Great teachers are the foundation of every strong education system. Today’s world is full of technology, so teachers need the right tools and knowledge required to keep pace with the technology in place to keep students curious and engaged. That’s why the WAAW Foundation held a STEM Teachers training (STEM workshop for African educators) in Kaduna, to help teachers gain the skills they need to inspire and educate the next generation.

This blog offers insights into the highlights of the training, the impact it had on the teachers involved, and the tools that are now at their fingertips to enhance their teaching methodologies.

Overview of the 5- Day Training

The training aimed to equip educators with the skills to teach STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects more effectively. By focusing on hands-on, interactive tools like Kahoot, Scratch programming, PHET simulations, and WordPress for web development, the training gave teachers the confidence and competence to tackle teaching in a way that resonates with their students.

Beyond technical skills, the training also included a session on Social Emotional Learning (SEL), helping teachers learn how to manage their emotions, connect with their students, and create a more focused and inspiring learning environment. Participants were also introduced to professional trainings for public school teachers, as well as platforms like LinkedIn- how teachers can use Linkedin for professional development, and other professional communities to help them stay updated with trends and grow their networks.

The training was packed with valuable insights, and the teachers left feeling empowered and ready to make a difference. One teacher at a time, we’re transforming rural education in Nigeria, elevating teacher empowerment, and reshaping narratives, and that’s a powerful step toward rebuilding Africa.

Practical Tools for Teaching: A Game-Changer for Educators

The training introduced several tools and resources for teaching STEM  in rural schools, which  have transformed the way educators approach lessons. Tools like Kahoot for quizzes, Scratch programming for teaching coding, PHET simulations for interactive STEM Education and others were featured as part of the training. These tools empower teachers to bring real-time engagement into their classrooms.

How to Apply These Tools:

  • Kahoot: Use it to create fun, competitive quizzes that reinforce learning. It’s easy to use and can be applied to a variety of subjects, including math, history, and languages.
  • Scratch Programming: A fantastic introduction to coding for younger students. Teachers can guide their students in building simple games or animations, enhancing critical thinking and creativity.
  • PHET Simulations: Utilize interactive simulations in subjects like physics and chemistry to demonstrate abstract concepts in a visually engaging manner. 

Overcoming Challenges in Teaching: Real Solutions

Throughout the training, educators shared the common struggles they face, including limited resources, lack of training on digital tools, and varying levels of student engagement. The training went above and beyond to provide real solutions to these issues, demonstrating how technology can bridge gaps in traditional teaching methods. Some practical solutions highlighted during the training include:

  • Access to Free Resources like Kahoot, Scratch, Nearpod, and PHET to bypass budget challenges.
  • Offline Accessibility through tools like Kolibri and downloadable content for areas with poor internet.
  • Student-Centered Methods such as group work, inquiry-based learning, and gamification.
  • Time Management & SEL Skills to help teachers manage stress and build stronger connections with students.
  • Low-Cost Teaching Aids using everyday items like bottle caps and sticks for STEM lessons.
  • Professional Networks like LinkedIn, WAAW teachers groups, and educator forums for ongoing support.
  • Peer Collaboration to encourage sharing of resources, co-learning, and building strong educator communities.

 

Real Stories of Impact

Throughout the training, Teachers shared their testimonials and feedback;

  • One participant shared her passion for web development, saying she’s excited to build a website to amplify the school she co-runs.
  • Another proudly spoke of how she’s already begun using Kahoot with students she tutors at home and is now working to integrate it into her class engagement
  • A participant expressed a renewed love for Science, having now seen its practical and engaging use.
  • One teacher spoke about how she learned to give constructive feedback, reinforcing her students’ efforts with clarity and positivity.
  • One teacher, now an advocate for positive motivation, pledged to use affirming words during grading to encourage student growth.
  • Another reflected on already using the 4Cs unknowingly and how this training gave his practices meaning and structure: “I feel seen and heard.”
  • Nafisat came in unsure of what to expect, but left most excited about how web development can elevate the marketing and visibility of her business.
  • “Children will be children,” one teacher reminded us. “It’s our duty as teachers to regulate our emotions, not theirs.”

See more of these teachers’ testimonials on our social media

Resource Links for Further Learning

To make it easier for educators to get started, here are some direct links to the tools featured in the training:

These resources are free and can be used to create engaging and interactive learning experiences in classrooms.

The WAAW Foundation’s STEM teacher training is more than just an event—it’s a movement to empower educators with the skills needed to shape the future. By focusing on hands-on learning, the training encourages educators to think outside the box, engage their students creatively, and break down the barriers to quality STEM education. The following next steps are encouraged for educators:

  • Attend upcoming training sessions or webinars by WAAW Foundation or similar initiatives. Follow us on social media to stay updated on webinars and other info sessions
  • Explore the resources mentioned in this post and experiment with them in your own classroom.
  • Join a community of educators who are passionate about lifelong learning and growth.

By integrating these new skills and tools into your own teaching practices, you’ll be able to make a significant impact on your students and foster a love for learning in them.