A new methodology for teaching practical skills and knowledge was introduced today at Tirana Business Park by the Swiss-funded ‘Skills for Jobs’ project. The package includes ‘blended learning’ whereby students learn from a variety of sources such as online tools. Students can apply peer assessment, project-based learning, and research.
In addition, a twinning partnership was signed between the Industrial School ‘Pavarësia’ in Vlora and the Swiss vocational school IDM in Thun, Switzerland. At the event, Mr. Ben Hutter, IDM Director, stated that “both schools will benefit from the exchange and partnership”.
“Embracing ICT and online systems is a must today in any vocational school in order to prepare students for an increasingly digitalised working environment”, said Swiss Ambassador Christoph Graf in his address.
“Last year we promoted VET and started to build the schools of excellence. In order for these schools to be up to speed with the latest technology developments, it is time to focus on innovation”, stated Minister of Social Welfare and Youth Blendi Klosi. The Minister also mentioned that trust in the vocational education sector must increase alongside the work of the government and all international partners.
During a simulated “blended” classroom students and teachers showed how various learning novelties are applied practically. IT students from Lezha demonstrated the creation of a logo on the spot whereas students from Vlora filmed and edited a video. Project experts also moderated a live debate on new ways of learning.
The ‘New ways of learning’ package will start with vocational schools in Berat, Lezha, and Vlora and will aim to link the classroom with real employment. Inspired by the proven Swiss model, this approach transforms the classroom, the teachers’ role, the students’ engagement.
With the use of the features of ICT, this type of learning prepares the students better for the future, by making learning more attractive and efficient with games, group-work, individual learning, projects and e-learning. This calls for redefinition of the teachers’ role, moving away from their platform to the centre of the class, from a lecture-deliverer to a learning facilitator, i.e. focusing on the students’ and business needs.
