Implementation of the Marks Administration System (MAS) at a Western Cape university

Abstract

This study investigated the implementation of the Marks Administration System, (MAS), within the context of technology and innovation in South African universities following the growth in student numbers. Using a purely descriptive approach, it focused on the implementation of the technology of mark administration (MAS) at the University of the Western Cape, Cape Town. Primary sources, which include original documents and first-hand information served as the method of data collection to explore some of the challenges associated with the process of technology implementation during and post-implementation phases. The study found that, a decade after implementation of MAS at the university, there still exist challenges such resistance and lack of compliance, which are often compounded by technical problems. The former was attributable to the lack of user involvement and wide consultations about the process during the introduction and implementation phases.