Watch this Inspiring Video: Kids don't learn from people they don't like

Rita F. PIERSON inspires me. I love this speech.

True! Kids don't learn from people they don't like. All learning comes from understanding. An understanding that is nurtured by relationships. How I wish that all educators will appreciate the power of relationships in every learning situation.

To my colleagues, it is obvious that we will 'TEACH' anyway. Let's inspire our students each day by establishing good relationships first. Why? We are in the business of building lives.

Watch This Video: How to Engage Under-performing Students

A new sense of educational order needs to emerge in our schools such that there will be new relationships and interaction between teachers and students which will in turn bring about a new concept of our curriculum.

Two key strategies here are: Interactive Learning and Non-Negotiables. Watch  and share this important strategy that changed the story of one school from almost being shut down.

  

4 Common Pronunciation Mistakes That Could Drive One Crazy

I read this from an education blogger called Shelley Emling and I was kind of surprised that the 'owners' of the language get it wrong too. Whether we disown or accept English language as ours, it is proper and polite to pronounce it well - especially when one is nabbed in the habit of 'phonology'.

1. Used/Use

If you've previously done something, you USED to do it. For example, one would write or say "I used to go running, but then I broke my leg." One would not write or say "I use to go running, but then I broke my leg."

2. Various words with the letter "x" or "x" sound

When you say "escape" it is "es-cape" and not "ex-cape." And when you say "ask" it is ass-k" and not "axe." Also, it is ex-cept and not es-cept.

3. Supposedly

There simply is no such word as "supposably." And it's "supposed to" and not "suppose to."

4. Anyway/anyways

Come on... there is no "s" at the end of the word "anyway."

I actually feel bothered especially in the X in place of  S or vice versa - it is so wrong people! The 'used' term is a nice awakening because it is taken for granted here in Nigeria more often than should be. The 'suppose to' is common pronunciation mistake here and should be corrected. 

For 'anyways' Shirley, my disclaimer as it pertains to its use is that it is often used more as a slang than a proper word.....but this is not to dilute its wrongness.   

Click to read her post here.

Never Give In, Never Give In, Never Never Never!

"Never give in. Never give in. Never, never, never, never — in nothing, great or small, large or petty — never give in, except to convictions of honor and good sense." Winston Churchill, 1941

Winston Churchill repeated a grade during elementary school and, when he entered Harrow, was placed in the lowest division of the lowest class. Later, he failed the entrance exam twice to the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst. He was defeated in his first effort to serve in Parliament. He became Prime Minister at the age of 62. He later proclaimed to the students of Harrow School {his alma mata), after becoming the Prime Minister the above speech.

No leader in history, perhaps, matched Churchill's capacity for blurring the lines between speech and battle cry. This is one of his best. It's an urban legend that the "Never give in" exhortation comprised the totality of his address; Churchill went on for several more paragraphs. But there's no question that this, far and away, was what Harrow's students remembered.

What lessons can we learn from Winston Churchill's speech to the students. Remember he had become a leader at the time of this speech.

• Firstly, every child has the potential to be someone great whether they  are topping the class or not.
• Secondly, he was persistent and was positive until he became successful. Here, I speak directly to the parents who think their children are not doing great in school. Be persistent and patient, do not give up, keep working with your child and ensure that they bring the best of their ability. You are sure to raise an accomplished child in the future.
• Lastly, Churchill was a leader who cared about the perceptions and character of the students. Our eyes are collectively filled with tears, begging and seeking for leaders who will take Nigeria to the next level. Your words (leaders), if pronounced passionately with sustainable intent will change Nigeria.

And guess where 'change' will start from? THE SCHOOLS.

Give them your voice and support. Therein lies the magic!

Big Big Words! Vanity upon Vanity

From a page on this blog - Anecdotes of My Day...
constitutes my daily experiences. link

Big, Big Words!

Doing a lot of reading recently and I am totally enjoying all the new information I am getting. One terminology that has refused to leave me is NIHILISM. Nihilism is a state of nothingness. Nihilism is loss of meaning or seriousness. If nihilism were complete there would be no significant private or public issues. Nihilism is the fundamental movement in the history of the West. Materialism is a symptom of nihilism. Materialism is the view that all meaning has gone from the cosmos, nature, and culture. Values are objective, explicit options which imply the existence of choice. (Source: ERIC)

Is life itself meaningful? Now the bottom line here is that in the state of a loss of meaning, all educational activity lacks meaning with particular reference to cultural practices. Example, a close friend of mine does not really get why she needs to teach her kids her local language. Her argument is that it is meaningless and not useful to him! Is he going to become the business mogul she knows he will become through the use of the language? In his time, how many people is he going to have to speak it to? Is it for survival?

If we look at her 'nihilist' arguments for the transmission of language deeply, we may begin to see reasons. In the transmission of values, a good question to ask ourselves constantly is..."does it have meaning?"

Now, here I am in my world, thinking, if so, many cultural practices are valueless - in a state of nothingness. If they are valueless, what makes a people unique? Are we human beings equally in a state of nothingness - nihilism? Do you get my drift? If you do, you are definitely in 'the spirit' with me because I guess we must find some meaning at some point as human beings.... otherwise we need not exist.

Is the teaching of handwriting still important in this technology driven age?

Is handwriting still important? Educators are saying that basic handwriting skills are still necessary for success in schooling and life. I play a dual role as a mother/teacher and I have found it extremely hard to get my son to write the way I would love him to. I see his 'excitability' in his pattern of handwriting. He just won't settle to write well a lot of times but teaching him to write frequently is helping him learn to be more detailed. It has worked on his study skills and his spellings.

Fears of handwriting's demise prompted North Carolina Congresswoman Pat Hurley to draft a bill, mandating that script be taught in all elementary schools in the state. It passed unanimously in the state House earlier this month.

Jeffrey Reaser, an associate professor of linguistics at North Carolina State University, says a sense of "nostalgia" is not enough reason to force students to learn something that's "not crucial to their education".

Meanwhile, some classrooms in the state have begun teaching students handwriting on iPads and iPods.

I think that it is important because it helps children acquire the skill of writing by hand almost as they would a second language. It is wise to continue teaching handwriting and we need to continue to help kids be 'bilingual' by hand.

There is still a clear emphasis on maintaining those building blocks within the education system. Some experts conducted a study that looked at the ability of students to complete various writing tasks — both on a computer and by hand.

The study, published in 2009, found that when writing with a pen and paper, participants wrote longer essays and more complete sentences and had a faster word production rate.

In a more recent study, they looked at what role spelling plays in a student's writing skills and found that how well children spell is tied to how well they can write.

"Spelling activates some of the thinking parts of the brain in the frontal lobes." one expert said. "We think that it is a cognitive portal, because it helps us access our vocabulary, word meaning and concepts … It is allowing your written language to connect with ideas."

Spelling helps students translate ideas into words in their mind first and then to transcribe "those word representations in the mind into written symbols in the external environment (on paper or keyboard and monitor)," the study said.

Seeing the words in the "mind's eye" helps children to not only turn their ideas into words, says Berninger, but also to spot spelling mistakes when they write the words down and to correct them over time.

In our computer age, some people believe that we don't have to teach spelling because we have spell checks. But when a child has a functional spelling ability of about a fifth grade level, they won't have the knowledge to choose the correct spelling among the options given by the machine."

I dare to say that hand writing has a lot to do with discipline, clarity of thought and ability to focus. But then perhaps, these are not considered useful things any more in this "copy and paste age". I'm wondering! Have you noticed that an increasing number of people can not spell correctly any more?  

What is wrong in this picture?

My husband has a friend who believes strongly in flogging or whipping his children and of course using the corporal punishment. He says they are turning out to be the best behaved students in their school. I read this and I think it is worth reading. 

Think of being fed and clothed by children you had whipped -- whose flesh you had scarred! Think of feeling in the hour of death upon your withered lips, your withered cheeks, the kisses and the tears of one whom you had beaten -- upon whose flesh were still the marks of your lash! The whip degrades; a severe father teaches his children to dissemble; their love is pretence, and their obedience a species of self-defence. Fear is the father of lies.

We all know of many instances where the abused, the maligned, and the tortured have returned good for evil -- and many instances where the loved, the honored, and the trusted have turned against their benefactors, and yet we know that cruelty and torture are not superior to love and kindness. 

When the children are young and weak, the parents and teachers who are strong beat the children in order that they may be affectionate/perform excellently. Now, when the children get strong and the parents and teachers are old and weak, should the children not beat them, so that they too may become kind and loving or deserving/exemplary?

Do tell! Do you not think that this picture will only do more harm than good? I am a teacher and I have indeed got the best out of my students without ever using this 'hideous' and 'soul-impoverishing' method! The 'post-stone' age period is long gone. Perhaps, we might be breeding unmindful citizens.

Back To Blogging!

Once again, I have been unavoidably absent for a much longer time than I'd hoped for. I have been attending to very many matters that are gainful....but I am baaacckkk! However, I will be writing my exams in school soon (currently running a Masters program) and I'm hopeful that I should be able to dazzle my lecturers having learnt so much in such a little time. 

I have a little advice; do not just read novels or soft sell magazines. There is a lot information available for  the taking. Read journals, articles, abstracts, self-help books and most importantly educating textbooks of interest in your field. In Dr. Igwe's (Curriculum Theory Ph.D) words, "READ WIDELY!" You will be amazed at how much good you  will be doing to yourself. You gradually become your own little encyclopedia.

I promise to be as constant as the rising sun (smile). Thanks to as many that continued to follow the blog. You are appreciated.

Rhoda

Obama and Early Childhood Education

“Tonight, I propose working with states to make high-quality preschool available to every child in America. Every dollar we invest in high-quality early education can save more than seven dollars later on – by boosting graduation rates, reducing teen pregnancy, even reducing violent crime … studies show students grow up more likely to read and do math at grade level, graduate high school, hold a job, form more stable families of their own. We know this works.”

--President Barack Obama

State of the Union, February 12, 2013

The world has become a global place because of the quick access to information; many thanks to the current social media growth. We are now able to learn from all parts of the world at the speed of light; for those who choose to. The time has come for Nigerian stakeholders to look into Early childhood Education.

President Obama in his statement showcasing his vision to transform America's education during the Democratic National Congress in 2012 spoke passionately about Early Childhood Education. He is now putting his words into action after his State of the Union address a few days ago. If the U.S.A; still tagged as having one of the world's best educational system are planning to include the Pre-K class into their public school system, (by the way Pre-K is our Nursery school version), why should not follow this great example swiftly and start chasing our dreams. Whether we like it or not, the future of  Nigeria lies in the hands of these young ones. We give them a high quality education from birth, they churn out a better Nigeria for us. I am hopeful.

The evidence of the importance of Early Childhood Education is clearly highlighted in the picture I got from the blog of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation - www.impatientoptimists.org. 

See picture below

Happy Birthday to the face behind 'The Learning Craft' - ME!

LIS 2011 Kindergarten Graduation 

Oh yes! That's me doing exactly what I love to do! I have turned a year older today and my birthday wish is that  all stakeholders in the Nigerian education industry will appreciate and provide quality education to her children and give quick access to it. 

It is only when we have achieved this or are in the process of achieving this that we can begin to say that we are on the path to peace and progress.

Happy Birthday Rhoda! 

Two Classrooms - Two Dreams - Two World's Apart

I have been away for quite some time and I sincerely apologize. I recently started pursuing an M.Ed and it is certainly taking a toll on my blogging hours. I am back though after having adjusted to a new routine; and it is great to be back doing what I love to do. I hope to be sharing a lot of what I will be learning as it is already getting very interesting. So, I resume with my Valentine's day thought. 

Tell me, what kinds of dreams could emanate from these two classrooms?

This year's valentine's day came to me with thoughts of nicely decorated classrooms; full of colorful and effective teaching aids. The kind that promotes and boosts visual learning as well as inciting the spirit of creativity in children. I thought about how many Nigerian children in their nooks and crannies; in  uncountable classrooms around the country are learning in uncomfortable, uninspiring and drab classrooms. How can I even dare to speak about beautifully decorated classrooms when many children are currently learning without roofs and windows? You probably may not fully put into perspective how quickly a drab classroom can quench an honest desire and hunger for education e.g. the classrooms in my Alma Mater. 

I thought about the kinds of dreams that would come from two children learning at the same time in the separate classrooms above. Can they have similar hopes and dreams? Are they viewing the world the same way? What kind of leaders would they be if they were both to become Presidents in the future? Can they share close leadership qualities?

I thought about the influence of a creatively adorned classroom with goal-oriented visual aids and the direct effect it has on learning and the learners. I thought about as many Nigerian children whose ideologies could have been easily enriched with brilliants thoughts; how their world could have been perceived differently or even changed completely by simply being given the privilege of learning in an 'effectively decorated' classroom! 

A perfect valentine's day gift from me in the future would be to beautifully decorate as many classrooms as I can. 

Reason: To have been able to help to inspire one more child to dare to have an education. Yes, I can because I am certain that a cause such as this one has the capacity to change many lives and indeed Nigeria.

I am hopeful!

When A Hero Disappoints Me

It is still somewhat difficult to imagine that a sportsman millions looked up to; a man who took the world by storm would be caught in such a strong, tactical and technical web of doping! It is my honest opinion that Lance Armstrong is a skillful cyclist to have won the first time; but for me, it is about the millions of hopes and aspirations dashed by this experience for the young ones.

There is something in human nature that longs for heroes and saviors.  We endlessly seek people to look up to, be inspired by. Whether in the family, politics, sports, business, or religion, time after time we put people on pedestals and look up to them and expect more of them than is sometimes justifiable.

"Kids often confuse celebrity with heroism," says family counselor Sherri Young. This is true! Being prosperous in a profession or the ability to play football, sing well or run fast doesn't necessarily make someone a hero, but young children and teenagers don't see that. They see success and fame and they think to themselves...."I want that too!"

And when those heroes fall, it can be disappointing to kids.

It is perfectly OK for kids to admire affluence and successful athletes but schools and parents should strive to keep that admiration from reaching the level of worship. One way to do that is to give your children other people — people your school and household approve of — to admire.

The first thing to do is for parents especially to be exemplary role models to their kids. Studies have shown that kids look up to their parents and parents need to keep this in mind. The 'weak' rule of 'do as I say not as I do' will never hold water with children. They become what they see from you. Parents also should take the opportunity to point out other positive role models to their children.

If you want to know what your child thinks, ask who they admire and what they think makes someone a hero. Explain that many people have admirable qualities, but if you look hard, you can find something not to like in everybody. Soon enough, you will find out what type of value system your child has imbibed or is imbibing.

I think that any time your child hears of a disappointing news about their hero; that it is then a good time to tell them your honest opinion. Whether it's an issue of breaking the law as we see in every 'driving minute' of our daily lives in Lagos or just about values, it immediately begs of a good chance to talk to your child about what you believe and why. Is it OK to use performance-enhancing drugs? Why not? Should you have premarital sex? What are the consequences? Should the social media dictate your image and style? What should then be your guiding light?

These are invaluable teachable times.

Book, Line and Sinker - Is our love for reading eroding?

Titles like Eze goes to school, African Writers Series, Things Fall Apart, Oba Ovanwenren, The Lion and the Jewel, The Gods Are Not To Blame, Weep Not Child and writers such as Charles Dickens, Thomas Hardy among others were every student’s delight and prized possession many years ago. Many of us recited quotations from William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, Merchant of Venice, Julius Caesar , As You Like it etc. One question readily comes to mind when I think about the current reading culture in Nigeria. Is it possible to enjoy reading or be encouraged to read when there is no electricity? That is a thought for another day!

The advent of computer games found in play-stations , smart phones and the iPad as well as the easy internet access to information seem to have taken over the minds of students today. I have to say that I am guilty of giving such access to my children as well but I draw a thick line as much as I can. Why? It is because I understand that we collectively have more to loose if I don't safeguard the reading culture in my home. My three year old daughter loves books so I intend to introduce a lot of books and read more to her.

I was talking to a friend earlier today about this topic and it suddenly dawned on us that we don't have a single library in the part of Lagos we live in! Is this not telling of where our reading culture is going? A lot more people are lacking content these days - no wonder the now popular saying "IT IS WELL" thrives in our vocabulary! I am worried!

There has to be some drastic move towards rekindling the passion to read among young children and students. Where are the people who will build libraries not 'high-rises'? Where are the people who will set up book clubs even if it were to be in the small spaces in their homes if possible?

Why is the sustainability of the reading culture important? It is no longer news that the Nigerian reading habit is generally low and this has been confirmed by several experts and as part of efforts to stem the tide, the federal government launched the Bring Back the Book, BBB project on December 20, 2010. This initiative is a brilliant idea as I hope that it is sustained.

Some of the plagues to hit us if we don't act quickly will include low intellectual capacity, illiteracy, uninformed youth and additional poverty of the mind among others.

 When a people read, you have:

• a country of avid, lifelong readers who read widely and value literature and varying cultures.
• an education system that integrates reading, library use and information at the core of the curriculum at all levels
• a system that encourages reading for pleasure and lifelong learning.
• a flourishing writing and publishing industry to support the increasing demand for books and other reading materials

Our families are at the epicenter of this matter as it has become imperative to start correcting this ill  from home. From their early childhood stage, begin to share books with children and read with them. Read billboards, sign posts, street names, labels, newspapers and books together! You may just be harnessing the skills of Nigeria's next Nobel Laureate! Recently, the Vice Chancellor of a university said to his students, "leave Facebook and face your books"....funny but true. 

From the lips of a 15 year old author - Groomology 102 (School Success)

Yes.....from the lips of a 15 year old author of 'No fault of Mine' named Ruth Momodu !

These young minds know more than we think they know or more than we will like them to know.

The falling standard of our education cannot be blamed on low parental involvement completely because there are many factors to consider. Factors that include teacher quality, training, methods of teaching, student preparedness, curriculum effectiveness and delivery, infrastructure and poor governance.

It is seemingly rare but you could find good teachers that will influence a child's intellectual abilities positively without parental assistance or guidance. This usually happens when the teacher has begun to play the role of a parent in the child's life. However, a parent's influence on the education of their child can be termed to be magical! From my experience, it has literally moved grades up from an 'F' to a 'D', and a 'C' to an 'A' . It also affects character formation; it goes as much as to transform a child with a low esteem to one with a soaring confidence; changing a person from exhibiting bullying acts to a character that is exemplary.

And her sources of inspiration? I am excited that she recognizes and follows these two great Literary icons. Ruth Momodu is a Learning Craft CELEBRIKID™. Read her story...

Fifteen-year-old playwright, Miss. Ruth Momodu, has blamed the falling standard of education in the country on parents who neglect their responsibilities towards their children. Momodu, a pupil of Westminster International College, Lagos, who spoke at the public presentation of her book titled, ‘No fault of Mine’ in Lagos on Saturday, said though schools were instituted to impart knowledge into pupils, that was not enough for parents to relent in instilling morals and discipline in their wards.

She said, “Parents must not only teach morals but should assist in discovering and developing their children’s talents as a way of contributing to the nation’s development because we believe we are the future of Nigeria.

“I started writing about five years ago. Then, I was 10 years old but my parents have been helpful by encouraging me and putting me through to do better. Now, I have other unpublished works. Nigeria will be great and our education sector will also regain its lost glory when the government, youths, students, teachers and most especially the parents, decide to play their roles.”

Speaking on her source of inspiration, Momodu said the literary works of two novelists of international repute, Professors Wole Soyinka and Chinua Achebe encouraged her to become a writer.

She noted, “The duo are literary icons making Africans relevant in the world with their works. They are my mentors, and young people like us need to start now to sustain this legacy after their exit.”

Also, the author’s mother, Mrs. Rita Momodu, urged parents to discover the potential in their children, adding that it was one of their core responsibilities.

She said, “The greatest investment is to invest in your wards. When we invest in children, we are investing in our tomorrow and even in the nation’s future. Parents must be ready to assist their children to succeed.”

What more can I add to that?  Click to read Groomology 101 (School Success)

The year that was 2012.....and a hopeful 2013!

2012 has come and gone and we did experience many highs and lows! It isn't surprising to me that one of the richest men in the world, Bill Gates, set up a foundation in Nigeria whose primary aims are, globally, to enhance healthcare and reduce extreme poverty, and in America, to expand educational opportunities and access to information technology.

For those of us who are privileged to be in the education sector, one which is considered to be most important in any country and one that grooms the world, we are working hard to make sure that we spread the simple message across to all Nigerians. Education; quality education is the only tool we need to make that change!

I implore all Nigerians especially those whom the youth look up to as mentors; concerned citizens, industrialists, education institutions, corporate bodies, multi-national companies, celebrities etc. to lend their voices in support of the provision of good education. Visit our public schools, see and review their state, speak to the students and lend a hand.

Here is a preview of how we fared in the year 2012:

- The subsidy removal brought a halt to transportation and many students were left stranded at home. Schools closed down due and reopened very late in the year. ASUU (Academic Staff Union of Universities) went on strike also and this further delayed the beginning of educational activities in the universities.

- The Federal Government released a statement that it had spent N3trn on education but that there had been a little impact. This statement stirred up negative reactions as critics said the Federal Government could not have spent such an amount, especially with the various challenges still befalling the sector.

- The National Universities Commission(NUC) announced guidelines for the operation of part-time programmes in Nigerian universities. The commission also outlawed over-enrolment, limiting admission for part-time programmes to 20 per cent of regular student intake. This ensued a battle between the NUC and part time programs.

The National Universities Commission then announced the suspension of all part-time Programmes run by universities in the country. The Executive Secretary of the commission, Prof. Julius Okogie, said the suspension of the part- time programmes was to enable the regulatory body “streamline’’ them

- Boko Haram attacks university students in the northern part of Nigeria killing students and some lecturers.

- Expatriates had taken over leadership of an important percentage of private schools in the nation. Some people attributed this development to the high demand from parents.

- About 15 pupils of Divine Wisdom Group of Schools, Amosun area in Lagelu Local Government Area of Oyo State were injured in a fire outbreak as the school bus conveying them to school suddenly caught fire.

- NYSC posting to troubled states. This caused an uproar as many corpers refused to go to these troubled states.... I wouldn't!

- ESUT VC kidnapped

- 2012 WASSCE results out, best in three years

- FG approves N18bn for 9 new universities

- The National Union of Teachers, Lagos Chapter, threatened to go on an indefinite strike if their demand for 27.5 per cent increase in salary in line with the new Teachers Salary was not met.

- Gunmen massacre 23 students in Adamawa State.

- Sheila Solarin, 88, widow of the late renowned social critic, Dr. Tai Solarin, died at the Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilishan Remo, Ogun State.

She had reportedly slipped while going to bed some months back and was rushed to the hospital where she was operated upon.

- The University of Port Harcourt killings.

On October 5, this year, the quartet students of the University of Port Harcourt, Biringa Chidiaka Lordson (year two, Theatre Arts), Ugonna Kelechi (year two, Geology), Wike Loku (year two, Civil Engineering) and Tekena Erikena – were lynched and their corpses burnt for allegedly stealing mobile phones and laptops. The heinous act took place in Omuokiri-Aluu in Rivers State. All the victims were aged below 22 years. 

- A teacher allegedly flogs a 12 year old student to death. A report on status of the teacher is yet to be unveiled. Read more here.

- JAMB introduces Computer-based test.

- Principal conducts virginity test on pupils

Principal of Ajuwon Senior High School, Ajuwon, Ifo Local Government Area, Ogun State, Rev. Olufunke Oladeojobi conducts virginity tests on students.

I have to say that we recorded more negative news in the year 2012 but I am looking forward to a hopeful 2013 that will give rise in access to good education to many Nigerian students. It is my New Year's wish. Thank you LC readers. 2013 promises to be a year full of fulfilling activities. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Covenant University expels about 126 students for not attending a church service - a case of a punishment too severe?

I can't help but blog about this because it brings a lot of deep concerns home to me. I have a colleague whose child was suspended for a session from  the same school for dressing 'inappropriately' even though she was found all covered up with a scarf.

Schools are often within their rights to punish students who refuse to conform to the school's code of conduct which may include dress codes, spiritual commitments, banned food and items etc- Some student's may expectantly find some status quo more difficult to keep.

However, expulsion as a means of punishment has always come across a bit too extreme to me except in rare cases. It is the hallmark of a school to educate and give a hopeful future. I find that most of the motives behind these punishments are met to the contrary, doing more harm than good generally. There are too many questions to be asked. The desire to learn tends to be doused as an aftermath of explosion. So consider this;

• Was the so called 'grievous' offence warranting of the psychological and emotional harm to students and what image does it leave of the institution? 
• Is this the best measure to embark on in molding the student towards developing a responsible yet confident behavior-does it make them conform?
• If the student was caught in a wrongful act, expulsion may adversely change the course of the student's life suddenly. Will it not will surely bring additional pain, fear and worry for the future?

I sincerely think that many of reasons students get expelled from school are not worth an expulsion.....especially for "not attending" a church service!

I am aware that the students in a school such as the Covenant University are aware of the rules that must be followed. I'm only wondering if the 'Deity' whom is to be served wouldn't have reacted differently in the face of such a situation. After all, it has been asked.... "Let the one who has committed no sin cast the first stone!" 

I rest my case!

Read full reasons for expulsion here.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to The Learning Craft Readers!

I have been away for quite some time.....very odd for a blogger but it was for very special reasons, many of which you will all be privy to know as they develop. My absence was very much needed for the blog. Well, I'm back now and yes...it is the time of the year when we all sit back, evaluate our year and make resolutions we hope to stand by! It is also the time when we gather as a family and give love. Children love this season not only because of the gifts received but also because of the love and warmth of family time it comes with. However, don't forget to leave that gift under the Christmas tree now....(smile)! 

2012 has been a year of interesting events for education in Nigeria, many of which we laughed, cried and hoped for change! It was the birth year of the blog and the birth of beautiful dreams to come true in 2013. I'm looking forward to a better year for education in Nigeria! I promise to champion the causes closest to my heart and keep holding on to the dream that we can practice the minimum standards of education in its totality in Nigeria to the grassroots.

So, with a grateful and thankful heart, I wish all Learning Craft readers the merriest of 'Christmases' and a budding/fruitful year ahead. To all my followers, contributors and readers, I specially say thank you. It is because we believe in change collectively as Nigerians; that I am convinced that we will attain better results for education in Nigeria.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Do we need Teacher Assistants across all primary classes?

In my years of teaching, I cannot underestimate the importance of Teacher Assistants. Having taught in a school where it is not practiced, I have always known that the knowledge being passed on would have a higher percentage of success if there were a teacher assistant in each of those classrooms. It is even somewhat ludicrous to see how effective teaching and learning in primary schools can be without teacher assistants especially in Lower Primary classes from grades 1 - 3.

Cutting edge schools that are applying effective modern practices have chosen to employ increasing numbers of Teacher Assistants. The reason is to support the delivery of quality teaching and a modern curriculum. It is encouraging to note the ample evidence from research and inspection that many teacher assistants are helping to raise standards in the classrooms in which they work.

The essence of the successful deployment of these assistants lies in the nature of the support that they can provide. They include:

• support for the pupil

• support for the teacher

• support for the curriculum

• support for the school.

Teacher Assistants help to:

• Support classroom management and assist with general administration
• Help manage pupil behaviour.
• Support pupils’ health, safety and emotional/ social development.
• Establish relationships with learners.
• Help pupils to access the curriculum.
• Support the development and effectiveness of work teams.
• Work with other professionals
• Liaise effectively with parents

The essence of the job is supporting children to learn under the guidance of a teacher. The sort of tasks will vary from school to school and even from teacher to teacher depending upon the needs of individual pupils and /or classes. The tasks could therefore include:

• Supporting small groups in the classroom – especially literacy and numeracy. This is done to reach all weak students and to ensure understanding of all concepts taught
• Working with individuals or small groups outside the classroom when appropriate. This includes ensuring safety in classes.
• Preparing and modifying learning materials
• Supporting individuals to keep attention on the lesson – monitoring behaviour to help keep them “on task”.

 There you go! How can we "really" teach effectively without Teacher Assistants? Keeping it real.

Inspector Gadget - Why, Oh Why?

Some public office holders are impressive! In October 2012, Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State announced the removal of 41 zonal inspectors and chief inspectors of education and local government education officers over non-performance and negligence of duty in continuation of the on-going sanitization of the state education sector. The decision, according to him, was the outcome of a continuing performance audit. He even went on to demote the Vice-Principal of a particular school for his incessant late coming. BRAVO Governor Adams!

I had to go around for meetings a few days ago and I came back with very many mixed feelings. In some cases, it felt like 90% of our schools are finding it rather difficult to appreciate what education means BUT as an educator, I know that this is not entirely true and there is more than meets the eye. However, there are many schools that are waving the flag of education in spite of the challenging environment and resources they have.

In the coming months, I hope to begin reviewing schools' standards and post ratings and I hope to involve as many Learning Craft readers. This will help in your decision taking regarding choices of schools for your children.

The primary responsibility of Education Inspectors (individuals who are in charge of the monitoring and maintenance of Minimum Standards in Schools) according to our National Policy on Education shall be to: 

• diffuse information about instructional materials tested and effective teaching methods; 
• obtain information in respect of difficulties experienced by teachers in schools and institutions and further provide advisory solutions through appropriate authorities; 
• monitor and document the overall quality of education in schools and proffer practical and positive advice; 
• organize meetings with and workshops for teachers when necessary with a view to improving their professional competence; 
• provide a strong sense of comradeship and professionalism among teachers. 

Now, this sounds all fantastic but I only see Inspector Gadget's tools working...if you  get my drift!

Where are these 'so called' inspectors? We can't afford Inspector Gadget's clumsiness in a crucial time when we must take education in Nigeria to the next level! If they have been going about your duties, many schools will not see the light of day. Children are learning under grossly non-conducive environments and parents are oblivious of the right practices as they are unaware of their rights, hence anything goes. Gosh! I have to say that I am not a great fan of the now popular saying.... 'it is well!'

I saw schools with less-than-standard playing grounds, classrooms with incorrect specifications, windows without cross ventilation, teachers absconding classes, an immeasurable number of safety hazards and inappropriate teaching and learning practices to name a few. 

These are not a function of lack of funds but of mismanagement, clumsiness, corruption and a general lack of maintenance on the practice of our 'minimum standards'. As worthy Inspectors/educators, the onus is on you to build and ensure a brighter future for the average Nigerian child.

“If the teachers don’t teach, we have no future and your brief is to ensure that the teachers work and yet you failed to do that. “It’s a new Edo, everybody must be put on notice to work and justify their pay. I have a duty to remind you that when you have abandoned your job, you have also lost it.” (Adams Oshimhole to the Inspectors of education)

Can the worthy Inspectors and their bosses (in the form of stakeholders - governors and ministries of education) please rise up to the challenge?

CELEBUTORS Spotlight: Education is Giving back as PTA of St Saviours School Ikoyi, Lagos 'adopts' the Canal Primary School, Orile Lagos

Who are CELEBUTORS™ on The Learning Craft? CELEBUTORS™ include persons, institutions, groups and individuals who promote, support and inspire educational development in and for Nigerian Schools. Here are some CELEBUTORS™ we definitely want to know about.

Nine months ago, an unsuspecting set of school pupils and teachers of the Canal Primary School, Orile Lagos had strange visitors walk into their school. They will soon learn that they were all members of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) of the St. Saviours School Ikoyi, Lagos; who upon being told about the degrading environment and near absence of teaching aids in their school had decided to pay them a visit. Kingsley Omose, a legal practitioner and philanthropist had taken the message of the unacceptable condition of the Canal School with pictures and persuaded his colleagues to come to their rescue. 

The core of Education has never been one of profit making. From Informal to Non formal and Formal education, the desire to transfer knowledge has always stemmed from the dreams of selfless persons or groups who appreciate the power of education as a wheel for human improvement.

Since that decision early this year, change has come gradually for good with donations of teaching and learning aids to the children and their teachers. Just last week, with the support of MTN, items worth thousands were given to the Canal School. Items such as 10 white boards,  generating set, 8 tables and chairs for teachers who had none, 2 laptops, DVDs, printers and several educational materials and cash donations were given to the school to get fuel and keep the generator running anytime the lights go out for the comfort of the students.

The Chair person of the PTA, Bolanle Gobir said "we are doing this for the love of children which is our theme in  St. Saviours School PTA this year. We believe that these are the future of Nigeria and we must support them". He added "we have adopted Canal School Orile as our 'baby' and we will do everything to watch it grow"....

....and tears of joy filled the space.

Talking about the future of Nigeria, the PTA of St. Saviours School Ikoyi are the future that is today's Nigeria...... CELEBUTORS™ of our time!

I am so proud of them.

Corona Schools - Competing to make a difference

Encouraging the spirit of inquiry and a healthy competition is one of the objectives of Nigeria's Pre-Primary education. Competitions build teamwork, communication and socialization skills and brilliant discoveries. It creates success and makes people become better at what they can do. Corona Schools' Trust Council is leading by example by organizing the 2012 Inter School Quiz.

The annual competition is part of the efforts of the council to ensure that they develop students that can compete both locally and internationally. The 2012 competition was recently held at Corona School, Victoria Island, Lagos and it featured Debates and Quizzes in English Language and Mathematics, General Studies and the Sciences. These were actively contested by students from all Corona Schools.

The Chairman of Corona Schools' Trust Council, Dotun Sulaiman said while speaking about the significance of the competition, that the whole idea of the competition was to instill in the children a spirit of competition. He said they are hoping to breed winners who can compete anywhere in the world.

LIST OF WINNERS

• Corona School Victoria Island - Overall Winners
• Corona School Ikoyi - 2nd Place
• Corona School Gbagada - 3rd Place
• Corona School Apapa - 4th Place

Ifueko Omowunmi-Thomas, Head Teacher of Corona School, Victoria Island said on her schools's win that, the secret behind their success is a very strong team that worked together. She added that collaboration, team work and the teachable hearts of the children brought them to this success. In her words, "it is a very tough competition, to maintain the record; we have to work a little harder next year. We are going to ensure that we work as best as we can. We have a good system that has a very good progression plan. For instance, when the children come into Corona at Nursery level, we are thinking of Primary Six while we are working with them.

Amazing stuff!

It displayed a show of excellence, intelligence, composure and great skill acquisition - all of these qualities I love to celebrate. 

What can I say? My budding CELEBRIKIDS™!

Wa-Zo-Bia! Schools, how about a "Mother Tongue Celebration Day"?

Since the last time I wrote about saving our indigenous languages on GOING, GOING, GOING....GONE? - Vernacular and our native tongue, I have had to research on practical ways schools could participate in safeguarding our indigenous languages and identity. This is one of those projects that is dear to my heart hence my excitement to share a few suggestions that schools could practice in promoting our mother tongue with The Learning Craft readers.

Before that, studies are increasingly showing that we learn easier and better in our mother tongue. However, it has to be taught in school, which is not what we see for many of Nigeria's minority languages. It may seem difficult to achieve but schools can play a major role in promoting multilingual education in small but strong measures. All languages have a system of sounds, words and sentences that can adequately communicate the content of education and culture.

The International Mother Tongue Day has been celebrated every year since February 2000 to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism by UNESCO. Speaking our mother tongue is a right to education that we must not let slip out of our hands as many of our local languages are being threatened by the more dominant foreign languages.

Why is it so important?

How many of you think aloud in your mother tongue? If you were taught in your language, you might have not had to struggle through those difficult topics. I am not suggesting that our official language be thrown out; but that a multilingual education could have changed many stories. People simply learn better in a language that is familiar - their mother tongue!

Nigeria is a country with loads of cultural and language diversity. Many of our languages are endangered. Getting educated in our local languages however diverse they are; will strengthen the cohesion of our societies and build a better educated populace. The task is not an easy one - but schools can play a huge part in promoting and celebrating our mother tongues to protect our identity.

How? 

By setting a day aside to educate students through a themed 'Mother Tongue Day Celebration' monthly. The objective is to promote linguistic diversity,  preserve our cultural identity, ensure 'education for all' and protect our languages from extinction.  

I suggest that prelude to the day of celebration, students are tasked by teachers to research (in conjunction with their parents) on various aspects of a local language on a monthly basis. Using a thematic approach, this may include cultural aspects of dance, marriage, festivals OR food and fashion. Their work will be presented on the 'Mother Tongue Day'. It will be a day to gain knowledge and exposure to the use of other indigenous languages in the most simple form of communication.

Schools could also adopt the use of randomly selected language for greetings. Every month, a language is chosen as the 'language of the month'. It would be used as mode of greeting and salutation among teachers and students in and out of the classroom.

There is a lot more I have planned out as this is a sneak peek of what can be done.

Here are some more suggestions from UNESCO.

Schoolteachers:  

• Do pupils know that many children in their schools may have mother language(s) that are different from the languages used in their schools?
• Teachers can get these children to introduce themselves and talk about their families and their cultures, and teach a little of their mother language to other children.
• They can read poetry, tell a story or sing a song in their mother language. Paintings and drawings with captions in mother languages can be displayed inside and outside schools.

Language is a symbol of continuity; and identity (in the mother tongue) is one of the greatest binding forces of unity and integration.

If we can deliver early childhood education and primary education all across Nigeria in our various mother tongues, we will also achieve equity in education, better opportunities and education for all.