Continuous Teacher Training: A Central Tenet of GLXi’s Mission in Guatemala
Continuous Teacher Training: A Fundamental Pillar
Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.
Many are familiar with this idiom, which speaks to the transformational power of teaching, versus just providing.
It’s one that often comes to mind when we think of our mission and work here at Global Learning Exchange Initiative (GLXiⓇ).
Did you know that GLXi is one of the few organizations in Guatemala that offers continuous training to teachers, as part of its goal of improving literacy rates among young students?
The reason is because we believe in the power of the teachers themselves, and know they are the ones who are best equipped to address the needs of their students. All they need is the proper tools and training. Their drive, instincts, intellect, and seemingly limitless energy take care of the rest.
Our program aims to prove that continuous teacher training is a fundamental pillar for ensuring quality, up-to-date education for generations of public school students in Guatemala – especially in the early stage of the school system.
Teachers Seek out Continuous Training
GLXi offers continuous training to pre-K through Grade 3 teachers in two ways: through our “Open Books, Open Minds” (OBOM) teacher training program, and our “Open Minds in Action” workshop program. The former certifies public school teachers to teach our curriculum; the latter works with our certified teachers to keep their training up-to-date and evolving with the needs of their classrooms and a changing educational landscape.
Both support a central tenet of GLXi’s mission in Guatemala: that expanding teacher capacity is key to improving education in classrooms.
During the early grade school years, children develop essential skills such as reading and writing, which serve as the foundation for their future learning. Adopting innovative strategies and methodologies that include technology is key to optimizing this process and reducing the educational gap in the country.
All our teachers can choose to continue their training each year, updating their methodologies, and strengthening their personal and professional skills.
Teachers earn five Ministry of Education credits per year with our OBOM program and four per year with our workshops.
These credits and skills that our teachers gain are invaluable in Guatemala, particularly in indigenous regions, where teachers are in high demand. This enables GLXi teachers to not only contribute to their communities but also thrive in Guatemala's competitive job market.
Open Books, Open Minds
Each year, we train a new class of 40 to 60 public school teachers in the OBOM program. This occurs during the school year, with the goal of certifying them to teach our curriculum.
The selected teachers voluntarily engage in 18 sessions (90 -110 hours), using a virtual format that focuses on the four components of guided reading, individual reading, guided writing, and independent writing.
By the time they graduate, these teachers are ready to bring the Open Books, Open Minds curriculum into their classrooms.
Research shows that continuous education for educators elevates learner performance and equips teachers with invaluable insights into student learning dynamics.
Through continuing education, beginning and veteran teachers can improve content delivery methods and refine their skills to increase effectiveness.
“Education is the bridge to new opportunities, and teachers are the ones who build it every day. Continuous training not only strengthens their skills but also enables them to innovate, adapt, and better respond to their students’ needs. Integrating technology into the classroom opens up a world of possibilities, making learning more dynamic and accessible. At GLXi, we are committed to the continuous growth of our teachers because we know that a well-trained educator not only transforms their classroom but also inspires an entire community to believe in the power of knowledge.”
Not just that, but GLXi also provides a plethora of materials and technological tools for implementing the curriculum. More on that in a bit. But first, let's talk a little more about how we teach the teachers – because it doesn’t just end with our teacher training program.
Open Minds in Action
GLXi understands the importance of continuing education and professional development for teachers.
That is why we initiated monthly workshops for certified GLXi teachers to instruct on different teaching methodologies. We also provide them with information, tools, and meaningful activities to address areas of concern raised by teachers and identified through student evaluations.
Workshop topics have run the gamut. They have included crucial sessions focusing on learning difficulties and disorders – providing tools for recognizing the warning signs, causes, and consequences of such in academic, social, and emotional settings.
Each workshop is usually two hours in length.
Beyond just providing knowledge, our workshops create and nurture a vibrant professional network where educators exchange ideas, share best practices, and cultivate a collective reservoir of insights.
This collaborative platform empowers teachers to adapt, innovate, and excel in their educational journey.
Continuous training also allows teachers to learn and apply strategies that cater to the needs of every child – each with their own characteristics and learning paces – facilitating a more inclusive and effective learning experience.
Continuous Training also Means Access to Technology
Research in the field of education is constantly evolving. Technology is an important part of innovating and becoming competitive in today’s world.
Training teachers in technological tools allows them to integrate applications and digital platforms into the teaching process. When the teacher can incorporate educational videos, stories, and projected exercises into their lessons, children's reading and writing skills invariably benefit.
GLXi provides a chromebook, projector, pointer and 480 digital books for each teacher to use in the classroom, in addition to their physical library and materials. For most of our teachers and students, this is one of the first interactions with technology they experience.
This is a source of great excitement for teachers and students, and allows for a varied and dynamic learning session. Understandably, 480 physical books couldn’t be purchased every year for a single classroom or even school – but with the digital library, children can experience new stories all year long.
GLXi’s Snowball Effect
Teachers who participate in continuous training inspire their colleagues and peers to seek innovative teaching strategies.
This fosters a collaborative environment where improving teaching practices becomes a shared goal.
And it creates a multiplying effect within each educational institution and community.
Thanks to this snowball effect, GLXi currently has a waiting list of eager teachers that want to be a part of this educational change.
At GLXi, we work continuously on teacher training so that educators can feel confident in asking questions and being directly involved in planning, evaluating, and reviewing their class programs.
A teacher who is continuously learning remains motivated and committed to their work. Continuous training provides new perspectives and challenges that enrich the teaching experience and prevent stagnancy in education.
You can help support GLXi by donating here.