Education Update #02

EDUCATION UPDATE #02

F

you to at least consider some of the ideas presented; make them your own but do not be afraid to reach out and ask for help either.

Change is good; as the MUT article in this edition reiterates, in small doses, sure, but it can be good. We encourage

As educators and our philanthropic nature, we have a constant desire to give but there is nothing wrong with being on the receiving end either. Let me be clear. Receiving does not mean accepting without questioning – just like our students, even as young as new-borns Dr Bonello argues, you are not blank slates, empty vessels needing to be filled – you are professionals in your own right, who equally need time and space to reflect, question and yes, learn. In fact, IfE, one of the contributors in this second edition, offer a myriad of learning opportunities for pre-service, in-service and seasoned educators alike, from individuallyaccredited modules to full blown Bachelor and Master’s degrees. Learning is truly a choice spurred perhaps out of need.

Now whether that need is internal or external is perhaps irrelevant at this point. We all endured two agonising

or the newbies amongst us, Education Update is a newspaper with updated information on what’s happening in education locally as well as off our shores. Education is, or should be at least, everyone’s responsibility and at the heart of any reforms happening and so, keeping our all of our main stakeholders (i.e. educators, parents, students and community at large) up to speed, upskilled and ready to tackle yet another scholastic year of unknowns is a task we firmly believe in and which we do not take lightly. As educators, parents and researchers ourselves, Kenneth and I know first-hand how difficult (if not impossible) it is to do some side reading to avoid getting stuck in that metaphorical rut of that comfort zone which can be comfortable, sure, but stagnates that enthusiast of an educator you know you are and gives you that boost you so need.

years of unprecedented pandemic times, where we (had to) learn what MS TEAMS is, where we realised that we suddenly have the magical power to mute all our students at the touch of a button (or they mute us with you realising at the end of the lesson!), and so in this edition, Robocoach offers some valuable advice regarding online distance learning which we can all relate to. For the researchers amongst us, Dr Robert Vella shares ways on how one can present research findings using performance and dramaturgical praxis. Ms Jana Vella, a newly qualified teacher, discusses the importance of language across the curriculum making reference to her study with science teachers in particular.

In a world of Tik Toks, another interesting article outlining their outreach programmes, we join FSWS’s mission of raising awareness amongst our young ones about abuse through creative play and imagination. This is yet another role the educator plays; of protector of our young breed. These hats and

PAMELA ZERAFA

EDITORS’ NOTE

KENNETH VELLA

2nd October 2021

responsibilities can take their toll and the educator is no exception, so, the article written by the GWU aptly encourages us to see educators as professionals without losing sight of their being human, nonetheless. This is not a distinction; on the contrary, in seeing the educator as a whole, as a human and professional, we truly embrace the sense of vocation this mission demands. As you embark on a new scholastic year, we genuinely hope it will be a fruitful one for you and the ones entrusted in our care. Let it be a learning experience for all of us.

Education Update, printed bimonthly (from recycled paper!) is mailed to stationery shops (because educators never have enough stationery!) around Malta and Gozo, and schools. It is also distributed to educational institutions and entities which are directly linked to our world of education. We hope you enjoy reading our second edition and feel free to drop us a line via email: educationupdate. mt@gmail.com; any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

A lot of things are changing.

So has the way you can open your HSBC Student Account.

Apply online today.    

Free Online Banking* Free Mobile Banking App* Free Visa International Debit Card* Discounted fee on withdrawals from other bank’s ATMs

hsbc.com.mt/student

*These services are free for all HSBC clients.

Approved and issued by HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c., 116, Archbishop Street, Valletta VLT1444 which is a public limited company regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority and licensed to carry out the business of banking in terms of the Banking Act (Cap.371 of the Laws of Malta). Terms and conditions may apply. (Ref No. 114146 – 06/21)

Education-2.indd 1

01/10/2021 11:44

02 | EDUCATION UPDATE

THE INSTITUTE FOR EDUCATION

Commitment to Excellence

Contributing to the formation of future generations is a huge responsibility as it involves being proactive and forward looking. There is no crystal ball that informs what competencies will be required to function effectively and yet children are entitled to an education that prepares them for what they will encounter in ten, fifteen or twenty years’ time. How is this possible?

T

he

JOANNE GRIMA CEO

popularity of this programme is demonstrated as it is always full in under three minutes from the time applications open. Another option available is the new Master of Science in STEM Education and Engagement. This degree was developed and will be delivered in collaboration

Institute

progressive

for

Education

institution

that

is

that

(5) Postgraduate Certificates and sixty-five

with MCST and the workshops will be held at

to

(65) accredited short programmes pegged to

the enchanting premises of Esplora among all the scientific artifacts.

aims

develop professional development that

the Malta Qualifications Framework. Most of

will equip educators holistically so that they

the qualifications target those who would like

can in turn provide an educational experience

to become fully qualified teachers. Those who

In September 2021 the Institute for Education

that will enable growth and support continuous

have an MQF Level 4 certificate may opt to

held

learning. The educator that develops through

follow any one of the Bachelor Degrees such as

year it was about Technology Enhanced and

the Institute for Education is that person

Biology, European Studies, Physical Education,

Remote Teaching and Learning and the themes

who has both the knowledge of the subject

Agribusiness, Primary or any other one on the

that have been explored were be about the

and

a

list. Those who already hold a Bachelor Degree

learning

learning environment suitable for a diverse

in a subject which is in the curriculum, can

methods and the perception and preparation

audience. This educator believes that each

follow a Postgraduate Diploma at MQF 7 in the

of

child has personalised needs which have to be

subject area of the Bachelor Degree. Some of

Professor of Technology Enhanced Learning at

understood and quenched. As the philosophy of

the areas offered are in Science, Humanities,

the University of Lancaster was the keynote

the Institute for Education is that everyone can

Mathematics,

Physical

speaker. Furthermore, the Malta Journal of

continuously improve and take up a challenge

Education, Health and Social Care, Business and

Education which is the yearly publication of

if taught to do so from the early stages, the

Retail and others. Upon successful completion,

peer reviewed articles was issued and all

educator that emerges from this institution will

this person would be eligible to apply for the

the individual articles in the journal can be

have a growth mindset and resiliency that will

position of regular teacher. Moreover, the

downloaded from https://instituteforeducation.

enable the maturing of the adaptable lifelong

Postgraduate Diploma includes the first 60

gov.mt/en/Pages/Malta%20Journal%20of%20

learner capable of seizing all opportunities to

ECTS out of the Master Degree. Thus, one also

Education/MJE2021-Vol-02-No-01.aspx .

grow.

has the opportunity to continue one’s studies

the

strategies

required

to

create

English,

Maltese,

its

second

tools,

educators

annual

teaching and

symposium.

and

learners.

This

assessment Don

Passey,

to obtain a full Master Degree whilst working.

The Institute for Education has not been around

The Institute for Education’s mission statement

Apart from this, those who already hold a

long and yet has managed to create several

states that it promotes high quality education

teaching degree in a particular subject, now

courses and be innovative in the processes and

for educators and learners at all levels. By

have the opportunity to follow a Postgraduate

content. More is yet to come and anyone who

collaborating

it

Certificate in a subject within a similar area

wishes to know more about what we do with

fosters learning communities of the highest

with

all

its

stakeholders,

and consequently be considered as a regular

passion can look us up on ife.gov.mt.

standard whilst also delivering education based

teacher of more than one subject.

on equity and social justice. This further and higher education institution started offering

For those educators aspiring to further develop

qualifications in 2016 and enrolled twenty-

their professional competences and skills, the

six course participants. The first qualification

Institute for Education also offers a Master’s

was the Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching

Degree in Applied Educational Leadership.

and Learning the Primary. Since then, the

This qualification is targeted towards those

Institute for Education proceeded in its growth

who want to become leaders in an educational

and is presently offering nineteen (19) Master

setting such as a Head of School. It is relevant

Degrees, twelve (12) Bachelor Degrees, five

to the work place and very practical. The

Education-2.indd 2

01/10/2021 11:44

EDUCATION UPDATE | 03

ONLINE AND DISTANCE LEARNING The transition to online distance learning due to COVID-19 was sudden and hurried at the time, but all things considered, it’s been a positive experience so far.

Thanks to various technology we have managed to stay in touch with our students, colleagues, family, and friends. Most of us have realised that the advancement of technology is useful and meaningful when really needed. I believe everyone young and not so young has discovered something new through these means of communication.

In many ways, it feels as if we’ve been on track for this for some time, with virtual classroom and online sessions where educators work endlessly to bring school and education to our homes and will continue to build on these type of learning platforms to reach out to all.

What is the basic concept of distance learning?

ABBY CAMILLERI PEARSON

What are the disadvantages?

Online learning and courses require you to be

Communicating remotely for teaching purposes

responsible for your own learning so as much as

can be done in different ways and applied

we believe it is an advantage for some to progress

to different categories of learners (students,

it may be daunting for others. Online learning

educators,

with

gives you too much freedom if you are not self-

different objectives for each category. The digital

professionals,

executives),

disciplined. The teacher is not there to prompt

environment should be adapted to the specific

you to pay attention and therefore you might not

needs of this audience. There are common aspects

keep yourself on track. Some people find it hard to

in all types of remote communication such as

understand when they are not physically engaged

the use of cameras, microphones, the virtual

with the teacher. You need to be an active learner

classroom, the sharing document space, and a few

to be able to learn and if you are not, you will

more. In all cases, there are two basic concepts in

not learn as effectively. Online learning can cause

distance learning: asynchronous learning (where

social isolation. It requires strong self-motivation

the two parts aren’t communicating in real-time)

and time management skills.

and synchronous learning (where the two parts communicate in real-time).

What opportunities does online learning bring?

What are the advantages of distance learning?

Studying with a university abroad. Opportunity to build your own career, Career advancement and

You can learn from the comfort of your home.

hobbies. Opportunity to have a job and study at

Some people learn better in online environments

the same time.

compared to traditional classroom settings. Class environments have a lot of distractions while at home one can focus on the concept being taught.

When you are unwell, you can still follow a lesson from home.

What would you suggest or believe is the best approach to distance learning?

self-paced

Although the concepts of virtual classrooms and

learning. Self-paced learning means that the

distance learning have become quite popular in the

students can start completing the targets at any

last few years, they really entered the lives of most

time and can arrange a learning schedule that

teachers and students due to the COVID-19 crisis.

meets individual needs. Every student has his or

As a result, it’s of great importance to providing

her way of learning so this is beneficial for different

all stakeholders of an educational institution (IT,

learning patterns since they can work at their own

administration, educators, students) with the

pace and time and not feel pressure to catch-up

appropriate tools and guidelines to create a digital

with the rest of the class. They can access the

environment that will cover the specific needs of

information at any time of the day.

teachers and students.

asynchronous

learning

allows

for

parts

A mixture of both synchronous and asynchronous

the

learning platforms are the most important tools

opportunity to get immediate answers to your

that educational institutions can put in place

queries. One-to-one attention to help and guide

for creating a fully functional distance learning

you through your learning journey. This concept

environment that will resemble, as much as

allows

self-

possible, the physical classroom, and at the same

motivation, and communication. For example,

time help students to build their future digital

you’ll need to communicate – whether verbally or

skills.

synchronous communicate

you

learning in

to

(where

real-time).

develop

the Gives

two you

self-discipline,

written – with your teachers and peers regularly.

This will sharpen your communication skills and

robocoach can offer consultancy on different types of

offers more opportunities to foster critical thinking

online management solutions. Student Information

skills since you will need to be an active learner.

System (SIS), School Management System (SMS) & Learning Management System (LMS).

Education-2.indd 3

01/10/2021 11:44

www.kieurope.com/postura

EAR

T Y

N

R R A

THE UK’S #1 SCHOOL CHAIR

THE UK’S #1 SCHOOL CHAIR TRIED, TESTED & PROVEN SINCE 1996

SY AN EA LE C

TRIED, TESTED & PROVEN SINCE 1996

W

A

20

T Y

EAR

N

Y

W

A

20

TO

Y

04 | EDUCATION UPDATE

R R A

Launched in 1996, KI’s iconic Postura+ chair was the first one-piece polypropylene chair created specifically for education environments. Today, it is used by millions of students all over the world. Comfortable & practical, it is the only chair in its class to outlive its 20 year warranty. With no moving parts or high-wear materials, they are low maintenance, easy to clean and suitable for occasional outdoor use.

Postura+ is also available in a family of specialist seating products for all types of learning spaces:

Available from Audio Visual Centre Ltd | Tel. 21330886 | Email info@avc.com.mt

MOE-Malta-2021.indd 1 Education-2.indd 4

07/09/2021 16:14:20 01/10/2021 11:44

EDUCATION UPDATE | 05

KEEP IT MOVING

HOW TO IMPROVE STUDENT COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE THROUGH MOVEMENT

F

irst things first - this is not going to be an

before

neurodivergence.

and retain information. What’s more, these

article about exercise, obesity or sports!

Students might start to fidget and activate their

breaks can enhance creativity and social skills beyond structured learning.

even

factoring

in

Sure, exercise is a form of movement,

brains, but this movement might be regarded

but we are going to focus on movement more

as disruptive and unwelcome, so the student

generally. Movement is vital for our cognitive

will curtail their own fidgeting or may even be

function, so we are going to look at how we

reprimanded. Here are some ways we can try

can bring more of it into our everyday lives.

to address the situation - so students can start

Sitting still and paying attention might be

Younger children in particular benefit because

to develop good habits and enjoy the benefits

what we are conditioned to do as students,

movement has beneficial effects on short and

of movement immediately, and throughout

but it is counterproductive. Movement ‘turns

longer-term development. It’s important to note

their lives:

on’ the brain. Find ways to make the learning

that whilst this is particularly applicable to those with certain conditions such as attention deficit

1. Before and/or after school

3. During lessons

experience itself more active, less passive.

Lessons that encourage learner participation and demonstration can lead to better learning

hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the benefits of movement apply to all of us - neurotypical or

Encourage playful, imaginative, fun, creative

outcomes because of the positive effects on

neurodivergent, and at any age.

activities. They help bodies and minds develop,

cognition and memory derived from doing,

foster creativity and can help with socialisation.

rather than reading or seeing.

There is a lot of research showing how

These activities also have a positive effect on

movement is essential for the development

performance long after ‘playtime’ is over. We

The interior design of learning spaces can also

of our sensory systems from a young age.

are all more sedentary, attentions fixed to our

contribute. Moveable and height-adjustable

Play and physical activity are essential for

smartphones, smart TVs or laptop screens. This

tables can make a space flexible and dynamic

developing the senses and muscles we need to

makes real life, physical activities ever more

to support different activities through the day.

be in command of our bodies. In Valerie Strauss’

important. Indoors or outdoors, depending on

Diverse seating types can also allow students

article “Why so many kids can’t sit still in school

the space available - facilitate sports, games,

to find a preferred option, or even change

today” paediatric occupational therapist Angela

gardening, arts & crafts, fantasy, roleplay. Make

throughout

Hanscom discusses how a lack of movement

it fun and interesting and the cognitive benefits

are obviously important but offering variety

has led to children having underdeveloped

will follow.

and freedom can really help to create a more

vestibular (balance) systems:

2. Between lessons

the

day.

Excellent

ergonomics

inclusive, enjoyable and high-performing space.

“…when compared to children from the early 1980s, only one out of twelve children had

Whether at school or learning-from-home,

The Ricochet Wobble Stool is produced by KI

normal strength and balance.”

breaktimes and lunchtimes are important.

Europe and is available from their distributor

Children should get up, move around, recharge

Audio Visual Centre Ltd. For trade enquires

This means that very few students have the

their brains ready for the next part of the day.

please call on 21330886 or email

physiological ability to sit still and pay attention,

It is essential for their ability to pay attention

info@avc.com.mt

Education-2.indd 5

01/10/2021 11:44

06 | EDUCATION UPDATE

SUPPORTING STUDENTS AND TEACHERS TO MEET THE LANGUAGE CHALLENGE IN CONTENT SUBJECTS

JANA VELLA

This research was inspired by the recognition that language cuts across the school curriculum, as it is the mode through which all subjects are taught, learnt, and assessed.

I

This article was based on a dissertation presented in the Faculty of Education at the University of Malta for the degree of Master in Teaching and Learning, entitled: ‘Supporting students and teachers

n fact, competence in the ‘lan-

es is: how can a teacher whose

Dimension in all Subjects (LPU,

guage of schooling’ has been

subject is taught through English

2016).

proven to be a determining

help his or her students develop

factor for academic success (Lo-

their literacy skills and achieve

The final and most important step

References:

renzo & Meyer, 2017, p. 153),

the Learning Outcome, while also

of this research was conduct-

and has recently been identified

looking out for underperforming

ing interviews with four science

by the Committee of Ministers in

students?

teachers. These interviews re-

Camilleri Grima, A. (2016). Bilingualism in education in Malta [Editorial].

Malta Review of Educational Research, 10(2), 177-179.

the Council of Europe as the crux

vealed that Maltese is still prom-

of ‘equity and quality in education

Various studies suggest that the

inent in science lessons and that

and […] educational success’ (LPU,

answer lies in Literacy Across the

while teachers are aware of and

2016, p. 5). This creates a tangible

Curriculum, which proposes ‘the

often tackle the lexical difficulties

challenge for students whose first

integration of language and con-

of science at word level, support-

language (or mother tongue) does

tent in content subjects, through

ing difficulties at sentence level

not match the language of school-

the planning and structuring of

is not part of regular lessons. A

ing, as is the case in Malta.

language activities into content

positive finding was that teachers

classrooms’ (Tan, 2011, p. 327).

deemed the language scaffolds

Local studies describe how some

This study analyses the practical-

to be effective and were gener-

teachers who teach a content

ity of such an approach by cre-

ally positive about the possibility

subject that is taught through

ating language scaffolds – ways

of using them in class, although

English (such as Science), make

of making accessible the poten-

concerns about time constraints

recourse to Maltese to mediate

tially difficult language in course

were expressed.

the

that

books. To conduct this small-scale

arise for students who struggle

study, the literacy requirements

Some conclusions may be drawn.

with

Grima,

of Malta’s science LOF and the

Firstly, students need to be sup-

2016, Mifsud & Farrugia, 2017).

language of the Year 7 textbook

ported in recognising English as

Unfortunately,

methods

in state schools (KS3 Science,

a tool, rather than a stumbling

such as codeswitching may fa-

K1) were analysed and scaffolds

block. Secondly, content teachers

cilitate understanding, they do

were designed to reduce the lan-

need to be supported to meet the

not strengthen students’ English

guage load. These scaffolds were

challenge that English as a medi-

literacy skills, which are neces-

based on three language support

um of instruction might pose on

sary both for independent study

models that have been success-

their lessons. To this end, future

and assessment purposes. More-

fully applied in diverse contexts,

research could focus on develop-

over, the increasingly multilingual

namely

Instruction

ing a model of sharing language

classes raise questions on the

Observation Protocol (Echevar-

scaffolding strategies with teach-

viability of this strategy (Spiteri,

ría et al, 2017,) Reading to Learn

ers across the curriculum for a

2019).

(Rose, 2007) and the Language

whole school approach.

Education-2.indd 6

language English

challenges (Camilleri while

The question that aris-

Sheltered

to meet the language challenge in content subjects.’

Echevarria, J., Vogt, M. & Short, D. (2017). Making Content Comprehensible for English Learners: The SIOP Model. Pearson.

Greenway, T., Oliver, R., Taylor, D. (2008). KS3 Science Book 1 (E. Walsh, Ed.). Harper Collins Publishers.

Language Policy Unit, DGII – Directorate General of Democracy, Council of Europe. (2016). The Language Dimension in All Subjects: A Handbook for curriculum development and teacher training.

Lorenzo, Francisco, & Meyer, Oliver.

(2017). Languages of Schooling: Explorations into Disciplinary Literacies: An Introduction. European Journal of Applied Linguistics, 5(2), 153-156.

Mifsud, J. & Farrugia, J. (2017). Language choice for science education: policy and practice. The Curriculum Journal 28(1), 83-104.

Rose, D. (2007). A Reading based model of schooling. Pesquisas em Discurso Pedagógico, 4(2), 1-17.

Spiteri, D. (2019). English for All: Repositioning English across the curriculum. Malta Review of Educational Research, 13(2), 194-208.

Tan, M. (2011). Mathematics and science teachers’ beliefs and practices regarding the teaching of language in content learning. Language Teaching Research, 15(3), 325-342.

01/10/2021 11:44

EDUCATION UPDATE | 07

Prevention is better than cure.

These might be some questions that parents and educators alike may pose for themselves when conversing with children, especially when the topic in question is deemed a controversial one like alcohol use, drugs, or child abuse.

Children’s innocence radiates through their laughter, play, and crafts, and we want to do our utmost to keep them wrapped up in a world of rainbows. Pretending that certain realities do not exist does not guarantee safety for all. However, talking about such topics with children should not come at the expense of their mental wellbeing.

Addictions Basic Education Studies. T.F.A.L. 3’s aims are to provide the necessary basic life skills

“

“

Am I teaching them well?

Are they supposed to know these things?

How do I answer this question appropriately?

ERIKA SCIBERRAS

PREVENTION PROFESSIONAL

T.F.A.L. 5

through discussion, use of character-puppets,

A relatively new programme that was piloted

story-telling techniques, and song singing, as

between March and May 2019, and subsequent-

well as alerting students about where, when, and

ly implemented on a national level from Octo-

who to approach for help. The use of puppets is

ber 2019, T.F.A.L. 5 targets children in Year 5.

deemed most appropriate since this programme

This programme is the follow up of the T.F.A.L 3

targets children between 6-8 years. During the

programme. Its aims are to emphasise the im-

sessions, students and teachers alike visit the

portance of basic life skills and explain correct

world of Pudding Heights where our famous 7

information about substances. T.F.A.L. 5’s pro-

puppets live. The creation of the puppets and a

gramme also helps children understand how to

separate world is deemed necessary as through

handle situations effectively by using adaptive

creative play and imagination, children are en-

coping techniques without succumbing to the al-

couraged to think critically about the situations

lure of any relevant addiction.

the puppets face.

PowerPoint presentations, interactive games, Children are given a thorough description of

videos, and a workbook’s are simultaneously

the puppets’ world so that they immerse them-

used during the sessions. This programme helps

Imparting accurate, age-appropriate knowl-

selves in a safe zone outside of the reality they

children to support positive views of themselves

edge about addictions is one of the prima-

are living in. This comfortable setting promotes

and their abilities. It also fosters children’s per-

ry aims of Agenzija Sedqa’s scholastic pro-

trust and experience sharing. Additionally, the 7

sonal growth by teaching them how to keep ev-

grammes; T.F.A.L. 3 and T.F.A.L. 5. Standing

puppets are endowed with particular and differ-

ery aspect in perspective, how to manage emo-

as an abbreviation for Tfal Favur Ambjent Li-

ent characteristics to make easy to relate to for

tions, and how to build on strengths. Students

beru (Children for an Addiction-free World), the

the children and people in general as possible.

learn how to respond in peer pressure situations

T.F.A.L. programmes seek to empower students

For example one of the puppets adopts a pas-

and to make decisions suitable for them. The

as important citizens of society worthy to be

sive-aggressive approach to problem-solving,

sessions also help students learn better ways

heard, and emphasise their responsibility for

another one is portrayed as the pusher or the

to interpret and understand the effects alcohol,

rational thought. All the T.F.A.L. programmes

bully of the group. Puppets are endowed with

drugs, use of technology and gambling carry.

are delivered by Prevention Professionals with

these particular characteristics in order to allow

The main objective is to aid students on how

backgrounds in Humanities subjects such as

children to practice their responses on the pup-

these substance and behaviours may develop in

psychology, social work, and counselling. Our

pets.

addictions which subsequently can have a signif-

Prevention Professionals apply their expertise

icant impact on their lives.

during the sessions to elicit students’ critical

The T.F.A.L. 3 programme in Malta is delivered

thinking and empathic potential to discuss top-

to all schools and all year 3 classes, includ-

This Year 5 programme consists of 5 sessions

ics such as decision-making, coping skills, ad-

ing state schools, private schools, and church

which are delivered over the span of 5 weeks.

dictions, and wise use of technology.

schools. This Year 3 programme consists of 6

Students from different classes are kept sep-

sessions which are delivered over the span of 6

arate and in their own home class in order to

weeks. Students from different classes are kept

ensure that the sensitive topics are delivered in

T.F.A.L. 3

separate and in their own home class in order to

a safe zone wherein they may feel comfortable

This programme is probably the one readers

ensure that the sensitive topics are delivered in

sharing their troubles and experiences.

are most familiar with, previously answering to

a safe zone wherein they may feel comfortable

the name B.A.B.E.S. – Beginning Alcohol and

sharing their troubles and experiences.

Education-2.indd 7

01/10/2021 11:44

08 | EDUCATION UPDATE

Esplora LAUNCHING A NEW SCHOOL EDUCATION PROGRAMME

DR JEFFREY PULLICINO ORLANDO

EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, MALTA COUNCIL FOR SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Over the past months we have deeply missed having the Science Centre bustling with school children of all ages because of the pandemic.

Notwithstanding, Esplora continued to offer valuable educational content to schools, including informative blogs, a virtual tour, videos, online workshops, online science shows, and a whole television series aimed at primaryaged kids entitled ‘Ġina u l-Esploraturi’, which was aired on TVM.

W

e

are

now

looking

forward

to

the

upcoming scholastic year and a chance

to welcome you back physically at our Science Centre in Kalkara over the coming months.

Esplora

has

recently

launched

its

new

Education Programme with all the workshops, science shows, and planetarium shows on offer for schools for 2021-2022. The Education Programme is a useful tool for educators planning a visit to Esplora with their students.

The document itself will guide you along in your choice for activities which are adapted for different age groups. These can be booked during different months and they are relevant to the curriculum the students are following at school.

One of the workshops offered to kindergarten students is ‘Shapebird’. Within this workshop, students embark on an adventure to learn more about birds. They will discover the fascinating world of birds and nests filled with curious looking eggs. While solving the different challenges, each student will have the opportunity to work on their colour recognition and counting skills for a chance to get a glimpse of the mythical creature, the Shape Bird.

Education-2.indd 8

01/10/2021 11:44

EDUCATION UPDATE | 09

On the other hand, ‘Superhero in

For students coming from Junior

Keeping in mind that due to the

In

You’ is one of the science shows on

Schools,

pandemic

can

consumption of paper, this year’s

offer for primary students. Through

a workshop that one should not

change according to public health

programme will be accessible online

this engaging show, students will

miss as it engages learners in a

requirements, we have planned for

through the esplora website (www.

be introduced to some of the most

fun discussion about stereotypes in

every possibility and Esplora will be

esplora.org.mt). If you would need

amazing

superpowers

through

‘Catch

them

Young’

is

situation

things

our

efforts

to

reduce

the

the scientific fields. Together with

able to continue offering its popular

any further information or assistance

has

the communicators, students will

activities unhindered. If physical

in securing your booking, kindly get

made using science. The science

find out ways of how to make fact-

visits are no longer possible, we can

in touch with our bookings office

communicator uses a number of

based decisions and identify skills

offer a number of workshops and

on 23602299 or send an email to

amusing

discoveries

that

humanity

the

which could help them venture into

science shows virtually. However,

bookings@esplora.org.mt. Keep an

students themselves can interact

experiments

that

the fields of Science, Technology,

once on-site visits are permitted,

eye out for our updates by following

with during the show.

Engineering and Mathematics.

we invite you to pay a visit and take

our Facebook page www.facebook.

advantage of the foremost informal

com/esploramalta.

educational

experience

being

offered in Malta.

You can also find links to all the episodes of Ġina u l-Esploraturi

We are also appreciative of the

aired on TVM here: esplora.org.mt/

invaluable work done by all local

gina-u-l-esploraturi/

educators and, in recognition of this, we kindly remind you that throughout the year, you and your

Together with you, our

are

teachers and other profes-

entitled to free admission to Esplora.

sionals working in the field,

Besides this benefit, free transport

Esplora shall continue to of-

to and from Esplora shall once

fer high quality non-formal

again be offered to all State Schools

STEM engagement activities

throughout the upcoming scholastic

to students. Our primary

year with the support of the Ministry

aim is to cultivate a culture

immediate

family

for Education.

members

of scientific curiosity and creativity in our little explorers. We look forward to seeing you all at Esplora!

Education-2.indd 9

01/10/2021 11:44

10 | EDUCATION UPDATE

GABRIEL PULLICINO

GWU - HOSPITALITY AND FOOD SERVICES SECTION

Professional Educators are Human Educators too

T

The professional educator:

an education policy based on students and educators. It

make sure that learning happens in the best way possible. And let us put it this way, ev-

is essential to create systems that take care of the stu-

eryone wants their children to be taught by professionals who are qualified, dedicated, and

dent, but it is equally important to have resources that

equipped with the best knowledge. It’s important to remember that all educators want to

focus on the growth and empowerment of the educator.

do this in a race against time on the racetrack called curriculum with social and educational

Because if we empower educators, we will indirectly em-

structures that change overnight.

o have sustainable education and build a robust

To become an educator, one must study, go through various academic challenges, and in

social base on it, we need to focus on the people

some cases even qualify to get a warrant as an educator. But most of all, the professional

who make it. This means that we need to develop

educator must have dedication. Every day, an educator has to plan work for students and

power students.

As the saying goes, “actions speak louder than words,”

The human educator:

so I wanted to start this writing to focus and reflect on a

Like other professionals who render services to other human beings, the educators’ primary

general profile of the educator. Before I started writing,

tools are the skills they hold. That is why it is essential to focus on human educators. Ed-

I asked myself: Who are the educators? What kind of

ucators can be young people in the prime of their lives or people with dependent families;

work do they do? How important are they to the growth

both options have their commitments. Working with students requires challenging teaching

and development of our children? Can we live without

hours, preparations for the lessons and also correcting their work. Most educators continue

them? What impact does their job have on their family?

attaining their tasks after hours. Taking care of yourself, families, children or your home isn’t easy, let alone taking your work at home with you every day.

I have to admit that these questions took me back to a series of discussions I have had with various parenting

There are undoubtedly other points that are very important and should be mentioned. How-

friends. Once a friend of mine mentioned a phrase to

ever, it is crucial to recognize that educators are professionals who have worked and strug-

me, “Educators are professional workers, but first and

gled to get where they are. It is equally important to also see educators as people who have

foremost, they are human beings just like anyone else.”

personal lives like anybody else with emotions and thoughts. But most of all, we need to

With that phrase in mind, I decided to focus on: A Pro-

appreciate all educators because we entrust them with the most precious thing we have:

fessional Educator and a human educator like any other.

our children!

Education-2.indd 10

01/10/2021 11:44

EDUCATION UPDATE | 11

THE PRIORITIES OF EDUCATION Lately, there has been much discussion in the public sphere about reforms in the education sector, with terms such us “strengthening the labout market” to “improve the productivity and value-add of our workforce”, for a “more competitive and resilient economy” by “strengthening the human capital”. Among the suggestions, a twoyear extension of compulsory school age was proposed.

MARCO BONNICI Lately, there has been much discussion

But back to the labour market discussion,

in the public sphere about reforms in

the influence of businesses on education is

the education sector, with terms such us

already leading to low level training pro-

“strengthening the labout market” to “im-

grammes matching the current needs of

prove the productivity and value-add of

the business sector. This is clearly not the

our workforce”, for a “more competitive

holistic educational experience which is to

and resilient economy” by “strengthening

be provided and adding two years com-

the human capital”. Among the sugges-

pulsory education will solve nothing. As a

tions, a two-year extension of compulsory

conclusion to this short article, we would

school age was proposed.

like to propose the following from the “Na-

MUT - PRESIDENT

tional Curriculum Framework for All” of The MUT’s reaction was categorical in that

2012, which mentioned the issue in a di-

decisions about the educational system

rect way. It should make us think carefully

and educators cannot be taken through a

about the current situation.

sole interest for businesses. The educational system is bowing too much to the

“The role of education should not be that

interest of the economy at the expense of

of primarily satisfying Malta’s economic

other values and priorities. Schools are not

needs. Whilst this is acknowledged to be

producers of workers to meet the needs

important it is underlined that education

of businesses, but education should be a

should never be placed in a subservient

holistic experience being provided to indi-

role to the economy particularly if the child

viduals to enable them to reach their po-

is to be placed at the very centre of the

tential beyond employment needs.

educational system.

Contrary to some of the reporting in the

In the event that the education

news, the MUT didn’t proclaim itself against

system

the two-year extension of compulsory school

economy

age. What the union stated is simply that

system might succumb to dis-

such a critical change, along with other sug-

placed

gested reforms, cannot be made on a whim

valuation of “utilitarian”

without taking into consideration the long-

benefits above the hu-

term big picture. The MUT has been stating

man person. Such an

for years that schools have become a rat race

approach, it is un-

of one reform after another, while feedback

derlined, may re-

from previous reforms is indicating that the

sult in confusing

changes did not bring about the expected

priorities that are

outcomes. And still we go ahead with more

detrimental not

reforms, with educators experiencing reform

only to persons

fatigue given the very fast pace of change.

but

Education-2.indd 11

is

subservient

then

the

priorities

also

to

to

the

education

and

the

in the long term. It is argued, therefore, that values, social justice, respect for diversity, increasing knowledge and ensuring that fewer persons opt out of the compulsory education Cycle are

institutions

as important as the economic dimensions

and society

that the Curriculum is to address.”

01/10/2021 11:44

12 | EDUCATION UPDATE Malta has committed itself to reach

Early School Leavers and the Early Years in Malta:

WILL WE EVER START FROM THE BEGINNING?

the

ambitious

target

of

icy discourse on high-quality ECEC.

reduc-

ing early school leaving to 10% by

Learning in one life stage begets

2020. Yet, Eurostat shows that in

learning in the next. Thus, if we

2020 Malta had the highest percent-

want all children to experience ‘rich’

age (16.7%) of early school leavers

education by the age of 16, we need

(ESL) in Europe (18-24 years). In an

‘rich’ educators right from the start.

attempt to counter this stubborn-

In Malta, teachers in the primary

ly high rate of early school leavers,

and secondary sectors have a high-

a possible quick-fix solution of in-

er status, are paid more, have high-

creasing the compulsory school age

er qualifications, have accessibility

from 16 to 18 topped the headlines.

to a permanent teacher’s warrant

Experts, politicians and other stake-

leading to more pathways to career

holders put forward direct reactions.

advancement, and are regarded as

Whilst acknowledging the numerous

part of the teaching profession. This

factors that might affect the rate of

is not the case for Childcarers and

early school leaving in Malta, it is in

Kindergarten

the best interest of all children to

with the under-fives. ETUCE, the so-

look at this national concern through

cial partner in the EU representing

an early years perspective.

early childhood teachers and peda-

Educators

working

gogues, suggests that early childIf you are a homeowner, you are

hood professionals should have the

probably

foundation

same level of qualifications and the

problems are scary and lead to ma-

same status, rights and rewards as

jor structural damage. In this light,

school teachers. To this, it is apt to

it is worth exploring how the founda-

ask: Will the revised education act,

tions of education systems correlate

which is to be implemented on the

with future high rates of ESL. The

1st of October 2021, recognise and

Council Recommendation (Council

value Childcarers and Kindergarten

of the European Union, 2011) points

Educators as part of the teaching

out that ESL policies need to address

profession? If high-quality ECEC is

all levels of education through the

one of the 2021 ESL policy objec-

integration of prevention, interven-

tives, professionalising the ECEC

tion and compensation measures.

workforce in Malta is not an option.

aware

that

Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) is among the effective mea-

Professionalising the ECEC work-

sures to prevent ESL. European pol-

force goes beyond strengthening in-

icy discourse perceives high-quality

dividual practitioners’ competencies.

ECEC as a way forward to greater

Malta needs a systemic approach

economic and social returns, espe-

that starts from a competent sys-

cially concerning disadvantaged chil-

tem instead of a competent individ-

dren, early school leaving and edu-

ual. A ‘competent system’ includes

cational achievement.

possibilities for all staff to engage in joint learning and critical reflection;

DR CHARMAINE BONELLO

RESIDENT ACADEMIC LECTURER FACULTY OF EDUCATION DEPARTMENT OF EARLY CHILDHOOD AND PRIMARY EDUCATION UNIVERSITY OF MALTA

Education-2.indd 12

Malta launched an updated National

this includes sufficient paid time for

Strategy Policy for ESL, underpinned

these activities, team collaboration

by prevention, intervention and com-

and continuous pedagogical sup-

pensation measures in 2021. The

port. Early years networks and an

policy mentions the importance of

advisory governance group formed

tackling the risk factors of ESL from

by stakeholder groups and sectors

the initial stages of children’s edu-

in ECEC are needed to co-create

cational journeys through high-qual-

over-arching policies and develop

ity service provision. In an attempt

strategic actions plans that are ef-

to operationalise ‘quality’ ECEC, it

fectively implemented through the

has been identified as a multi-di-

required policy infrastructure.

mensional

construct

underpinned

by governance quality, structural

If Malta wants to reach the ambitious

quality, process quality and access

new target to reduce ESL to 9% by

quality leading to positive outcomes

2030, it is crucial to invest more in

for all children. This article taps on

ECEC. Malta needs to address the

structural quality, with a particular

foundation gaps in all dimensions of

focus on a highly qualified work-

quality education rather than con-

force, to underline one of the many

tinuing to revert to futile top-down

gaps that need to be addressed to

hasty solutions. Will we ever start

realise in practice the 2021 ESL pol-

from the beginning?

01/10/2021 11:44