Future-Ready Educators: Highlights from CTU’s Technology Training Sessions in July 2024
As the educational landscape continues to evolve, it is essential that teachers not only adapt to these changes but also fully embrace technology as a key tool for effective teaching. In the post-pandemic world, incorporating technology into education is no longer just an option, but a necessity. In response to the growing need for technology integration in education, CTU Training Solutions introduced the “Teaching with Technology” initiative. This initiative offers a series of free training sessions aimed at providing educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively utilise the latest technological advancements. The customised training programmes go beyond traditional methods, focusing on equipping teachers with the expertise needed to seamlessly incorporate technology into their teaching practices. In July 2024, CTU Training Solutions held several successful training sessions, including Microsoft Word & PowerPoint, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Teams, and Microsoft Power BI, with more than 470 attendees on campus and online nationwide. The feedback from participating teachers has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the impact and value of these training sessions. We are thrilled with the success of the July training sessions and the positive impact they have had on educators across the country. As we continue to support the professional development of teachers, we remain committed to providing high-quality training that meets the demands of modern education. Stay tuned for future sessions and opportunities to enhance your teaching skills with CTU Training Solutions. Together, we can create a brighter future for our teachers, students, and the education community.
The Power of Mind Maps in Visual Learning
Introduction to Visual Learning and Mind Maps Every student has a unique way of processing and retaining information. While some may thrive on audial cues or hands-on activities, visual learners benefit from seeing and picturing information. One of the most powerful tools for these learners is the mind map, a visual representation of information structured around a central idea. The History of Mind Mapping While mind mapping might seem like a modern study technique, its roots stretch far back into history. Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, used diagrams and graphical representations to organise information and visualise relationships between different concepts. Philosopher Porphyry of Tyros, in the 3rd century, used a tree-like structure to represent Aristotle’s classifications. Fast forward to the 20th century, and the term “mind map” was popularised by British psychologist Tony Buzan. He introduced the concept in the 1970’s as a way to help students learn more effectively. According to Buzan, the nonlinear nature of mind mapping mirrors the brain’s own way of thinking and processing information. Thus, by structuring data visually, learners can tap into their brain’s natural inclination for association and creativity. How to Create a Mind Map Creating a mind map is an organic process that evolves as you dive deeper into the material. Here’s a step-by-step guide: Start with a Central Idea: This is the main topic or concept you’re studying. Write or draw it in the center of your page or canvas. Add Major Subtopics: Think of these as the primary branches coming out from your central idea. These could be chapters in a textbook, phases of a process, or any major categorical breakdown of your central idea. Expand with Sub-points: From your major subtopics, draw smaller branches that represent the details or sub-points. Continue breaking these down as necessary. Use Colour and Images: Colour-code different branches or topics. Adding small doodles or symbols can make the information more memorable. Using Colour, Symbols, and Images Effectively Harnessing the power of colour and imagery can enhance memory retention. For instance: Colours: They can represent categories, importance, or emotions. Using a consistent color scheme can help your brain associate information faster. Symbols: Icons like arrows for processes, stars for important points, or question marks for queries can add clarity. Images: A single image can replace a lot of text. If a topic reminds you of a certain image, sketch it. It’ll make recalling details easier. Digital Tools for Mind Mapping While traditional pen-and-paper mind mapping is effective, there are numerous digital tools that can add layers of interactivity and flexibility. Tools like XMind, MindMeister, and Biggerplate offer features like easy restructuring, linking to external resources, and collaboration, making it easier to refine and share your maps. Examples Sophia, a Grade 11 student, struggled with history dates and events. After using mind maps, she could visually trace timelines and associate events with images, improving her scores dramatically. Mark, preparing for his Matric exams, used digital mind mapping tools to create interactive revision guides, linking out to video lectures and articles, making his study sessions more engaging. Conclusion: Embracing the Visual Study Mind maps are more than just a study tool; they’re a reflection of your understanding, a visual journey through a topic. By visualising connections, emphasising relationships, and adding a burst of creativity, you’re not just studying; you’re creating a knowledge artwork. So, the next time you’re daunted by a chunk of text or a complex topic, grab some colours, spread out a canvas, and let your thoughts flow into a map. Your brain will thank you for it!
Active Recall: The Game-Changer in Retaining Information
Introduction to Active Recall As exams loom closer, students often find themselves buried under piles of notes, textbooks, and highlighters. But how effective is this traditional method of studying? Enter ‘Active Recall,’ a proven strategy that’s transforming the way students retain and recall information. Why Traditional Study Methods Fall Short For years, the go-to method for many students has been to read through notes, underline or highlight them, and then read them again. It feels comfortable and familiar. However, merely reading over notes is a passive form of studying. While it might help in the short term, it’s not the most efficient way to commit information to long-term memory. The reason? Our brains tend to retain information better when actively challenged. How to Practice Active Recall Flashcards: A time-tested method. Write a question or keyword on one side and the answer or definition on the other. Regularly test yourself, trying to recall the answer before flipping the card. Teaching Others: Pretend you’re the teacher and explain a topic to someone else. This not only tests your understanding but helps reinforce concepts. Self-quizzing: Instead of just reading your notes, turn them into questions. Later, attempt to answer these questions without referring back. Benefits and Results The beauty of active recall is that it reinforces your memory retrieval. Every time you actively try to recall something, the neural pathway to that piece of information in your brain strengthens. Studies have shown that students who use active recall perform significantly better in exams than those who don’t. Conclusion: Making Active Recall a Habit Active recall might feel challenging initially, especially when you can’t remember an answer. However, it’s in this struggle that learning happens. Gradually, as you practice, it will become a fundamental part of your study routine. By making active recall a habit, you’ll not only prepare yourself better for exams but also equip yourself with a lifelong learning skill. Engage with Us: Have you tried active recall before? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! Let’s learn and grow together.
Azure Skills Development: CTU & Microsoft is Paving the Way for Youth in Tech
In a strategic collaboration with Microsoft, CTU Training Solutions proudly launched the Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Skills for Socio-Economic Development Project. This initiative extended our ongoing efforts under the Microsoft 365 Skills Project, training an additional 50 learners in critical Microsoft Azure Infrastructure skills. From June 20 to July 15, 2024, this programme aimed to significantly reduce the youth unemployment rate by equipping participants with in-demand technology skills, enhancing their employability across Gauteng and Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa. The project targeted key areas in cloud technology, aiming to: Equip participants with a robust understanding of Microsoft Azure fundamentals and administration. Enhance job readiness, preparing youth for high-demand roles in the burgeoning tech sector. Comprehensive Microsoft Azure Training Modules Participants engaged in several comprehensive modules, including: AZ-900 Microsoft Azure Fundamentals: Participants learned about cloud concepts, core Azure services, and security measures. AZ-104 Microsoft Azure Administrator: This module covered the management, implementation, and monitoring of Azure environments. AZ-1004 Deploy and Configure Azure Monitor: Learners gained skills in optimizing application performance through Azure Monitor. Innovative Training Delivery The training was delivered across four CTU campuses: Boksburg Durban Pretoria Roodepoort A hybrid approach blended classroom sessions with virtual training, facilitated by Microsoft Certified Trainers (MCTs). This format ensured participants could benefit from both theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on experience. Outstanding Training Outcomes The initiative was a resounding success, with all participants striving to earn Microsoft Learn badges to demonstrate their newly acquired skills. Key achievements included: Badges Earned: Full attainment of AZ-900, AZ-104, and AZ-1004 badges by all participants. Exam Success: The majority of learners passed their Microsoft certification exams on the first attempt, showcasing the high quality of training provided. Learner Feedback and Impact Participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, emphasising the practical relevance and effectiveness of the training. Many noted the hands-on approach and the direct applicability of the skills learned to their career paths. A Step Forward for Socio-Economic Development The Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Skills Project marks a significant milestone in CTU Training Solutions’ commitment to social upliftment through education. By providing young South Africans with essential skills in cloud technologies, this project not only enhances individual career prospects but also contributes to the broader economic development of the region, preparing a skilled workforce to meet the demands of the digital economy. This initiative underlines CTU’s dedication to empowering the youth and strengthening South Africa’s tech industry through quality education and strategic partnerships.
CTU Students Shine at Microsoft’s “Everyone Can Code” Event
In an inspiring initiative to foster inclusivity in technology, CTU Training Solutions students participated in Microsoft’s “Everyone Can Code” online event held on the 14th and 15th of May 2024. This event, spearheaded by Martha Splitthoff, aimed to provide underrepresented groups, including women and genderqueer individuals, with insights into the world of programming and technology. Empowering Experiences: Student Perspectives The event was a resounding success, with CTU students gaining hands-on experience in coding and technology tools. A total of 86 students from the Faculty of IT – School of Programming participated: 41 from the Programming Foundation course (17 from Potchefstroom Campus, 9 from Polokwane Campus, and 21 from Gqeberha Campus) and 45 from Software Development (20 from Roodepoort and Menlyn Campus, 8 from Stellenbosch Campus, and 16 from Boksburg and Polokwane Campus). We spoke to three of our enthusiastic Software Development students to hear about their experiences. Boitumelo Maluleke shared, “I just wanted to hear real tech professionals’ feedback on the world in tech. I enjoyed the advisory portion.” Boitumelo was particularly thrilled with the coding assignments using GitHub and Visual Studio. “I enjoyed following the instructions and learning how to code using different environments,” she added. She found the session to be very informative and well-presented. Course: Software Development Campus: Boksburg Attendance: On-campus with her fellow students Pieter Van Staden expressed his excitement for coding and learning new things. “I enjoyed the interaction and the help offered throughout, especially with the breakout rooms,” Pieter said. He highlighted the professionalism of the session and shared that his entire class enjoyed it immensely. Pieter and his classmates are eager for more similar opportunities. Course: Software Development Campus: Pretoria Attendance: Online (remotely) Tumiso Tefu was encouraged by his facilitator to attend the event, seeking to broaden his knowledge in the tech space. “I had an opportunity to share my screen during the activity and received hands-on guidance,” Tumiso noted. He found the session so beneficial that he would attend again as a refresher. Course: Software Development Campus: Polokwane Attendance: Online (remotely) A Word from Head of Programme, Thabang Mashile: “One of the most valuable aspects of this boot camp was the collaborative environment it fostered. Our students had the opportunity to work in teams, share ideas, and support each other. This sense of community and teamwork is essential in the tech industry, and I believe it has reminded our students of what to expect in future endeavours. As we move forward, staying connected and informed about the latest trends and events in technology is important. Our students are aware that Microsoft offers a plethora of resources to keep us updated. Students are encouraged to regularly visit the Microsoft Developer Center and Microsoft Learn to upskill continuously.” – Thabang Mashile, HOP – IT School of Programming. A Bright Future in Tech As a Microsoft Training Partner, CTU Training Solutions ensures that our students have access to events like “Everyone Can Code” for their benefit. The event provided our Software Development students with valuable insights and practical experience in using Microsoft Azure, AI, Machine Learning, JavaScript, Azure App Services, and GitHub. The initiative has sparked a deeper interest in technology among our students and showcased the importance of inclusive education in tech. CTU Training Solutions remains committed to supporting such initiatives, ensuring our students have the tools and opportunities to excel in the ever-evolving tech landscape. We are proud of our students’ achievements and look forward to participating in more events that empower and inspire
Empowering South African Youth with Microsoft 365: CTU’s Game-Changing Initiative
At CTU Training Solutions, we’re excited to share our latest success story: the Microsoft 365 for Socio-Economic Development Project 2024. This fantastic initiative, in partnership with Microsoft, is all about equipping young South Africans with critical tech skills to boost their employability and support our country’s economic growth. Why This Project Matters In our rapidly digitizing world, knowing your way around cloud technologies like Microsoft 365 is essential. South Africa faces a significant tech skills gap, and we’re here to bridge it. By training 140 young individuals, aged 18-35, many of whom are unemployed or underemployed, we’re giving them the tools they need to succeed and thrive in today’s job market. What We Taught Our curriculum was designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of Microsoft 365, from the basics to advanced administrative roles. Here’s what our learners dived into: Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900): Basics of cloud concepts, core Microsoft services, security, compliance, privacy, and trust. Microsoft 365 Administrator (MS-102): Managing and configuring Microsoft 365 environments. Copilot for Microsoft 365 for Administrators (MS-4006): Advanced insights into using AI to enhance administrative functions. Plus, we ran workshops on CV building and preparing for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) workplace, ensuring our learners are ready to hit the ground running. How We Made Learning Fun We believe that learning should be engaging and interactive. That’s why we used a blended learning approach, combining face-to-face instruction with virtual sessions. Our experienced Microsoft Certified Trainers facilitated the sessions, ensuring high levels of engagement and interaction. Learning about cloud concepts and AI tools doesn’t have to be dull – and our trainers made sure it wasn’t! Real Voices, Real Impact Here’s what some of our stars had to say: Muhammed Momadi: “Mr. Musa M. did a great job explaining each aspect thoroughly. He also mentioned other relevant sources and aspects in relevant topics, which broadened our understanding significantly.” Nandy Rabebe: “The training improved me because now I understand things about Microsoft that I didn’t know before. The instructor knows how to do his job well, making it easy to follow along.” Mohammed Gumede: “The hands-on experience with Copilot was particularly valuable. It’s amazing to see how it can streamline tasks and improve efficiency across Microsoft apps.” Looking Ahead We’re thrilled with the success of the Microsoft 365 for Socio-Economic Development Project, but we’re not stopping here. We’re already planning to expand the scope of our training to include more advanced modules and integrate additional AI components. Our goal is to keep pace with global technological advancements and ensure our learners are always ahead of the curve. Conclusion At CTU Training Solutions, we’re passionate about making a difference. Our partnership with Microsoft is just one of the many ways we’re empowering South African youth, driving socio-economic development, and fostering a brighter future for all. Join us on this journey and be a part of the change. Together, we’re building a tech-savvy generation ready to take on the world!
CTU Leads The Way: Empowering Employees With AI & Microsoft 365 Copilot Training
At CTU, we are committed to staying at the forefront of technological advancements and ensuring our staff are well-equipped to leverage the latest tools and solutions. As part of this commitment, we recently organised a comprehensive internal training initiative focused on Microsoft 365 Copilot use cases. This training not only showcased our dedication to continuous learning but also highlighted our strong partnership with Microsoft. Training Overview The training sessions were held online over two Fridays, May 24 and 31, each spanning two hours. The sessions were designed to empower our workforce with practical knowledge and use cases for Microsoft 365 Copilot, a powerful tool that enhances productivity and streamlines tasks across various roles. Expert-Led Sessions We were privileged to have the sessions hosted by Microsoft Certified Trainer Faith Muwishi and long-time CTU Facilitator Renier Erasmus. Their expertise and engaging presentation styles ensured that the training was both informative and enjoyable for all 154 attendees. Comprehensive Course Content The training comprised 11 modules available on CTU’s Skills Academy platform, covering a range of topics such as: Introduction to Copilot for Microsoft 365 Exploring the possibilities with Copilot Optimising and extending Copilot Use cases tailored for Executives, Sales, IT, Marketing, Finance, HR, and Operations A challenge use case to test practical application skills AI Thought Leadership As a leading training company, CTU has dedicated substantial time, research, and resources to establish itself as an AI thought leader. This initiative marks the next step in our strategy to ensure that all staff become AI savvy, from facilitators to consultants to administrative and marketing teams. By incorporating AI as a company-wide intervention, we aim to enhance productivity and innovation across all departments. Department-Specific Benefits Academic and Facilitator Teams: Enhanced presentation features to improve training delivery. Sales Consultants and Customer Service: Advanced reporting capabilities to streamline data analysis and improve customer service. Marketing Teams: Creative content features to boost campaign and messaging effectiveness. Overall Staff Productivity: Increased efficiency through the integration of AI into daily tasks. Feedback and Impact Feedback from the training was overwhelmingly positive. According to Metrics That Matter, the attendees found the training “Extremely useful for my daily tasks.” Participants appreciated the opportunity to ask questions, the practical examples provided, and the interactive nature of the sessions. Instructor Knowledge: “The deep knowledge and enthusiasm of the instructors made the sessions engaging and informative.” User-Friendliness of Copilot: “The user friendliness of Copilot will help me reduce my workload and focus on more critical tasks.” Real-World Applications: “I learned the fundamentals of conversational Copilot building and how to leverage it in real-world scenarios.” Integration and Automation: “Understanding how Copilot integrates with various Microsoft applications to enhance communication and automate processes was a significant takeaway.” Commitment to Continuous Learning As a proud Microsoft Partner, CTU Training Solutions ensures that our staff are always trained and informed about the latest Microsoft technologies. This training initiative is a testament to our commitment to continuous learning and our dedication to incorporating cutting-edge solutions into our business practices.By investing in our employees’ skills and knowledge, we are not only enhancing their capabilities but also driving the overall success and innovation at CTU.
Celebrating Our Collective Success: PMR Diamond Arrow 2024 Award! CTU Century City: Leading the Way in IT Education.
We are thrilled to announce that our Century City Campus has been awarded the prestigious PMR Africa Diamond Arrow 2024! This honour recognises companies and institutions that have significantly contributed to the economic growth and development of the Western Cape over the past year. Rated as the #1 IT Training Institution by 150 esteemed leaders and visionaries, including CEOs, MDs, business owners, and government officials of the Western Cape, this accolade is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation in education. Our deepest gratitude goes to our exceptional team at CTU Century City. Your unwavering dedication and hard work have been instrumental in achieving this milestone. We also extend heartfelt thanks to our students, past and present, for your trust and enthusiasm. Your pursuit of knowledge and success drives us every day. This award fuels our commitment to setting new benchmarks in educational excellence and contributing positively to our community and beyond. CTU Training Solutions – Empowering People Through Education.
Legacy Qualifications vs New QCTO Occupational Qualification in South Africa
As of June 30, 2023, legacy or historical qualifications will be phased out as they expire and make way for occupational qualifications. Legacy qualifications, referring to outdated credentials issued before the establishment of the QCTO and OQSF frameworks, are being replaced by occupational qualifications designed to align with current industry needs, educational practices, and regulatory requirements. What does this mean? Legacy qualifications make room for occupational qualifications, which have been developed based on the OQSF frameworks and standards. These new qualifications aim to address the evolving demands and advancements in industries, ensuring better alignment with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required in various fields. Legacy qualifications, due to their outdated nature, may no longer adequately reflect the current needs of specific industries or possess the necessary relevance. The transition to occupational qualifications aims to bridge this gap by offering targeted, industry-specific training and education. How will this happen? Although legacy qualifications expired on 30 June 2023, transitional arrangements have been implemented to ease the shift. The last date for enrolment has been set for June 30, 2024, allowing learners to still pursue these qualifications until that date. Additionally, the last date for achievement has been extended to June 30, 2027, ensuring ample time for learners to complete their studies and assessments. The QCTO circular issued in January 2022 clarified the expiration process for legacy qualifications, specifically those known as unit standards-based or pre-2009 qualifications. The circular established a learner registration end date of June 30, 2023, signaling the conclusion of enrolment for these qualifications. It’s important to take note of the following important dates: Registration end date: June 30, 2023 Last date of enrolment: June 30, 2024 Last date of achievement: June 30, 2027 Continuation of Training, Assessments, and Achievements for Learners Following the registration end date, the training, assessments, moderations, and achievements associated with these qualifications will proceed as usual. Learners will still have the opportunity to enrol in these qualifications and pursue their unit standards until June 30, 2024. However, it is important to note that accredited Skills Development Providers (SDPs) will no longer be able to enrol new learners beyond this date. Moving forward, the training, assessments, moderation, and achievements on these qualifications will only continue for groups of learners who were registered before June 30, 2024. This ensures that learners who have already embarked on their educational journey can complete their studies and assessments without interruption. This period, known as the “Teach out period,” allows learners enrolled before June 30, 2024, to continue with their assessments, moderation, and achievements until June 30, 2027. It is important to be aware that statements of results and certificates for these qualifications will no longer be issued after June 30, 2027. Therefore, learners are encouraged to complete their studies within the designated timeframe to ensure they receive the necessary documentation and recognition for their achievements. By providing clarity on the continuation of training, assessments, and achievements, learners can make informed decisions regarding their educational journey, ensuring a smooth transition during this phase of qualification reform. What is an Occupational Qualification? An occupational qualification is a type of credential that is closely connected to a specific trade, occupation, or profession. It’s a qualification that can be obtained by participating in work-based learning experiences. This means that instead of just learning in a classroom, learners also get hands-on experience in the field they’re interested in. Occupational qualifications are made up of different parts, including knowledge unit standards, practical unit standards, and work experience unit standards. These standards are defined by the Skills Development Act, which is a set of rules and guidelines for developing qualifications that meet industry standards. Occupational qualifications focus on practical skills rather than just theoretical knowledge. They’re designed to give learners the specific skills and expertise they need to succeed in a particular job or industry. By participating in work-based learning, learners gain valuable experience and learn how to apply what they’ve learned in real-life situations. Differences Between QCTO and Legacy Qualifications There are two significant differences between the curriculum structures of QCTO (Quality Council for Trades and Occupations) and legacy qualifications. Let’s explore some of the key distinctions. Unit standards Legacy qualifications consist of multiple individual unit standards, each focusing on practical competencies, theoretical knowledge, and critical cross-field outcomes. On the other hand, QCTO qualifications divide the legacy unit standards into three distinct modules: Knowledge, Practical Skills, and Work Experience. Levels and Credits In the legacy qualification system, each unit standard carries its own National Qualifications Framework (NQF) level and credit value. These unit standards can be offered separately or combined with related ones to form a comprehensive learning or skills program. The credits earned for each competent unit standard are recorded in the National Learner Records Database (NLRD) for each learner. In contrast, QCTO units of learning modules are not designed to be standalone components, and they do not receive separate credit allocations. Instead, credits are allocated to the entire qualification or part-qualification as a whole. This means that separate units of learning do not have credits loaded into the NLRD. Will the Legacy qualifications still be valid? CTU made sure that additional current and relevant learning outcomes were added to the legacy programmes as part of the international certification requirements and based on industry needs continuously. Therefore, we equipped our graduates with industry-required competencies as part of the legacy programmes. After the successful completion of a legacy programme, the achievement of the qualification by the students is recorded on the SAQA National Learner Database. This record will not be removed from the NLRD and will be valid. 8 Important Facts About the Shift from Legacy Qualifications to Occupational Qualifications The way forward Legacy qualifications in 2025 for current (2024) students CTU students currently enrolled for legacy qualifications will have until 31 May 2024 to register for the next level of legacy qualification to be obtained in 2025. They will have until 31 December 2027 to complete the qualification. New Occupational qualifications 2025 Students currently registered for legacy qualifications may also register for available Occupational qualifications in 2025. It is recommended that all students currently registered for legacy qualifications make an appointment with their campus Sales Manager or Sales Consultant to discuss their 2025 registration and payment options. Conclusion As South Africa bids farewell to legacy qualifications, a new era
Digital Parenting: 5 Essential Steps to Enhance Your Child’s Cybersecurity
Due to the pervasiveness of technology in our daily lives, cybersecurity has become an indispensable component of contemporary existence, particularly for young individuals who commence engaging with digital technologies at a young age. Cybersecurity is the protection of computer systems, networks, and associated data from malicious online attacks. The prevalence of cybercrime, encompassing various activities such as device hacking and personal information theft, is increasing in tandem with the widespread adoption of internet connectivity and mobile devices. We have a responsibility as guardians to protect our children from these dangers through vigilance and action. To ensure the online safety of your children, you must do the following five things: 1. Enhance Knowledge Regarding Cyber Risks and Individual Responsibility The importance of cybersecurity education cannot be overstated. Malware, phishing, and espionage are legitimate threats on the internet today, and children must be aware of how to avoid them. An instance of a fraudulent email campaign that requests sensitive information is phishing; conversely, hacking may result in the compromise of login credentials for social media platforms and online accounts. It is of the utmost importance that parents engage in candid discussions with their children regarding these risks and emphasise the significance of protecting personal information while using the internet. Creating a conducive atmosphere wherein children feel comfortable divulging information regarding their online activities to their parents is critical. 2. Implement Strict Safety Protocols Security measures such as two-factor authentication (2FA) and secure credentials are critical to cybersecurity. Assist children in maintaining online safety by guiding them to employ unique, complex passwords and, whenever possible, to enable 2FA. In the event that an assailant obtains the password, bypassing the second stratum of security, which generally consists of a code transmitted to a mobile device, will remain impossible. 3. Frequently update your software and create backups of your data. An uncomplicated and effective approach to protecting devices from cyber threats is to ensure they are regularly updated. In order to obtain unauthorised access to confidential data, cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities present in obsolete software. With the ability to perform automatic updates and frequent enhancements, safeguarding sensitive data is simplified. Private information such as documents and images can be restored in the event of a cyberattack if children understand the importance of data backups. 4. Monitor Online Conduct by Implementing Parental Controls Utilising parental controls is one of the most crucial methods for regulating children’s Internet usage. They facilitate the restriction of inappropriate resources and the elimination of harmful content for minors. You can obtain a clearer image of whether or not your child is engaging in risky or inappropriate online behaviour by utilising monitoring applications and tools. Ensuring a suitable degree of surveillance while concurrently safeguarding children’s privacy and fostering their confidence in adults is of utmost importance. 5. Encourage Introspection and Conscientious Technology Utilisation When interacting with the digital domain, the application of critical thinking skills becomes vital. A crucial duty is to instil in young minds the understanding that they must verify and scrutinise information prior to placing undue reliance on it. By instilling in children the ability to scrutinise the legitimacy of requests for personal information or financial transactions, it is possible to avert a multitude of cybercrimes. Ensuring the safety of children from cyberbullying and exploitation can be accomplished by providing them with guidance on how to modify their privacy settings and instructing them on how to behave responsibly when using social media. Conclusion The safety of our children during their online activities is increasingly challenging in light of technological advancements. To ensure children’s online safety, it is most effective to guide them in critical thinking, the implementation of robust security measures, regular software updates, parental controls, and cybersecurity knowledge. While ensuring the safety of our children is our foremost concern, we are equally committed to equipping them with the necessary resources to utilise the internet in a secure and comfortable manner. Johan Steyn is a Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence advocate and thought leader. He was recognised by Swiss Cognitive as one of the top 50 global voices on AI. He was a finalist for the 2022 IT Personality of the Year Award. Find him on AIforBusiness.net
