The UPSTU ProDev Hour session on January 23, 2025, provided valuable insights for science teachers preparing for a new school term. Facilitated by Mwijuka Paul, a mathematics and physics teacher and trainer, the session emphasized strategic planning, effective teaching practices, and professional growth. Here are the key highlights and takeaways from this insightful session.
Session Highlights
1. Importance of Early Planning and Organization
Mwijuka stressed the need for science teachers to finalize domestic responsibilities and personal engagements before reporting to school. This includes planning for school fees payments, clearing debts, and ensuring smooth transitions into the new term. Teachers were encouraged to report for duty on time and participate in the beginning-of-term staff meetings, which are crucial for setting the tone for the term.
2. Adapting to New Classes and Curricula
Teachers often face the challenge of adapting to new classes or subjects. Mwijuka advised teachers to update their subject notes and schemes of work, familiarize themselves with the latest educational policies, and enhance their understanding of curriculum changes, especially for Senior 5 and Senior 6. He urged teachers to adopt new teaching methods and learning activities that align with the updated curriculum, ensuring effective student engagement.
3. Effective Lesson Planning and Time Management
Planning is central to effective teaching. Mwijuka emphasized the importance of creating comprehensive schemes of work, detailed lesson plans, and structured timetables. This preparation ensures smooth delivery of lessons, reduces confusion, and helps maintain punctuality. He encouraged teachers to arrive on time for lessons and explore innovative teaching approaches to improve student performance in science subjects.
4. Teamwork and Collaboration
Collaboration among teachers is vital for a cohesive learning environment. Mwijuka highlighted the importance of teamwork in departmental meetings and in connecting with parents of learners, particularly those with performance or behavioral challenges. By sharing strengths and weaknesses, teachers can be strategically assigned subjects and classes where they excel.
5. Professional Development and Self-Improvement
Continuous learning is essential for professional growth. Mwijuka encouraged teachers to enrich their subject knowledge, develop skills for handling diverse learner needs, and maintain a positive attitude toward teaching. By reflecting on their teaching methods and exploring past exam questions, teachers can create improved learning scenarios for their students.
Key Takeaways for Science Teachers
- Finalize domestic tasks before reporting to school.
- Attend the beginning-of-term staff meeting.
- Update subject notes and align them with curriculum changes.
- Develop innovative learning activities and teaching methods.
- Create detailed schemes of work and lesson plans.
- Manage time effectively by adhering to timetables and arriving on time for lessons.
- Engage in professional development to enhance subject knowledge and teaching skills.
- Foster teamwork in departmental meetings and collaborate with colleagues.
- Connect with parents to address learner challenges.
- Adhere to school policies, including signing attendance records and meeting deadlines.
Final Remarks
The session concluded with a prayer led by Ojara, expressing gratitude and seeking guidance for the term ahead. Mwijuka reiterated the importance of preparing for the new term, addressing curriculum changes, and maintaining a collaborative and positive outlook. Participants were also welcomed to future sessions and encouraged to share insights from their schools.
Watch the Full Session
A recording of this insightful session is embedded below:
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