Author

Samson Mhlanga

Title

EU-ZW Commemorates International Education Day With Workshop On Innovative Teaching Methods

News

On January 27th, 2025, the Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering Department and Faculty of Science and Technology Education at National University of Science and Technology hosted a workshop in celebration of International Education Day. Led by Professors Samson Mhlanga and Lwazi Sibanda, the event aimed to raise awareness about the European Union-funded EU-ZW Project and introduce innovative teaching methods to faculty members.

The workshop focused on exploring the Energy Explore Digital Academy, with a special emphasis on the flipped classroom concept, challenge-driven learning, and remote laboratories. Participants were given a comprehensive demonstration of the Learnify platform, showcasing modules developed for lecturers. A tutorial on the Solar PV Bolivia remote laboratory and its booking process was also conducted, providing insight into the technological advancements that are shaping the future of education.

With a total of 29 participants—nine female and 20 male faculty members—the workshop aimed to equip educators with new pedagogical tools to engage students effectively. “The primary goal is to create awareness about the flipped classroom approach and apply it across various faculties, especially in the Faculty of Education,” said Prof. Mhlanga. “By introducing these methods, we hope to create a ripple effect that will inspire both faculty and students in postgraduate programs.”

As part of the next phase, participants will develop personal teaching modules and content for remote laboratories, as well as challenge-driven learning modules. The Faculty of Education is committed to ensuring the sustainability of the project by offering short courses on flipped classrooms, challenge-driven learning, and remote laboratories in the future.

The EU-ZW project is part of an ongoing effort to promote digital learning tools and innovative teaching strategies in the region, with the ultimate goal of transforming education to meet the needs of the 21st century.

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