CHANGES in the process of evaluating teachers and the teaching of Mathematics using technology are among the outcomes that will soon unfold as the Guyana Secondary School Improvement Programme (GSSIP) is implemented and integrated into the school system.Chief Education Officer Olato Sam, said “The secondary school project really is going to take on a key role, in transforming mathematics and secondary education, and moving us a couple of steps forward.”

Importantly, he noted the project will provide the opportunity for integration of a school management information system in the local education system that would enable the ministry at any time, to have a direct technological link with schools. This, he pointed out, would allow for information that is constantly flowing, and for the ministry to have a base from which it can make solid planning and policy decisions.

Sam also explained that the ministry expects to set some standards for mathematics instruction from the pilot, and then this will be replicated to all of the subjects.

He, however, noted that in this initial pilot, the focus is on utilising tablets in school to ensure that the children have at their fingertips the latest technology and techniques for mathematics instruction, and that the teachers can use this seamlessly to enhance their instructional approaches.

According to Sam, the pilot also allows for merging the local professional standards with an effective appraisal system for secondary level teachers. He explained that it would help, not only in enhancing the evaluation process, but also in bringing this more in line with contemporary practices, both regionally and internationally.

The GSSIP is being tested and implemented under a US$10M loan agreement from the World Bank.

The objective of the project is to facilitate more students exposure to secondary school mathematics teachers who have benefited from continuous professional development nationwide and, to increase the number of students in secondary schools with improved learning conditions in targeted regions.

According to the mid-year 2015 report under the project, a diagnostic assessment of mathematics teachers was completed, the results of which are currently being used to prepare new modules that will guide the training of teachers and improve their knowledge and enhance the methodology used to deliver the mathematics curriculum. As part of a pilot programme, in the first half of the year, 100 math teachers from Regions 3, 4, 7 and 9 were trained in ICT literacy and software use. This has enabled the teachers to incorporate the use of technology to prepare their curriculums.

(GINA)