In a move to boost English literacy among students, the Ministry of Education, Sports, and Culture in Samoa has initiated an extensive training program for teachers at Upolu Colleges. This initiative, which kicked off with its first training session for teachers of Years 9-13, is centered around enhancing the proficiency of students in English, a crucial skill in today’s global landscape.
The training program is designed with several key objectives in mind. Primarily, it aims to provide teachers with the necessary tools and methods to strengthen English literacy in their classrooms. This is envisioned to aid students in improving their skills in speaking, writing, reading, and understanding the English language. Such a focus is critical in a world where English is increasingly becoming a medium of international communication and education.
The outcomes expected from this week’s training are multifaceted. Teachers will acquire expertise in instructing language proficiency across a range of subjects. They will be encouraged to incorporate the SWIRL (Speaking and Listening, Writing and Presenting, Reading and Viewing) methodology in their lessons, emphasising the development of productive language skills. Additionally, the training will guide teachers in creating more efficient teaching methods, tailored to help current and future students acquire English language skills more effectively.
Aeau Christopher Hazelman, the CEO of the Ministry of Education, Sports, and Culture, underscored the deeper purpose of education in his statement: “As educators, we must understand that intellectual education influences the head and mind and values-based education influences the heart. In my role, I want to make it very clear that the education of the heart is just as important as the mind.” This profound insight highlights the Ministry’s holistic approach to education, where fostering emotional intelligence and values is as crucial as intellectual growth.
The program also includes strategies for designing engaging, fun, and creative English lessons. These are expected to encompass various methods like Speaking and Listening, Reading and Viewing, and Writing and Presenting, thereby fostering comprehensive language literacy. Another significant aspect of the training is the focus on designing varied assessments to gauge student receptive and productive skills, which is crucial for understanding their learning progress.
Highlighting the importance of bilingualism, the training also emphasises teaching in both English and Samoan languages. This approach not only strengthens the students’ grasp of English but also reinforces their cultural and linguistic identity.
The Ministry acknowledges and appreciates the collaboration with Ms. Faasautele Dinah Iusitini and her team from Teuila Consultancy and Tautua, who are instrumental in conducting this training. Their expertise is a vital component in the successful implementation of this initiative.
As the training progresses, the Ministry extends its gratitude to the participating teachers and looks forward to their contributions in the upcoming sessions. The enthusiasm and commitment shared by these educators are pivotal in enhancing the educational services in Samoa. The initiative marks a significant step towards equipping Samoan students with the language skills necessary to thrive in a global environment, fulfilling the Ministry’s commitment to educational excellence and cultural integrity.
