This project changed the Canadian and Kenyan teachers' approaches to education for the remainder of their careers and will enrich a generation of children in Canada and Kenya.
In March 2019, a unique Vocational Training Team (VTT) funded by The Rotary Foundation travelled from Canada to Kenya. This project brought six secondary school teachers and their Rotarian team leader to Kenya. The team had qualifications and experience in applying computer technology in their teaching methods. The goal of this project was to enhance learning about integrating computer-based teaching methodologies. The team worked with teaching professionals from schools in Kenya and professors from the South East Kenya University. One team member stated "I observed Margret’s Form 1 class on the extraction of oil from nuts. Margaret deftly handled a class of 60 students with only enough equipment for three working groups – 20 kids to a station! Margaret brought in 21st century skills by integrating computer assisted learning to preview the lesson, and then using a mix and mingle game to change it up." Another team member explained how Kristina set up the local network device and showed other teachers how to access it on their phones, tablets, and laptops. A team member said watching our Kenyan colleagues embrace technology, brain breaks, and learning games was a breath of fresh air. I remember how Andy demystified the computer by opening one up and showing us the parts – this brought anxiety levels for several participants down. This project changed the Canadian and Kenyan teachers' approaches to education for the remainder of their careers and will enrich a generation of children in Canada and Kenya. This project was funded by a Rotary Foundation Global Grant, matching funds from the Government of Canada and Rotary clubs in District 5040. The VTT demonstrates the remarkable transformations The Rotary Foundation does make in communities. The Rotary Foundation is Doing Good in the World! |