‘Active teaching and learning’ teaching methods (from simple question-answer to experiential learning, in and outside the classroom ) aim at increasing the involvement of students in the teaching and learning process. To promote this we are working with principals and teachers but we also want to strengthen the link between the school and the community. Our partners are the provincial branches of the national women’s union that has divisions in the smallest communes. In 2008, the first year of our programme, Vietnam launched the Child-Friendly School movement which among others promotes active teaching and community involvement in education. The women’s union quickly realised that the VVOB activities were very appropriate to support their effort in this movement. Together we started ten ‘education and life’ clubs in 2009 that link community and school. In these clubs, parents discuss education with a focus on active teaching and learning.
Mrs. Nguyen Thi Hong Lien is the Chairwoman of the club of Tien Xuan village in Quang Nam Province and organises monthly club meetings. Each month a different theme is highlighted: participatory teaching methods and active learning, puberty, life skills for children (communication and social skills), study planning, goal setting, etc. This way, club members gain knowledge and gradually change their perceptions and behaviour. Because of her enthusiasm, energy, creativity and humour Mrs. Lien is called “Our Beloved Education Advisor”. Thanks to her facilitation skills the meetings are very lively with energetic discussions, presentations, role-playing and games. The club launched several initiatives (learning together, building a learning corner, re-admit drop-outs) and has raised an education support fund.
The club is popular and in a year’s time membership has almost doubled from 40 to 70. Thanks to the commitment of people like Mrs. Lien, these clubs are successful and the women’s union has started 60 more clubs in 2010.
Nguyen Thi Anh
Chairperson of the Women’s Union of the Tam Anh Nam commune, Nui Thanh District, Quang Nam province, Vietnam
