1. General Information

Q: What is the Guyana Digital School (GDS)?

A: The Guyana Digital School (GDS) is an online educational initiative by the Ministry of Education, Guyana, providing high-quality, accessible education for students across the CARICOM region.

Q: Who can enrol in the Guyana Digital School?

A: Currently, GDS is open for students in Form 4 and 5 (Grades 10 and 11) across Guyana and other CARICOM countries.

Q: Is GDS recognized?

A: Yes, GDS is an official initiative from the Office of the President, Guyana and the Ministry of Education, Guyana, aligned with Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) standards and mapped to the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exams.

2. Admissions and Enrolment

Q: How do I apply to the Guyana Digital School?

A: You can apply online through the GDS website (https://digitalschool.moe.edu.gy/) by filling out the application form, uploading the required documents and following the steps for eligibility verification.

Q: What are the eligibility criteria for enrolment?

A: Eligibility is based on grade level and completion of required documents, such as previous academic records and identification. Specific details are provided on the GDS application page.

Q: Can I apply if I am from a CARICOM country outside of Guyana?

A: Yes, GDS welcomes students from across the CARICOM region who meet the eligibility requirements for Form 4 and 5 (Grades 10 and 11).

Q: Will students be required to take entrance exams?

A: No entrance exams are currently required for enrolment at GDS. Admissions are based on document verification and grade-level eligibility. However, in cases where students are required to take up the entrance exam to demonstrate their ability.

3. Curriculum and Courses

Q: What curriculum does GDS follow?

A: GDS follows the CXC standards and is mapped to the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) curriculum, ensuring students receive an education aligned with national and regional standards.

Q: How many courses (subjects) are available at GDS?

A: GDS offers a total of 13 courses across key academic disciplines, including Mathematics and Science, Business and Human Development Studies, and Arts and Humanities.

Q: Does the curriculum differ from traditional schools in Guyana?

A: The core curriculum aligns with the CSEC standards followed in traditional schools, but GDS also includes additional digital resources, innovative enhancements, applied-learning and skill-building activities to support a holistic learning experience.

Q: Can students choose their subjects?

A: Yes, students select their subjects based on their grade level and personal interests, with guidance available to help them make informed choices.

4. Learning Model and Technology

Q: What platform does GDS use for online learning?

A: GDS uses a dedicated Learning Management System (LMS) and the GDS App, where students can access classes, assignments, assessments and announcements.

Q: What is the Four Quadrant Approach to teaching and learning?

A: The Four Quadrant Approach used by GDS includes E-Learning (live online classes), E-Content (digital resources), Innovative Enhancements (skill-building activities), and Activity-Based Learning (projects and assessments). This approach ensures a well-rounded education that goes beyond traditional learning.

Q: What if I don’t have access to a computer or internet at home?

A: GDS has set up designated digital classrooms in selected locations, allowing students without access to technology at home to participate in classes and activities.

Q: Is the GDS platform secure?

A: Yes, GDS employs industry-standard security measures, including encrypted login and secure data storage, to protect user information and provide a safe learning environment.

Q: When are live sessions scheduled, and what is the class schedule like?

A: Live sessions are scheduled between 7:00 am and 2:00 pm (GYT) from Monday to Friday, with Saturdays reserved for self-study activities and weekly assessments. The class schedule is designed to provide a balanced learning experience, featuring regular sessions for core subjects and additional sessions for skill-building and extracurricular activities. Students and parents can access the full class schedule and calendar of events through the LMS and GDS App.

5. Student Support and Engagement

Q: What kind of support is available for students?

A: GDS offers robust support through the LMS help desk, academic assistance from teachers, and guidance from a dedicated Program Manager. The Program Manager oversees student support, coordinating with regional coordinators to ensure students have the resources and assistance they need for a successful learning experience.

Q: How does GDS engage parents?

A: Parents receive real-time updates on their child’s progress via the GDS App, and regular parent-teacher meetings are held to discuss academic performance and address concerns.

Q: How are students’ attendance and participation monitored?

A: GDS uses attendance tracking and engagement monitoring features on the LMS to ensure students actively participate in classes. Parents also receive notifications for attendance records.

Q: Will there be extracurricular activities available?

A: Yes, GDS organizes extracurricular activities, including sports meets, school-level festivals, games, and competitions at designated centers, providing opportunities for students to connect and develop beyond academics.

Q: How does GDS support students from underserved areas?

A: GDS has set up digital classrooms, allowing students from underserved areas or without internet access at home to participate in classes and activities.

6. Assessment and Feedback

Q: How are students assessed at GDS?

A: Students are assessed through quizzes, assignments and end-of-term exams, with the continuous assessment components integrated into the LMS.

Q: How does GDS incorporate feedback from students and parents?

A: GDS collects feedback through surveys, online forms and meetings, using it to make improvements in the learning experience, technology and support services.

Q: Are end-of-term exams conducted online?

A: Yes, end-of-term exams are conducted on the LMS under proctored conditions, ensuring a fair and secure evaluation process.

7. Progression and Graduation

Q: How does a student advance to the next grade level?

A: Advancement to the next grade level is based on a student’s performance in assessments, exams and overall progress throughout the academic year.

Q: Are there recognition programs for outstanding performance?

A: GDS issues digital badges and e-certificates for academic excellence, skill development and progression allowing students to showcase their achievements.

8. Crisis Management

Q: What happens in case of a technology failure or security breach?

A: GDS has a crisis communication plan that includes notifying affected users via email, SMS and website announcements, providing a support line for assistance, and issuing regular updates until the issue is resolved.