Volunteer teachers
Am Mubiru Charles the Headteacher of Kikaaya College School in Uganda ,East Africa.My school is in need of teachers who can help in teaching English language , Mathematics , Computer studies , Chemistry , Physics , Biology , Music , Carpentry and Joinery , Metal work , Electronics, Accounts , Economics ,Geography , Histroy , Agriculture , Creative writing , French and German.
I need advice on how I can attract volunteer teachers to my school
I need advice on how I can attract volunteer teachers to my school
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by S.Lister on
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Hello Mubiru,
I just joined an organization called, "Teachers Without Borders" (TWB) so I can't tell you much about it since I am so new.... However, the website shows they are currently working on some projects in Africa. Perhaps there are some possibilities through TWB .
Since you have one computer connected to the internet there may be a possibility for retired teachers from around the globe to teach a class of students in a 'video conference-like" setting using such tools as Elluminate, WizIQ, or WebHuddle. It's not ideal, of course, and would require additional equipment such as a speakers and projector as well as additional internet time (another cost) but who knows, you may just find someone... there are over 9,000 people with the possibility of getting your message in the Classroom 2.0 site!! If you find a teacher who is interested and you're able to get the required equipment, I will gladly help by mentoring.
Another thought might be to use a 'distance education' approach to some of the courses for which you need teachers. In this scenario, the course curriculum would be available online for individual students to access on their own time. The students would need access to an internet connection (either at the school or through an internet cafe if there is one available); you would need the content written for online delivery (I'm willing to help you with that!); and you will need a teacher - for this scenario, there may be someone within Uganda who would like to increase their online teaching skills and donate time to your school or someone else from outside might be keen.
The last option I can think of for leveraging the power of technology to solve your teacher shortage is to find a teacher who is willing to record video of lessons of content from within each of the topics that you feel are key to deep understanding for your students. These videos could be made available to be played on DVD player hooked up to a TV (additional equipment?). But it would be important to not just provide the videos, I would highly recommend, that a 'teacher guide' be included with the videos which can used by a teaching assistant that will work with the students. The teacher guide would include many learning activities to get the students involved in the content.
I believe a committed 'good teacher' in any of the above scenarios working with someone from your school who is maybe not as qualified but cares about education and the students, will be able to put together some very effective courses for your students. In Canada, we have a long history of distance education for our outlying regions. What's nice now, is that the students can have more contact with mentors, tutors and teachers because of the internet.
I operate a Moodle site and will gladly give you access to my site if you're interested in setting up online courses.
Lastly, please tell us more about your school - Is it a private or government school? Can you supply the 'learning outcomes' or other curricular documents for the courses which you have listed above? What about the assessments for the courses - are there state-wide assessments? Why are so many of courses without teachers?
Good luck in your search for volunteers!
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Permalink Reply by Mubiru Charles on
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Dear S.Lister,
Thank you so much for the detailed explanation. Our school is a community based school with 200 students offering vocational education , and 720 students offering secondary education. There is a national curriculum which we are following at both vocational , and secondary school level.
We have teachers for most of the subjects/courses but the biggest problem is to do with the numbers of students. The students teacher ratio is too big for the instance some classes have 110 students so it becomes a problem for the teacher to manage the class.
Sometimes teachers take more lessons than what they are supposed to do so , it becomes quite a problem.
Therefore , it will be a pleasure to have online classes in my school. Your assistance will highly be welcome in this arrangement I would like to know what are the requirements in this aspect. You talked about a Moodle site I would like to get more information on how we can use it.
Lastly, all these courses/subjects are assessed by a National Examining body.
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Hi Mubiru,
Thanks for sharing more information about your situation - you can imagine that is quite different than many of the situations a teacher from Canada might find themselves in.
A few more questions...
Is it possible to send a 'copy' of the national curriculum for a course? Is it already in digital format or will you need to scan it?
Does a student's score on the National Examines make up 100% of their grade or does the course work and in-class quizzes/assignments/projects count for a percentage? Are the National exams set at each grade or only in particular grades? These are important questions because although I might believe in social learning and the importance of 21st Century skills, the students and parents would probably want their schools to focus on ensuring the student is able to pass the exam! This in turn would have a great affect on how the distance learning material was designed.
Are the courses taught in English? How are your students english skills? I should have asked this earlier because this will have an impact on getting teachers and designing course materials!
What is the penetration of mobile phones among your students? do most students have them and if so, what are the typical features of your student's phones - I'm asking this question because there may be other avenues to engage your students.
Do your students live at the school or walk daily to school from villages in the surrounding area? What percentage of your students will go on to higher studies? Will the students who complete your courses stay in the area or move elsewhere? I'm just curious!
I will skype you with more details about accessing my moodle site. In the meantime, you may want to sign up at Moodle.org - there is an excellent support forum there. I would also strongly suggest downloading "moodle on a Stick" so that you can investigate the moodle environment offline - Here are some other sites with information/discussion on the topic:
http://sclater.com/blog/?p=43
http://colchambers.blogspot.com/2008/06/is-offline-moodle-really-wo...
http://docs.moodle.org/en/Development:Offline_Moodle
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Hi Lister,
Thanks for the additional information. Many of my students can understand the content which is in English , but English is not their first language they use Luganda as the mother tongue.
Some few students stay at the school boarding facilities , but majority of them stay in the villages surrounding the school.
My students do not posses mobile phones
Atleast 60% of my students will go for higher studies , and as a matter of fact they will move to distant places to attend higher education.
I have typed detailed syllabus for Computer studies , I will try to get more for other subjects.
COMPUTER STUDIES
The introduction of Computer studies into secondary school curricular is a big advancement in our education system. Computer literacy has become indispensable to a literate modern (up-to-date) secondary school graduate and will not only introduce him/her into the employment world but also into world of creativity , innovations and research with the use of the internet and other related technologies.
AIM
The subject aims at equipping the learner with computer information and communication technology in order to enhance one’s productivity and development of creative skills for problem solving and efficiency.
General objectives
By the end of the course , the learner should be able to:
1.Demonstrate general knowledge and skills in the use of computer and related technologies.
2.Use the knowledge acquired in computer studies to enhance learning in other subjects.
3.Understand important issues of a technology based society and exhibit ethical behaviour in the use of computer technology
4.Exhibit basic computer skills required for employment
5.Acquire knowledge as a foundation for further studies in computer technology.
6.Use a variety of computer technologies to access , analyse , interpret , synhthesize , apply and communicate information.
AIMS OF THE CURRICULAR ARE TO
(I) develop in the students an appreciation of the range and power of computer appreciations;
(II) develop understanding and practical experiences of systematic methods of Organizing , Processing and Documentation of data;
(III) to develop understanding of the organization of computer systems including software , hardware and communications;
(IV) foster a desire to use computers within other interests;
(V) provide students with basic knowledge and skills required for computer use and applications.
EXAMINATION FORMAT:
There will be two papers
Paper 1: Theory (2 ½ hours)
This paper will consist of three sections: A,B and C.
Section A, consisting of short answer questions covering the whole syllabus , will be compulsory. (20 marks)
Section B will consist of six equally-weighted structured questions of which a candidate will attempt four. (60 marks)
Section C will consist of three equally-weighted essay questions and a candidate will attempt only one. (20 marks)
Paper 2: (2 ¼ hours)
This paper will be divided into two sections: A and B
Section A, on Word-processing and Spread-sheets , will be compulsory. (40 marks)
Section B will consist of four equally-weighted questions of which a candidate will attempt one. This section will include Database , Presentation and web publishing Application Software. (60 marks)
Detailed Syllabus:
Topic 1: The Computer: History and Present
1.1 History and evolution of computers
1.2 Computer generations
1.3 Computers today
Topic 2: Components , Categories , Classification and Functions of Computers
2.1 The Computer system
2.2 Categories of computers
2.3 Classification of computers by size
2.4 Functions and characteristics of computers
Topic 3: Computer Hardware
3.1 The Computer hardware components
3.2 Functions of various units and peripheral devices of a computer
3.3 Booting a computer
3.4 Computer peripheral/attachments
3.5 Computer and lab care
Topic 4: Computer Software
4.1 The Computer software components
4.2 Operating system(OS) software
4.3 Utility programmes
4.4 Applications/Programmes
4.5 Programming languages
4.6 The Disk Operating System (DOS)
4.7 Windows Operating System
Topic 5: Introduction to Computer word processing
5.1 The nature and characteristics of word processing
5.2 Functions of word software
5.3 The operations of word processing
5.4 The use of word processing in the classroom
Topic 6 : Introduction to Spreadsheets
6.1 The nature and characteristics of spreadsheets software
6.2 Functions of a spreadsheet software
6.3 The operations of spreadsheets (up to setting Global Worksheets)
6.4 The use of spreadsheets in the classroom
Topic 7: Introduction to Computer Communication , Internet and Intranet.
7.1 The nature and characteristics of the internet and intranet
7.2 The history and development of the internet and intranet and world wide web (WWW)
7.3 Connecting a computer to the internet
7.4 The Network terminology and Internet Protocols
7.5 E-mail communications
7.6 Factors affecting communication speed on the internet
7.7 Computers communicating with one another
7.8 Internet services
7.9 The nature, characteristics of an internet Browser
7.10 The nature, characteristics of Networks and connectivity
7.11 Ways and means of accessing the internet Online
7.12 The nature and types of connections
7.13 The nature and use of Search Engines and Subject Directories
7.14 The web-based Scavenger Hunt activity nature
7.15 Other Internet terminologies (Functions)
7.16 Using internet to enhance learning
Topic 8: Introduction to Databases
8.1 The nature and characteristics of Databases
8.2 Functions of Databases
8.3 Creating a simple Database
8.4 The operations of Databases
8.5 Sources of information for Databases
8.6 Ways and means of manipulating Databases
8.7 Interpretation of information
Topic 9: Introduction to Presentation Software
9.1 The nature and characteristics of Presentation Software
9.2 Functions of Presentation Software
9.3 The operations of Presentation software
9.4 Additional basic exercises
9.5 Enhancements
Topic 10: Introduction to web Publishing
10.1 The nature , characteristics and terms used for web page Publishing
10.2 Components and their functions ; Page Titles ; Text
10.3 Functions of a Web Page
10.4 The operations of a Web Page
10.5 The importance of a Web Page
Topic 11: The Future of Computers and the Internet
11.1 The future generations of computers
11.2 Computer Research
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Permalink Reply by Allyson McDowell on
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Hello Mubiru,
I am a Fashion Design and Art teacher at a high school in New York. I also teach part-time at a Fashion College. I am also working on a Masters in Technology and curriculum design. My main focus is the integration of technology across curriculum's. I teach a technology rich Fashion Course which integrates computers to the basic curriculum. I looked at your curriculum and it is like looking at the college computer curriculum.
I have always wanted to volunteer my teaching skills but time does not permit me to travel during the school year. If you need another teacher mentor I can definitely do so remotely. Or I can share my knowledge of technology integration.
Good luck on your search, Allyson McDowell
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Dear Allson,
Thank you so much for the advise I would like you to teach me how to integrate technology in curriculum
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Hello Mubiru,
It depends on the subject that you teach, the grade and the present curriculum. Your present curriculum seems very tight so some adjustments would have to be made.
Here are some of the work done by my students.
http://fashiondrapingportfolio.blogspot.com/
http://taram1991.googlepages.com/home
http://poet.annyb.googlepages.com/home
http://thehourofthehourglassshape.pbwiki.com/
http://opprofesslevel.pbwiki.com/Front+Bodice+Drape+Pictures
These were done as homework assignments, hope you like them.
Allyson McDowell
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Permalink Reply by Britt Gow on
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Hello Mubiru,
I am a Maths and Science teacher at a small rural school in south-west Victoria, Australia. I, like the previous reply, would be happy to mentor another teacher in Africa. I visited Kenya and Tanzania last year, but have never been to Uganda. What ages are your students and how many years do they spend at school?
Perhaps http://www.worldteach.org/ could be of assistance?
Best Regards, Britt Gow
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Hi Britt, Thank you so much for your contribution , and concern
I have just checked the website but I have not got what I had wanted. My students are aged between 13-19 years both are boys , and girls . At secondary level they spend 6 years , at vocational it ranges from 2 -3 years. I will put you intouch with a math teacher in our school such that you can mentor her, lastly invite you to check on our website : www.kikaayacollegeschool.net
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Dear Mubiru,
I have been thinking about your problem attracting volunteer teachers to your school. Although it would be an ideal opportunity for many young people to experience another culture and practise their teaching, it is more difficult for older people (like myself) to leave their families for extended periods. Some people may also be concerned about their safety and security in developing countries. There are companies that offer volunteer opportunites abroad with the support of experienced staff. One such company is:
http://www.i-to-i.com/volunteer-projects/teach-inn-uganda.html
I think you will need to approach one of these companies and form a partnership that will allow them to offer your school as a location for volunteers. I wish you all the best in your school.
Best Regards, Britt Gow.
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Permalink Reply by Sue Palmer on
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Dear Mubiru:
I wish you the best of luck in your challenges. I am a high school history teacher and creator of a site where I host podcasts for students and teachers to use to help with their school subjects. I use them with my students and they are free to be shared by all. You are welcome to use anything on the site with your students, and I would be willing to try to find content that may be helpful in other areas. The podcasts are in English which may help if the language is part of your curriculum. I will be adding to the World History section over the summer and into the early fall. Currently we have podcasts in Ancient World History as well as US History. We also have other subjects as well which I have compiled from other sources.
I would be happy to talk to you about anything I can do to help your students. My email is masterymaze@gmail.com, or you can email me through this site, or the Contact page in the Maze.
Sue Palmer
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Permalink Reply by International Language Lab Center, I.L.L on
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Volunteer Teaching Program opportunities in I.L.L Temara.Morocco
OUR MISSION : Growth – Change – Experience
Founded in 2006, I.L.L offers customized internship, teach and volunteer programs for students and graduates in and outside of the USA. We are also a leader in international education. Each year we change lives of over 10,000 participants.
OUR EXPERTISE : Placement – Support – Diversity
We specialize in a variety of programs to answer every individual need, and we act on what we believe by providing high-quality placements and 24/7 personal assistance prior, during and after your experience.
If you enjoy working with children and want to get some valuable teaching experience under your belt, volunteer teaching abroad could be the ideal travel option for you. Reap the benefits of gaining valuable life experience, while absorbing a fascinating local culture and interacting with local children to help develop their future.
If you’re thinking about volunteering to teach English abroad and have no teaching experience, don’t worry!
As an English teacher in Moroco most volunteers will work alongside as an English teacher helping our learners such as pronunciation and general conversation.
However, the teacher often encourages you to take the lead role in the classroom, since their level of English is almost always lower than the volunteers’. Therefore, you will often find yourself leading the class, sometimes on your own.
Standing up in front of class for the first time can seem like a frightening experience, particularly as most of our volunteers have no previous teaching experience. To help prepare our volunteers we provide them with a teaching introduction, teaching handbook and materials as part of our induction weekend. We also try to make sure that inexperienced volunteers are eased in gradually, that they are not left to teach on there own at the start of there placement and allow them to work in pairs if they wish.
For several years volunteers with no teaching experience have successfully taught with us and we find that volunteers quickly become confident as teachers. So if you have ever considered teaching as a career this is an excellent opportunity to practice your teaching skills. As a volunteer with Travel to Teach, all it takes is a little bit of initiative, creativity and desire to make a difference in the world, be with us in our International English Center.
To participate in the program, please ask to speak with Mr Joe on 00212-37-64-01-82 or send an email to contact@languagelabcenter.com
Project/Volunteer's Life:
Volunteer in the teaching English project in Morocco mostly teach conversational English (2) hours a day) in our school for 6 days a week. Most of the students of the school are between the ages of 6 and 13. Volunteers will be assisted by other teachers of the school. In your free time, you can organize games, drawing, singing, and other creative education and extracurricular activities. Volunteers help is also expected to make an educational activities, helping them with homework, to monitor academic progress, and in administration.
Skills and Qualification
Though no teaching experience or skill is needed, volunteers joining the teaching program in Morocco in our school should have good English, both written and verbal. Volunteers are expected to be flexible and patient. You should have passion and love for teaching, English and conversation.
Meals/Accommodations:
I.L.L Volunteer Program manages room/food (consisting of local fare) for volunteers. Volunteers live in a hostel, simple, clean and modest room as well as local meals three times a day. Volunteer will also have 24/7 access to our office in Morocco and mobile number of our coordinators. Our staffs also visit volunteers in each 1-2 week interval as a part of the program. Details covering living accommodations provided prior to arrival.
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