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