EdTech Mondays to Spotlight Cultural Diversity in Learning Tools

The September edition of EdTech Mondays Radio Show will focus on how educational technology can embrace the country’s cultural and linguistic diversity, airing on Monday, September 30, 2024, at 8:10 PM EAT via Fana FM 98.1 and 10 other affiliated radio stations across Ethiopia.

This episode, titled ‘Embracing Diversity in Learning Tools’, will explore how integrating local languages, cultural narratives, and age-appropriate content into EdTech platforms can create a more engaging and inclusive learning experience for Ethiopian students.

As Ethiopia is home to over 80 ethnic groups, educational tools must resonate with the unique identities of learners, both in terms of language and cultural context. The upcoming discussion will emphasize the need for culturally responsive EdTech tools that not only enhance academic outcomes but also promote a sense of belonging. By incorporating elements such as traditional games and local stories, EdTech developers can foster both academic and social growth, helping students thrive in today’s interconnected world.

Hosted by journalist and producer Rediet Meshesha, the panel will feature Helinna Ayalew, co-creator of Edtech Ethiopia, and Betelhem Tadesse, Early Childhood Education program advisor. Together, they will explore how educators can use these tools to respect and celebrate diversity while supporting the physical, mental, and social development of students.

The show will investigate several key questions, including how EdTech tools can be designed to better serve students from diverse backgrounds and how educators can be trained to utilize these tools effectively. The panel will also discuss the challenges and opportunities of making EdTech resources more inclusive, focusing on how communities can play a role in developing tools that reflect Ethiopia’s cultural diversity.

The EdTech Mondays Radio Show is produced by Shega Media & Technology in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation.