In the second of our series of Technical Forums, titled ‘Exploring Interdependence between Modelling Practice, School-Based Development and Teacher Networks’,participants discussed key issues on the importance of how these elements link for effective sustainableTeacher Professional Development (TPD). The Forum debated and presented recommendations for informing the design and implementation of future teacher education and development sector-wide programmes in Bangladesh. Three interdependent themes, Modelling: seeing and experiencing new practices, Introducing new classroom practices and generating learning through peer support in school,and Creating teacher and school networks, that support new classroom practices, were discussed in this Forum.
These interrelated and interdependent themes need to work together to produce change in teacher education and teachers’ classroom practices. Digital tools, particularly mobile technologies, can play a supporting or enabling role in relation to each of these themes. Modelling includes showing teachers new approaches through mobile learning and audio visual materials. Education technology and digital materials may provide tools for new classroom activities with students. Communications technology can help sustain professional relationships and networks, overcoming isolation.
Representatives from Directorate of Primary Education (DPE), Institute of Education and Research (IER), National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB), National Academy for Primary Education (NAPE), Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), UNICEF, Australian High Commission, World Bank, European Union, Asian Development Bank, Save the Children, British Council, BRAC, JICA, CAMPE and UCEP participated in the Forum with their experience of working in the Bangladesh education sector.
Mr. Md. Alamgir, Director General, Directorate of Primary Education (DPE); Mr. Shams Uddin Ahmed, Director Administration, DPE; Ms. Fahmida Shabnam, Education Adviser, DFID; Mr. Md. Siddiqur Rahman, Project Director, EIA; Ms. Sue Williamson, Team Leader, EIA; Project Management Unit, DPE and Tom Power from The Open University, UK were present amongst others in the Forum.
