic assessments, data-driven interventions, bilingual learning pathways, and gamified rewards. Similarly, JET Education Services is running a two-year Project in Central Johannesburg using the Eduten software, which provides over 200,000 problems and detailed feedback. Learners are motivated through points, badges, and leaderboards that encourage continuous progress.
All three Projects will focus on direct learner support but will include capacity building for teachers
Objectives
The overarching goal of these Projects is to mitigate learning backlogs in English and Mathematics at Grade 4 by using EdTech. By filling content knowledge gaps early, learners are better equipped to meet the increasing curriculum demands of higher grades.
Outcomes
The Projects offer several key benefits:
- precise and targeted interventions for each learner using data analysis;
- enabling teachers to leverage EdTech solutions to address misunderstood content;
- providing teachers with insights into learner weaknesses and progress, enabling customised teaching;
- more effective learning through instant, detailed feedback that helps learners correct errors immediately; and
- continuous learner improvement, ensuring mastery of concepts previously found difficult.
Conclusion
The EdTech Projects align with the Zenex Foundation’s strategy of working in language and Mathematics in the early grades to support closing gaps in foundational knowledge. By integrating EdTech into classrooms, these initiatives explore innovative pathways for improving learner outcomes, with the potential for wider application in the South African schooling system.