Qatar - QF's progressive education through the lens of parents

(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The Peninsula

Doha: Over the decades, teaching practices have evolved by moving from traditional methods to those that are more progressive, placing students at the centre of the educational model. And today's parents, who didn't experience this form of learning, are seeking to gain a better understanding of these methodologies. 

Saeed Al Eida, father of Abdullah Al Eida, a 12th grade student at Qatar Academy Sidra, part of Qatar Foundation's (QF) Pre-University Education, explains how teaching practices differ to when he was a child. 

“Teaching and learning theories have evolved significantly over the past few decades, especially in terms of pedagogical strategies and content,” said Al Eida. 

“In the past, these were mainly teacher-centred, while progressive education today focuses on developing students' skills, enabling them to be part of the learning process, and instilling in them that learning is a life-long journey. 

“Also, the diversity of the teaching tools currently available and encouraging self-expression allows students to be active participants in the learning process, which helps to boost their self-confidence. 

“Abdullah's leadership skills have improved significantly since being at Qatar Academy Sidra, where the school focused on developing his abilities, discovering his talents, and giving him the opportunity to express himself in creative ways,” said Al Eida.

Theodora Karamaliki, mother of 11th grade student Maria Prassou also at QAS, believes that the technological boom has had the greatest impact on resources available to students today, contributing to the evolution of teaching practices. 

“When I was a student, teachers and schoolbooks were the primary sources of information. Additional resources, beyond schoolbooks, were very limited.

Maria Prassou

And students who had access to a nearby public library were considered lucky as they had the chance to borrow books to help them with their research assignments,” said Karamaliki. 

“Today, technology offers access to infinite knowledge resources from almost everywhere. This has enriched the educational experience for today's students. Homework has been replaced by projects and students are usually the ones who decide the subject of their projects based on their own interests. 

“This has helped develop essential skills for students, like time management, discipline, self-expression, and cooperation with others, as well as presentation and public speaking skills.” 

Karamaliki believes that progressive education gives students an opportunity to identify their interests and strengths at an early age, helping them to make key decisions about their future. Additionally, QF's unique education ecosystem enables young people to interact and collaborate with QF partner universities, as well as participate in various programs and initiatives. 

“Maria participated recently in two separate QF programmes. One was the 2021 WISE Summit, where she was involved in a panel discussion about peace and security. It was her first time participating in the event, and it served as a great opportunity to other people who share the same interests. 

“She also participated in the winter Medical Explorer Program run by Weill Cornell Medicine – Qatar. The programme gives high school students the chance to learn about medicine as a field of study by attending real lectures and classes, as well as find out about the admission process. She even had a mock interview, which I consider invaluable experience. I'm extremely proud that she was part of the team that was awarded the 'Best Presentation Award' within the programme. 

“Maria aspires to study medicine at university, and I am glad that she had the chance to experience the programme to help her decide what major to choose,” Karamaliki said. 

Admissions for the academic year 2022-2023 are now open for QF's PUE schools, including QAS. 

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