Mzukisi Howard Kepe (Cape Peninsula University of Technology, South Africa)
Abstract
In recent years, increasing awareness of the adverse environmental effects and human health risks associated with plastic waste and pollution has prompted a call for comprehensive strategies to manage the life cycle of plastic products. In this project, I explore how universities of technology can leverage computational thinking and systemic communication skills to mitigate the environmental harm caused by plastic pollution. Recognizing that effective approaches to this issue require industrial, economic, and legal interventions, as well as institutional support, I posit that integrating computational thinking skills into K-12 and higher education can significantly enhance electronic literacy and problem-solving abilities. Particularly within the context of computer science education research related to plastic pollution, I employed both qualitative and quantitative methods to illustrate how communication skills, advocacy, integrated projects, and computational thinking can identify and implement innovative strategies for balancing ecological and social systems. The findings demonstrate that employing computational thinking and systemic communication effectively addresses persistent plastic pollution through application, identification, interpretation, and crystallization of innovative solutions.
ESBB Featured Session: Research Paper (In person; 25 minutes)
Critical Pedagogy/Perspectives
Primarily of Interest to Teachers of University Students
About the Presenter
Mzukisi Howard Kepe
I hold a PhD in English language education with a specialized focus on sociolinguistics. My primary research interests advocate for classroom-based pedagogical practices that enhance the educational experience. I have actively contributed to the academic community by presenting at numerous prestigious international conferences, including those at Leeds Beckett University, University of Toyama, Kanya Maha Vidyalaya College in Jalandhar, Dhofar University, and Palma de Mallorca. My endeavours have taken me to several universities in Vietnam, where I have collected data and delivered keynote addresses at Banking University, Ton Duc Thang University, Tan Tao University, Van Lang University, and Finance University in Ho Chi Minh City. My work continues to influence the field of English language education through my commitment to fostering effective pedagogical practices.
