Advancing Digital Pedagogy: A Collaborative Construction of a Digital Pedagogy Training in Rwanda

In an era where digital transformation is reshaping and developing education globally, the HEP-TED-project stands as a tribute to the power of international collaboration and innovation. In this article, we describe a joint, active and rewarding co-development process with Rwandan and Finnish colleagues.
Launching Digital Champions

The goal of our collaboration process was to design and implement a comprehensive digital pedagogy training program to be started in December 2024. Joint planning was maintained both online and during a face-to-face meeting in Jyväskylä, Finland. The training is to be organized for 20 people working under the title of digital champion, whose responsibility is to support the digital pedagogical skills and pedagogical learning activities of teachers in Rwanda Polytechnic and College of Education.

Key Components of the Training Program

The training program is meticulously crafted to foster self-directed, innovative, and collaborative learning. These elements are crucial for digital champions to continuously develop their skills and activities to adapt to the evolving educational landscape. The core learning components of the program include:

  • Learning Design: Participants will explore the principles of effective learning design, assessment and feedback, ensuring that learning experiences are engaging, inclusive, and impactful.
  • Psychological Safety in Online Learning Environments: Creating a safe and supportive online learning environment is essential for student success. The component focuses on strategies to foster psychological safety, encouraging open communication learning.
  • Leveraging Artificial Intelligence in Education: As AI becomes increasingly integrated into educational tools and platforms, understanding its potential and applications is vital. This component will cover the use of AI to enhance teaching and learning processes.
  • Hybrid Teaching: The future of education lies in the seamless integration of in-person and online learning. This component will equip digital champions and teachers with the skills to effectively design and deliver hybrid courses that maximize student engagement and learning outcomes.
     
Enhancing Collaboration between the Universities and Digital Champions’ Roles

One of the main objectives of this training program is to foster greater collaboration among Rwandan universities. By standardizing the roles, responsibilities, and quality of digital champions working within these institutions, we aim to create a cohesive network of educators dedicated to advancing digital pedagogy. This alignment not only enhances the pedagogical practices across universities but also strengthens the overall quality of teacher education and professional development.

Reflective Practice and Continuous Improvement

A distinctive feature of our training program is its emphasis on reflective practice. Participants are encouraged to engage in self-assessment and reflection on their professional growth. This process not only enhances their teaching practices but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and lifelong learning.

Collaborative Development and Implementation

The success of this training hinges on the collaborative efforts between our team and our Rwandan colleagues. By working together, we ensure that the training program is culturally relevant and tailored to meet the specific needs of Rwandan educators. This partnership also facilitates mutual learning, as we all are sharing insights and best practices from our respective educational contexts. Working together is rewarding, and the best part is that everyone learns.

Future Directions

The educational export project to Rwanda is more than just a training program; it is a collaborative journey towards advancing digital pedagogy. By integrating innovative teaching strategies and fostering a supportive learning environment, we aim to empower educators to thrive in digital environments. Together, we are building an inspiring future for education, one that is inclusive, dynamic, and responsive to the needs of all learners.

Writers: 
Siru Lehto, Principal lecturer, School of Professional Teacher Education, Jamk
Mari Petäjä, Senior lecturer, School of Professional Teacher Education, Jamk
Henna Pernu, Senior lecturer, School of Professional Teacher Education, Jamk  

This blog text was crafted with the unique insights and expertise of our writers, supported by AI technology (Copilot) to enhance its structure and flow.