Ibadan-based Accessible Publishers has unveiled the Accessible Studybase Learning Management Platform, a web application targeted at elevating teaching and learning in modern Nigerian primary and secondary schools.
With over 2,000 Nigeria Educational Research and Development Council NERDC-approved print, audio-visual and personal tutorial sessions, the platform has deployed technology in enhancing learning and reducing operational costs for schools.
Initially focused solely on publication of creative and education texts, the publisher formerly known as Rasmed Publications, was forced to rebrand owing to the COVID-19 pandemic which impacted method of teaching and learning. The rebranding rose from the vision of raising the inclusivity and availability of all its products – eBook, audio books, braille, virtual learning app.
Hence, the current web application holds “a teaching series for all subjects in various textbooks approved by the NERDC; interactive multi-media contents (PowerPoint slides, audio clips, images, illustrations); a robust external examination question bank for BECE, NECO and WAEC students, and an end-to-end school management software with modules such as Admission Module, Teachers and Students Profilings, Online Payment Gateway among others.
“It is important to understand the inspiration behind this project,” said MD/CEO Accessible Publishers Limited, Gbadega Adedapo. “A significant portion of our daily communication happens through social media engagement – text messages, emails and messaging apps. In all these we realized that 80 per cent of our reading and learning process nowadays are in digital form, that is through our respective gadgets. Therefore, we thought it will be great to package our contents and book products to fit into what people are mostly interested in – the gadgets.
“Accessible Studybase was also borne out of the need to build resilience and a sustainable publishing industry. COVID-19 taught us resilience and also served as a catalyst for change, innovation and introspection, prompting individuals, societies and organizations to reevaluate their priorities, strengthen their resilience and prepare for the future.
“This web application has accelerated the adoption of digital technologies by taking advantage of the synergy between ICT and publishing to enhance the learning process and improve school operational cost.”
In highlighting the singularly unique benefit of the application, Accessible Publishers Digital Manager, Dapo Adebayo said, “Where there is no teacher, application and content are curriculum-based. It enables access to quality education regardless of geographical location or time constraints thereby bridging the gap in educational access. Students also learn at their own pace and convenience.
“The application’s interactive content has been tested in various schools, with feedbacks obtained and adjustments made to make it work seamlessly,” concluded Adebayo.