The best maths and science teachers from across Indonesia are on a six-week study tour in Melbourne as part of that country’s drive to improve teacher quality for its new national curriculum.
Victoria University is hosting the 40 secondary school teachers who were chosen by Indonesia’s Ministry of Education to observe Australia’s STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) curriculum.
This is the third year VU has managed the study tour, which includes classes at Victoria University’s English-language centre and accommodation at the University’s Maribyrnong Student Village.
In addition to visiting primary and secondary schools across Melbourne, the teachers will also visit places such as Scienceworks, Melbourne Museum, the Victorian Space Science Education Centre at Strathmore Secondary College, and Phillip Island for an outdoor class conducted by park rangers.
Once they return to their home provinces, the teachers will run workshops in their school districts to pass on what they have learned.
“This program highlights the regard in which the Victorian education system is held internationally and is a positive example of the two countries working together to effect change at the local level,” said Victoria University English General Manager Michael Ratcliff.
In their free time, the teachers build networks with their colleagues who are from across Indonesia.
“Previous groups were especially fond of Footscray because of its cultural diversity and readily available halal food, and they also enjoyed the student village where they can cook and share meals.”
Schools the group visit will include:
- Australian International Academy, Coburg
- Maribyrnong Secondary College, Maribyrnong
- Dinjerra Primary School, Brimbank
- Gilmore College for Girls, Footscray
- Footscray Secondary College, Footscray
- Northcote Secondary College, Northcote
