




OxfordAQA trains 100 science teachers


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OxfordAQA Upskills Bangladeshi Science Educators, Aiming to Boost Student Performance
The Daily Star recently reported on a training program conducted by OxfordAQA Examinations, focused on enhancing the skills of 100 science teachers across Bangladesh. The initiative, held in Dhaka from November 27-29, aims to improve the quality of science education and ultimately elevate student performance in national examinations. This program represents a continued effort by international organizations to bolster educational infrastructure within Bangladesh, particularly in STEM fields.
The training focused on pedagogical approaches aligned with OxfordAQA’s curriculum framework, emphasizing inquiry-based learning, practical experimentation, and critical thinking skills. Participants included teachers from both government and private schools, representing diverse regions of the country. The program was facilitated by experienced trainers from OxfordAQA, who provided guidance on adapting international best practices to the Bangladeshi context.
According to the report, the training covered key areas such as assessment for learning, differentiation strategies to cater to varied student needs, and effective classroom management techniques. A significant component involved practical sessions where teachers engaged in simulated teaching scenarios and received constructive feedback from trainers and peers. The emphasis wasn't solely on content delivery but also on fostering a more engaging and interactive learning environment for students.
The Daily Star article highlighted comments from both OxfordAQA representatives and participating teachers. Dr. Dipu, Country Director of OxfordAQA Examinations Bangladesh, stated that the program is part of their ongoing commitment to supporting Bangladeshi educators and improving educational outcomes. He emphasized the importance of equipping teachers with the skills necessary to prepare students for a rapidly evolving global landscape. The training’s focus on practical application was specifically noted as crucial for translating theoretical knowledge into tangible classroom improvements.
Several participating science teachers echoed this sentiment, expressing their appreciation for the opportunity to refresh their teaching methodologies and learn new techniques. One teacher from a government school in Narayanganj reportedly stated that the program provided valuable insights into incorporating more hands-on activities into her lessons, something she had previously struggled with due to resource constraints. Another participant noted the usefulness of learning strategies for addressing diverse learning styles within a single classroom – a common challenge given the varied academic backgrounds of Bangladeshi students.
The OxfordAQA training aligns with broader national goals outlined in Bangladesh’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4, which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. The government of Bangladesh has consistently prioritized improving the quality of education at all levels, recognizing its vital role in economic development and social progress. Initiatives like this training program contribute to that goal by directly addressing teacher capacity building – a critical factor in educational improvement.
The Daily Star article also referenced previous collaborations between OxfordAQA and Bangladeshi institutions. OxfordAQA Examinations has been offering international qualifications in Bangladesh for several years, including GCSEs, IGCSEs, and A Levels. This existing presence allows them to understand the specific challenges and opportunities within the Bangladeshi education system, enabling them to tailor training programs effectively. The report did not detail the specifics of these prior collaborations but indicated a long-term commitment to supporting educational development in Bangladesh.
The success of this particular program will be measured by its impact on student performance and teacher practice. OxfordAQA reportedly plans to conduct follow-up assessments with participating teachers to gauge the extent to which they are implementing the newly acquired skills in their classrooms. This feedback loop is essential for refining future training programs and ensuring that they remain relevant and effective. The Daily Star’s coverage suggests a positive initial reception, but long-term impact assessment will be key to determining the program's overall value.
The initiative underscores the ongoing need for professional development opportunities for teachers in Bangladesh. While the government invests significantly in education, supplementary training programs from international organizations like OxfordAQA can provide valuable specialized expertise and contribute to a more holistic approach to improving educational quality. The focus on science education is particularly important given its role in driving innovation and economic growth within the country.
Read the Full The Daily Star Article at:
[ https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/education/news/oxfordaqa-trains-100-science-teachers-4013146 ]