The Armenian Government Focuses on Innovation in Education: Technasium in Vocational Education
The Armenian government is focusing on innovation in education, and Technasium in vocational education (mbo) fits this vision perfectly. In the Project-Based Learning (PBL) model of the Technasium concept (for further explanation, see below), students interact with real clients to help solve real-world problems. They are approached as young professionals and are introduced to the professional world. Experts in specific fields guide them throughout the process. Students work on projects in areas such as industrial design, (landscape) architecture, healthcare, or sustainable energy. At the end of each project, the students present a real product.
Collaboration with Educational Authorities
Alvan Tsaghik has been collaborating with KZNAK and within that framework, with MKUZAK, the department responsible for the development of vocational education (mbo) in Armenia, since 2021.
Training Teachers for Their New Role
Teachers play a crucial role in guiding students through their assignments. However, this is no longer just about the traditional knowledge transfer. It is important for teachers to accept that the students are “in the lead” in their own learning process and to understand how they can positively influence that process without reverting to the old role of the all-knowing teacher. Recognizing and becoming aware of patterns and pitfalls is essential. In Armenia, most teachers grew up and were trained within the old hierarchical Soviet system. For them, this new approach is a significant challenge. Alvan Tsaghik is being asked by vocational schools to offer modular skill training in this area. Our goal is to offer a comprehensive training program and to guide teachers over an extended period.
Training Content
Alvan Tsaghik uses the training modules of the Dutch Technasium Foundation in Armenia for their Basic Teacher Training in O&O (Research and Development).
- Understanding and theoretical knowledge of PBL
- Knowledge of tools used in PBL
- Coaching and guidance
- Assessment and evaluation
- Working with clients
- Learning by doing: Teachers experience the same steps as their students
Training at Armenian Vocational Schools
Since 2022, we have been active at vocational schools in the Shirak Marz and Lori Marz regions in northern Armenia. We are primarily asked to provide training in the modules “Understanding and Theoretical Knowledge of PBL” and “Coaching and Guiding.” Participating teachers receive a certificate of participation.
Guidance of Teachers During Projects
Alvan Tsaghik trainers observe and provide feedback during the guidance of students and teachers during projects.
Trainers
- Servaas Beunk, Trainer for Participation and mbo Certification for…
- René Beunk, O&O Teacher
- Lilit Gyunashyan, O&O Teacher in training
- Yester Grigoryan, O&O Teacher in training
What is Technasium Education?
This type of education has officially existed in the Netherlands since 2007. Originally intended to interest students in technical subjects, it has since developed into an exam subject and educational model in secondary education for “havo” and “vwo” students. The concept is also well-suited for use in other educational fields and is implemented in vocational education (mbo) and higher professional education (hbo). Moreover, subjects outside the STEM fields can also successfully apply the Technasium concept.
Clients and Experts from the Professional Field
In an O&O project, an external client gives an assignment to a group of students. The students then work in teams of four or two over a set period. Depending on the assignment, the students present a final product at the end of the project, such as an advisory report, a model, or a presentation. In the lower years, students work in groups of four, focusing on competency development. In the upper years, students seek their own client, and the focus shifts more to achieving results.
Alongside the client and coach/teacher, experts play a critical role in the process. These are highly skilled professionals from the field who serve as a point of contact for students to gain specific subject knowledge.
Professional Training and Self-Development
Students are placed in groups based on competencies and divide tasks among themselves. They conduct research on the theme, create a set of requirements based on the assignment, and develop an action plan. Communication with the client is an essential part of the process. In addition to the concrete project, students also work on developing their competencies. This process is guided by the O&O teacher.
Real-World Assessment
At the end of the project, students receive an assessment from both the client and the teacher based on the final product. The teacher also evaluates the process the students went through.