Training 8-11th of January

Methodological training was organized for English language teachers, Math and IT teachers from Naryn villages from 8^th of January to 11^th.

Teachers introduced their schools, project work by presenting it to each other. Teachers shared information and suggested key strategies to improve the work. Teachers discussed the role of the teacher in a modern society and the ways to strengthen the teachers’ position at school and for the project. At the same time, different styles of teaching and learning were differentiated through the role plays of groups. “What will be successful for the project and what kind of challenges should we expect?”- these questions were analyzed and described in pairs and shared in the group.

At the training teachers have gained knowledge and practiced many Educational instructional strategies for innovative methods of teaching. One example is resume writing. All teachers submitted their resume according to required form and structure. They have found that it’s different from the resume that they use and practiced. Some of teachers “published” their resumes for the group, while others commented and gave feedback to improve it.

In the first time at the training a research work process and principles were introduced to teachers. They had opportunity to work in small groups according to their chosen research question. Many teachers had difficulties in proposing a research question, hypothesis, or support in their inquiry according to the structure and in logical sequence. All of them presented their work to others and got feedback on their work.

In the third day, types of assessment with a lot of examples supported them were presented to teachers. Teachers in two groups enriched their knowledge in content knowledge by discussing in English language group the role of the Language and teaching practice of presenting grammar at the lessons, developing students’ skills in writing, listening, speaking, and reading. Compare and contrast essay structure was introduced to teachers and they could practice in writing the first draft. Teachers used peer-evaluation forms and after that they wrote the second draft, the last version was submitted to trainer for the summative assessment. Teachers will use these skills with their students after the training and prepare them for the competition and presentation of a research work and essay competition.

In the group of IT and Math teachers, new innovative methods of teaching also were discussed, induction and logics in Math were the key points in introduction of the topics. Teachers introduced mental math and that it can be implemented in the pilot groups.

After the training, teachers had a chance for the tour to UCA, Naryn where they got fresh ideas and emotions during the visit. They were very interested about studying, programs and courses for students at the University and opportunities for funding with scholarships for their students to study there.

Generally, it was very productive meeting where teachers were focused on their future work and preparation of students for the next competitions.