A professor of education at the University of Ilorin, Hamdallat Yusuf, has recommended the use of the 4Rs framework—re-imagine, reconfigure, reshape, and reform—in the teacher education programs in the country.
Delivering the 271st inaugural lecture of the university, titled “Navigating the Nexus of Teacher Education, Curriculum Development, and Social Studies,” Professor Yusuf said that the 4Rs framework is capable of providing theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on skills for teacher educators through entrepreneurship teacher education.
She said that the 4Rs should address the six main components (curriculum development, mentorship and networking, policy and support systems, practical training, technology integration, and impact and results) to integrate educational skills in Nigerian teacher education programs.
“I would like to recommend improvement in the areas of revising and strengthening teacher education programs, professional development, implementation of robust supervision frameworks, addressing infrastructure and resource challenges, integrating civic education in all aspects of teacher education, encouraging technology integration, and encouraging community involvement in teaching activities and making the teaching profession attractive through improved conditions of service,” she said.
Professor Yusuf also recommended a tailored curriculum that would meet local needs and values, explaining that it should adapt the content of social studies to reflect local cultures, histories, and current issues.
The don said that the Re-imagine strategies for improvement in Nigerian teacher education programs should include innovative teaching methods, which involve the adoption of interactive and participatory teaching styles in social studies to engage students.
“Development of Critical Thinking Skills: Using discussions and debate approaches to encourage students to analyse and question societal issues.
“Integration of Experiential Learning: Connecting theory with practice in teacher education through field trips and community projects.
“Increase in Teaching Practice Period: Allocation of a longer period for teaching practice exercise than the current six-week exercise, which does not provide an opportunity for quality pre-service teaching experience.
“Adoption of Interdisciplinary Approaches: Encouraging collaboration between social studies and other subjects to enhance their relevance to contemporary 21st century.
“Re-designing of Teacher Education Curriculum to be Responsive: Making teacher education curriculum flexible to meet the needs of diverse student populations.
“Integration of Community Resources: Making social studies learning more relatable through local leaders and resources in the teaching process.
“Integrating Technology in Learning: Enhancing learning experiences to effectively engage students to meet 21st-century learning needs using digital tools.
“Collaboration with Stakeholders: Involvement of parents, community leaders, and local organisations in the educational process.”
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