Chris Academy
Chris Academy students
Christiana Adu Kyeremeh is one of the many proprietors that have participated in the IDP Rising Schools Program (IDPRSP). In conjunction with the management training, the IDP Rising Schools Program also commissioned Sesame Workshop to produce teacher training videos and materials. The innovative videos consist of ten teacher education lessons designed to be engaging and readily accessible. For background on this project, click here.
After introducing the Sesame Workshop Techniques For Effective Teaching video modules, Christiana has seen many benefits. “The Sesame videos have helped my teachers significantly,” says Christiana. "The instructors’ skills and attitudes towards teaching have changed for the better. I have also seen positive changes in students’ attitudes.“
Before joining the IDP Rising Schools Program, Chris Academy’s weekly meetings focused on discussing the instructors’ teaching methods and how they delivered them. At first, meetings were not as interactive and beneficial; however, since Christiana chose to change the meeting format to include watching and discussing the Sesame Workshop videos, the teachers’ feedback has been positive. They love the techniques introduced in the videos and have begun implementing them in their classrooms.
One of the greatest benefits of enrolling in the IDPRSP has been witnessing the change in my teachers’ attitudes. They are more confident and relaxed.” Christiana Adu Kyeremeh
Like any change, there is always a period of adjustment. The new methods were different than what the teachers were accustomed to using. The Techniques For Effective Teaching video modules focus on child-centered learning techniques that promote creative thinking, vastly different than the typical rote learning methods often used by many.
“Some teachers were too rigid and had to keep practicing,” said Christiana. “But now they’re all using methods with less difficulty. One of the greatest benefits of enrolling in the IDPRSP has been witnessing the change in my teachers’ attitudes. They are more confident and relaxed.” One teacher mentioned that she never knew teaching was that simple and fun until she started watching the videos. During lessons, the students are more involved and excited to learn. They especially enjoy the hands-on lessons. As a result, students’ demeanors and academic progress have improved.
The goals of the Sesame Workshop Techniques For Effective Teaching videos are to promote a child's social and emotional development and improve professional pride in teachers. Christiana plans to invest in new teaching tools, specifically, buying new gadgets and materials that can be used when administering lessons. Christiana is extremely hopeful about the future of her school and looks forward to seeing the continued progress of both teachers and students.