Unisa Library and Information Services (LIS) hosted an online training session on 24 July 2024 to introduce students and staff to PressReader, a digital platform offering access to a vast selection of newspapers and magazines from around the world.
Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, Vice-Principal of Research, Postgraduate Studies, Innovation and Commercialisation, attended the workshop. At the beginning of the workshop, she thanked the LIS team for their initiative and highlighted the session's value.
The organiser of the training session, Unisa LIS branch librarian Sonto Morudu, welcomed all who attended. Her introduction set the stage for an enriching experience with valuable insights and learning. Morudu then introduced the facilitator, Fatima Khan-Amra from NewspaperDirect SA. With more than a decade of experience in the field, Khan-Amra is renowned for her extensive knowledge. Her presence promised significant enrichment and a deep dive into the intricacies of the industry.
Thanks to Khan-Amra’s expertise and engaging presentation, the participants gathered a thorough understanding of the features of PressReader. She explained that the platform accommodates users with various visual impairments and demonstrated how they can benefit from its accessible design. Khan-Amra demonstrated ways to navigate the platform and leverage its extensive collection of digital newspapers and magazines, which is available 24/7 on both the app and the desktops of users.
The interactive format of the training included live demonstrations, and Q&A sessions allowed participants to ask questions and get immediate answers. This hands-on approach ensured that everyone left with a clear understanding of PressReader for academic and personal use.
The virtual nature of the training made it accessible to both Unisa students and staff, and offered them the opportunity to enhance their digital literacy skills. The session highlighted the importance of staying informed and demonstrated the critical role that PressReader can play in it.
Attendees praised the session for its clarity and completeness. Many noted the convenience of remote access to such a vast repository of information not only for academic research but also for the latest current events. The attendees believed that the training would allow them to use PressReader effectively for both their educational and personal growth.
Due to the success of this event, LIS plans additional training sessions on various digital platforms and resources. These sessions are part of a larger initiative to improve digital literacy and access to resources for the Unisa community.
The PressReader training session exemplifies Unisa’s commitment to providing students and staff with the tools and knowledge to thrive in a digital world. By making resources such as PressReader easily accessible and by ensuring that users are well trained, Unisa continues to support academic excellence and lifelong learning.
LIS is fostering a globally informed and connected academic community, ultimately strengthening its global impact pillar. The next training sessions will take place on 08 August 2024. Invitations will be shared on Unisa's online platforms and social media.
*By Itumeleng Mpete, LIS
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