The iBox Technology-Enabled Teaching and Learning in Pre- and Post-COVID Ghana

Prior to Covid-19, some young private Ghanaian technologists, inspired by COL’s APTUS dongle, undertook a project toward solving the high cost of internet connectivity and the challenges related to equity, access, quality and gender. Their research produced an offline system called the iBox along with a corresponding online iCampusgh.com for learners, teachers, parents and school managers. It was adopted in 2014 by Ghana’s Ministry of Education through the Centre for National Distance Learning and Open Schooling (CENDLOS). Appropriate e-content was also developed by selected teachers. The product became a national solution during the Lockdown. // The system offers lessons in text, quiz, video, audio and laboratory simulation formats. Its unique learner management system (LMS) generates individualized assessment report sheet along with other support features on a dashboard. It supports learning at one’s own pace, is gender sensitive and is convenient for some persons with disabilities (PWD). // This paper considers how adapted and localized technologies can help bridge the digital divide in lower income communities, using the case of the iBox system. It explores the spirit of collaboration within the Pan-Commonwealth education in areas of technology, pedagogy and training.