Teachers look to boost pupils’ motivation through sharing ideas

The What Works literacy event saw 300 teachers from 74 schools gather to discuss teaching techniques.

DUBAI // More than 300 teachers from 74 schools have attended the “What Works” literacy event, organised by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Dubai’s education body.

Schools made presentations on how to improve academic performance and encourage pupils to be enthusiastic about reading, while teacher presentations discussed innovative techniques to keep children motivated.

An example of a motivational technique that works is at Deira International School, where teachers upload the writings of pupils to lendmeyourliteracy.com.

“This way teachers and students around the world can read and comment on each others’ works,” said Jennifer Murray, a primary teacher at the school.

“If we are learning to write about poetry, the website contacts poets and authors, who comment on the students’ works. This is like bringing the students’ writing to life and has a massive impact on their motivation.”

On the event itself, Hind Al Mualla, chief of engagement at KHDA, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the support and commitment What Works events have received. Time and time again teachers have taken time out of their busy schedules to prepare presentations for the benefits of colleagues.

“School leaders have connected with each other and introduced their innovative projects. The beauty of What Works lies in its simplicity. Teachers, leaders and inspiring speakers have come from within the community, meaning the practices and knowledge shared is practical, relevant and, most importantly, sustainable.”

This is the ninth What Works event. Previous conferences focused on maths, science and leadership. The renowned Emirati singer, Ahmed Bukhtair, also spoke to pupils at the event.