In pursuit of fostering extracurricular activities in secondary and high-school public educational institutions within the Tanger-Tétouan-Al Hoceima region, PVE for Peace facilitated a series of training workshops and mentorship sessions for educators. These workshops, focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) extracurricular activities, were held from April to June 2022 across Tétouan, Tanger, Larache, Ouezzane, and Chefchaouen. This initiative aligns with the broader project “Education and Training for Employability,” executed by the ATIL-CODESPA Consortium and funded through the Millennium Challenge Corporation via the Millennium Challenge Account-Morocco.
Empowering Educators to Promote STEM Activities Inside their Schools
The primary goal of the training sessions conducted by PVE for Peace was to empower teachers who lead school clubs in incorporating STEM-based activities. These workshops aimed to equip educators and teachers with the necessary skills to:
- Utilize a STEM activity guide developed by ATIL, enabling them to propose engaging activities within their school clubs.
- Employ the facilitator’s guide to identify relevant STEM competencies for their students.
- Select STEM activities that best suit their students’ needs.
- Adapt the proposed activities according to their unique classroom context and student level.
- Employ the latest facilitation techniques and approaches to promote STEM activities in their school clubs.
These objectives were transformed into engaging activities that were both relevant to the participants and integrated an inductive approach. This approach facilitated collaborative and participatory knowledge and skill enhancement.
The Coaching Sessions Inside Schools
PVE for Peace went to 13 different schools to coach teachers inside their classes. These coaching sessions were divided into two parts. The first part entailed the presentation of the STEM methodology and activities contained within the guide, collaborative planning of the workshop’s activities with the teachers, and preparation for the hands-on session. The second part involved practical exercises, with PVE for Peace guiding the teachers through the process of conducting these activities with their students. The practical exercises included giving instructions to students, guiding them through the activity process, and engaging them in group work to apply their STEM skills in real life contexts.
Long-Term Impact
The overall impact of these coaching sessions was positive. Teachers and students alike expressed their enthusiasm for the methodology and the acquired skills. The workshops laid the foundation for a sustained partnership between educators, students, and PVE for Peace.
As this initiative progresses, it is essential to continue refining the training model, expanding the scope of activities, and deepening collaboration with educators and students. By investing in STEM education and fostering a culture of inquiry and innovation, PVE for Peace contributes to the holistic development of students and strengthens the region’s educational landscape.
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