Context and background

We start with the development of teachers' competences and their self-development. We propose guidelines for primary schools that choose transformation in a pupil-centric approach (LCA), where we follow Gabriela Lojová's 7 key principles of LCA - active learning, content (relevant knowledge), cognitive + affective domains, approach to students (acceptance, encouragement), positive learning atmosphere, teacher roles and student roles. This project is built on three key interconnected frameworks: the implementation of the LCA in line with the EFQM model of excellence and the Learn & Lead self-development idea developed in many Erasmus+ projects. Together, they fit perfectly into a development project aimed at continuous quality improvement in education.

The main objectives of the project are:

• improve the quality of higher education by implementing a pupil-centred approach;

•develop excellent schools based on the EFQM Excellence Model;

• develop leadership and functional management, develop the path of teacher development in the school environment.

Description of activities

In this project, we create

- the framework for the development of LCA teachers,

- the LCA self-assessment sheet,

- the LCA guidelines for primary schools,

- the curriculum of three study subjects entitled "Pupil-centred approach 1B, 2B and 1M,

- the curriculum of the subject of study called "Self-Development Learn& Lead" for students-teachers in the final year of master's studies,

- two study programmes for innovative lifelong learning programmes for additional teachers, "LCA application for teachers" and "Self-development of the teacher Learn & Lead",

- we train other teachers and managers on the "Learner-centric approach" and "Self-development of the teacher Learn & Lead" approach,

- we train managers in all kinds of schools and universities in emerging excellent schools based on the EFQM model,

- we train LCA teachers and lecturers who will work with trained teachers in their schools and countries and hold two international LCA conferences.

Number and profile of participants

This project consists of 9 partners from 5 different countries. The project is unique within its consortium of partners - two universities, four primary schools, a private school, a teachers' association and a non-governmental organisation. From the project cooperation we will also include future teachers, managers and teachers. In total, we will involve 326 direct participants in educational activities and organize international conferences. We expect about 500 self-assessment LCAs to be performed on our new website by teachers in partner countries. We also expect to train 120 teachers preparing for new study subjects and 30 additional teachers for new innovative CŽV programmes developed in this project.

Methodology

As part of the project partnership, the ULCA project takes mixed approaches from data collection and analysis, theoretical research, as well as focused group discussions. There is a directly linked order of all training activities and IO, from tools for teachers and principals/managers to the creation of new curricula, the organization of a conference, the publication of the conference proceedings, the creation of project newsletters, the creation and preparation of a website, the creation of the LCA Teacher Competence Framework and the LCA Self-Assessment Sheet, the training of LCA teachers, the creation of LCA model schools, and LCA students are trained by schools and network of LCA schools and educational institutions.

Planned results and impact

By building the competences (knowledge, skills and access) of the teacher at partner universities and primary schools, we innovate and at the same time harmonize the valid pedagogical processes.

When implementing the LCA in line with the EFQM-based model of excellence and the idea of Learn & Lead self-development, teachers and headteachers/managers in schools will be equipped with the necessary tools to improve their teaching and management processes.

A longer-term advantage will be newly accredited study subjects in English, Slovak and Lithuanian (taught at universities) in the LCA and self-development at the level of bachelor's, master and lifelong learning.

Dissemination activities will take place through the project's website, blog, newsletter, social media and international conferences for primary education professionals, academics and the wider public.

Our project has the ambition to play an important role in creating a unique network of all types of schools and teachers currently operating on the market. This network is based on the cooperation, support and further development of all teachers, managers and their schools, and follows a pupil-centred approach as a key pedagogical philosophy.

‍

Ulca newsletter available - HERE