First Year Experience Academic Bootcamp

The Teaching and Learning Centre in collaboration with the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities recently held a dynamic and empowering two-day academic bootcamp for first-year students, aimed at equipping them with essential skills for academic success. The initiative, which formed part of the institution’s First-Year Experience (FYE) programme, took place on two campuses Day One at the East London Campus and Day Two at the Alice Campus.

The bootcamp was an interactive and engaging introduction to university life, carefully designed to bridge the transition from high school to higher education. Students were guided through key academic foundations such as proper referencing techniques, academic writing conventions, and the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in learning. They also received hands-on training in navigating Blackboard, the university’s learning management system, and benefited from academic advising sessions focused on making informed academic decisions. A significant focus was placed on developing effective study strategies to prepare students for exams and long-term success. Each session was delivered in an accessible, student-centred manner, ensuring that learners could immediately apply what they were being taught. Beyond the lecture halls, the boot camp embraced a spirit of fun and camaraderie. Students participated in energizing group activities like Snakes and Ladders and Walk the Plank, which served as powerful tools to foster teamwork, communication, and peer bonding. These activities not only lightened the atmosphere but also underscored the importance of holistic student development. The high turnout over both days was a testament to the enthusiasm and commitment of the incoming cohort. Many students expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn in a supportive and vibrant environment.

Notably, the Deputy Dean Teaching and Learning of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities Dr Kim Schmidt played an active and visible role throughout the event, offering encouraging words and interacting with students during sessions and activities. Their presence reflected the faculty’s deep investment in the academic and personal growth of its students. The success of the bootcamp was also made possible by the dedicated involvement of the Teaching and Learning Centre’s FYE team. Their careful planning, mentorship, and hands-on facilitation ensured the event ran smoothly and achieved its intended impact. As the academic year unfolds, initiatives like this bootcamp reinforce the University of Fort Hare’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded, confident, and academically prepared students, laying a strong foundation for future achievement.

A key highlight of the programme was a thought provoking presentation by Professor Roxanne Piderit, which focused on the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in academic contexts. Her presentation provided valuable insights into responsible digital engagement and critical thinking in an era of emerging technologies, thereby setting an important ethical tone for students at the beginning of their academic journeys.

The bootcamp contributed significantly to the institution’s blended learning agenda by creating a supportive and interactive environment that fostered student confidence and self-directed learning. Among the successes of the initiative were high levels of student attendance and the effective use of student demonstrators to provide peer support.

However, the implementation of the bootcamp was not without challenges. Variations in students’ digital competencies, along with logistical and infrastructural limitations, occasionally disrupted the flow of sessions. These issues were addressed through enhanced coordination, simplified training materials, and real-time technical support.