Hello Everyone
I am glad to share my experiences with you all in implementing a project for an Integrated In-Service Teacher Training INSET program for Junior Secondary School Teachers in Sierra Leone.
As the project contact person, one has to show total commitment and sacrifice to the project. Without passion for the project, the goals of the project cannot be achieved. For me I put my whole being to ensuring that objectives are met.
It is not easy to work with teams, but it is necessary for the full realization of the project. I tried to be a motivator and a pusher for activities to be done. this has helped me most in the implementation of the project.
As a contact person for the project, I am frequently in touch and communication with the Consultant of the project, Prof. Mohamed Junaid and the COL office, to emails and telephone calls.
I had constant sensitization meetings with school principals and teachers. sometimes do it even outside the project timelines. it was not a one go sensitization. introducing new programmes in schools. Be open to them, listen to their views and questions and give them the genuine answers. for example, almost all the pilot schools of the project asked if COL will support them with computers and smartphones, I categorically told them the fact that they will not be provided., however, I encouraged them that it is for their own professional development and for quality teaching and learning outcomes.
expose the entire project proposal to the schools and give them an abridged version for their own perusal. make them feel part of the implementation processes.
Activities accomplished:
1. We conducted a baseline survey to assess the readiness of the schools and teachers for the introduction of technology in teaching and learning.
2. we conducted sensitization meetings with all schools in the project.
3. we have conducted learning design and development workshop for module writers and 1st and 2nd drafts have been completed.
3. the lead consultants is always called upon to be part of all the activities, this serves as a motivation for acceptance of the project by the schools.
4.the Ministry should be informed and be part of the project.
in a nut shell I have great passion for the project and have the determination to ensure that the project makes an impact in the schools. Commitment and time management are key for all I do. I always make sure that I open my email everyday and revert immediately to any mails.
I always ask the support of the lead consultant in the discharge of every project activity. I never implement an activity without consulting the consultant.
5. strictly follow the budget lines and report on every activities carried out.
Brainard