No doubt, education is a fundamental human right, and it is human beings collective responsibility to ensure that all learners have access to high-quality education that prepares them for success in a swiftly changing world. By implementing a number of strategies and continuing to innovate and improve the education systems, citizens can build a brighter future, no doubt. Ethiopia has been capitalizing on access to education for all and quality to some extent, and has successfully been championing regarding the former as well as ardently working to meet the latter too. Yes, the remaining assignment has entirely been lying on quality matters.
Cognizant of the fact viable suggestions and professional comments have all the time been secured from expert in the area. The Ethiopia Herald approached Mulumebet Balcha, who graduated in Educational Planning and Management and Leadership Bahir Dar University, to solicit some sorts of expertise and recommendable notions in that regard.
She said “Having a well-designed curriculum, competent and motivated educators, tempting learning environment, responsible and patriotic educational administrators and the like have to be well taken into account as they are key elements to achieve quality education. However, quality education is not just about these and the not yet cited elements since it incorporate quite many elements.” As to Mulumebet, improving education quality is essential for ensuring that all students have access to high quality education and are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in today’s hurriedly varying realm. There are also a number of strategies that have to be well focused on to improve education quality like investing in teaching and professional development, promoting innovation and technology integration in the classroom as much as possible and enhancing students engagement and motivation.
She said, needless to state, education is a crucial component of building a better society. Nonetheless, in many parts of the world, students face various challenges when it comes to accessing quality education. Since a lack of resources, poorly trained teachers, inadequate infrastructure, and other related factors are seriously compromising the quality of education, which students receive; Ethiopia is working hard to overcome all these pitfalls. As a result, improving education quality has become a top priority for policymakers, educators, and parents alike.
Improving education quality is not just about academic success, but it is also about shaping future generations of responsible, competent, ethical, civic-minded and informed individuals who can contribute positively to their country and society from where they have been grown and nurtured. Yes, improving education quality shouldn’t be left only to a sole party as it requires the combined effort of all, she added.
In due course of bringing about quality education, teachers can play an irreplaceable role, she said. Teachers also play a vital role in shaping the minds of the next generation. Not only are teachers responsible for imparting knowledge but they are guiding and inspiring students to become lifelong learners. Therefore, it is crucial that teachers receive the necessary training and professional development to enhance their teaching skills and knowledge, she opined. In so doing, ensuring quality education would become simple though it demands a number of inputs ranging from material aspect to human element.
Technology is highly needed, too. As technology continues to evolve and new research emerges, teachers need to adapt and incorporate these advancements into their teaching methods. Professional development programs can provide teachers with the tools and resources needed to stay current and improve their teaching techniques.
“Most importantly, by providing teachers with the necessary tools and resources, they can create engaging and effective learning experiences that inspire students to become lifelong learners,” she added.
Access to high-quality teaching materials and resources is too essential for improving the quality of education. Teachers require access to resources that align with the curriculum, are relevant, engaging, and provide opportunities for learning beyond the classroom, she said.
One effective strategy for providing access to high-quality teaching materials and resources is to encourage collaboration between teachers and curriculum specialists. This collaboration can ensure that teaching materials and resources are aligned with the curriculum and are tailored to meet the needs of the students.
One way to create a positive and inclusive learning environment is also to promote diversity and inclusivity in the classroom. Educators can celebrate and recognize the different cultures and backgrounds of their students and encourage them to learn from each other’s experiences.
“Another way to foster a positive learning environment is to establish clear expectations and routines in the classroom, she said. This includes setting expectations for behavior, participation, and academic performance. By establishing a clear set of guidelines, students understand what is expected of them and feel more comfortable in their learning environment.”
Besides, creating a positive and inclusive learning environment requires effort and commitment from educators and administrators. However, the benefits of such an environment are invaluable, as students are more likely to feel engaged, motivated, and successful in their academic pursuits.
Equally, student-centered learning approaches can also help personalize learning experiences. This approach involves giving students more control over their learning, allowing them to explore topics that interest them, and providing opportunities for student-led discussions and activities. By focusing on the student’s needs and interests, teachers can create a more engaging and effective learning experience.
She said implementing technology in the classroom can also offer several benefits. Moreover, it is essential to ensure that technology does not replace traditional teaching methods entirely. Instead, technology should be used to complement and enhance teaching, making it more engaging and effective. Teachers must also ensure that the technology they use is accessible and inclusive, taking into account the different learning styles and abilities of their students.
“Encouraging parental involvement and engagement is crucial for improving education quality. Parents play a vital role in their child’s education and can greatly contribute to their success. When parents are involved in their child’s education, it not only benefits the student but also the school and community as a whole. By encouraging parental involvement and engagement, schools can create a collaborative and supportive learning environment that benefits students, parents, and the community as a whole,” she added.
Adjusting open communication channels, providing opportunities for involvement, offering resources and support, recognizing and appreciate parents as well as emphasizing the importance of education would undoubtedly contribute a lot to the effort geared towards ensuring quality education, said Mulumebet.
Mulumebet further stated that improving assessment and evaluation processes is of paramount importance in enhancing education quality. This could be dealt with via coming up with clearly define learning objectives, utilizing a variety of assessment methods, using formative assessments, providing students with timely and actionable feedback, involving students in the evaluation process, and so on.
In sum, improving education quality requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses various aspects of the learning process. From teacher training and professional development to prioritizing mental health and well-being, each strategy plays a vital role in providing students with the best possible education. Pro-poor education policies that promote equal access to basic education, such as cash transfers to encourage attendance or spending on public education that benefits the poor, can reduce inequality by helping build human capital and making educational opportunities less dependent on socioeconomic circumstances. Equitable access, quality learning, and education in emergencies are crucial components that need to be addressed to ensure access to quality education for all regardless of socioeconomic status.
Additionally, education policies need to be inclusive, with the principle of equity being fundamental to all education sector plans and policies. In so doing, quality education can be ensured.
BY MENGESHA AMARE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023
