The “Train the trainers Workshop” was held on the 30th and 31st of August and on the 1st of September and was successfully completed in Poland.
All STAND project partners shared their thoughts, ideas and presented their modules. After having spent three days of constructive dialogue, the STAND project partners reached an agreement as to the content of the modules that will compose the MOOC.
Module 1 – The use of ICT tools in the class
In this module, the participants will get to know a wide range of ICT tools that can be used for teaching and learning in the classroom. The module aims to give a broad overview of the different tools available, yet also to highlight some tools through the personal experience of teachers working in primary and middle school. The module focuses on 6 different kinds of tools, both for teachers and for students. It will cover interactive presentations and videos to present learning materials to students, as well as tools to stimulate creativity and collaboration in class. The module also presents tools to help with exercising and assessment, and finally will also address some tools that can be used for students with special needs.
The module will guide participants through the jungle of available tools online, highlighting specific features for education and giving personal examples of use and benefits of specific tools. Participants will practice the tools themselves throughout the activities, and reflect upon their use through the reflection’s questions and forum discussions. Moreover, the module aims to give practical examples from teachers that will stimulate the curiosity of participants to try out new tools, develop their digital skills, and improve the classroom experience by introducing specific and fitting tools.
Module 2 – Digital media literacy
Module 2 will address the functioning of digital media and their potential in educational settings, exploring new modes of e-communication and participation. Risks and opportunities linked to the new media and their responsible use will be mentioned.
Module 3 – Subject-specific use of digital platforms and tools
In this module teachers will learn why digital tools are necessary for scientific, PBL or SDGs education, which digital tools are currently available to teach the specific-subjects and main areas mentioned before and get to know how they work. By the end of this module teacher will learn how to implement, engage the students, and manage assessments through digital tools.
Module 4 – Designing online courses through LMS
In Module 4 teachers will learn how to use Learning Management Systems (LMS) as collaborative learning & inclusive education tools and will become familiar with the basic features and functions of LMSs (such as Moodle and Google Classroom). Module 4 will guide participants through the design of their own online course through an LMS. By the end of the Module participants will have a complete overview of what an LMS is and how it can be best used by both teachers and other educators in an effective and inclusive way.
Module 5 – Mobile devices to support teaching
Mobile devices can provide students with equity and empowerment and help them understand complex concepts. By using digital animations and simulations it is easier to explain abstract concepts to students and develop their critical thinking and problem solving skills. They can also serve as a powerful tool that can also help and engage students in the learning process. Mobile devices are great tools to enhance pupils’ literacy and numeracy skills and there is a positive feeling among teachers to use them in the classroom. At the same time it is important to identify what works and for whom to make a contribution to proper educational policies by evidence of good practice.
All STAND project partners are currently working on their modules, planning webinars and face2face sessions. The piloting stage of the MOOC is about to begin so buckle up!