Bridging the Classroom Through Innovation

Teaching has always been my passion, but it was technology that transformed it into a mission.

My journey with Tech began far from home – in the UK, between 2012 and 2015, through the British Council’s Connecting Schools Project. It was there that I first experienced the power of digital tools in education. I remember the thrill of video conferencing on Skype with students from Wyke Regis Primary, Weymouth, Dorset. Sharing English lesson plans with teachers and exploring interactive platforms that brought learning to life.

Back in Kitui, I was determined to recreate that magic. My first challenge was access, diverse backgrounds where learners come from, and limited exposure to technology. But I believed innovation wasn’t just about devices – it was about using what’s available to make learning more engaging, inclusive, and meaningful.

 Armed with just my laptop, mobile phone and a blue tooth speaker, my first innovation was the Podcast Pen pals Project. Inspired by my UK experience, I connected my students with peers in UK. They exchanged messages through Skype discussing cultural practices, school life and carried out environmental conservation projects. This not only improved their listening and speaking skills but also fostered empathy and global awareness.

 I introduced Digital story telling in my English lessons. Instead of reading a story from a text book, learners watched animated versions, paused to discuss character motivations. This approach not only improved their language skills but also gave them a sense of ownership.

In 2021, I was able to introduce Microsoft tools in my teaching and learning. With the increase in population in the school, one time I became over whelmed. I had 8 lessons, 8 classes, 60+ each handling English. I introduced Microsoft tools in my classrooms.

On Microsoft Forms I develop post assessments to evaluate learning outcomes, gaps and track progress. Learners take turn to do the assessment, get immediate feedback which helps them understand mistakes and improve. To cater to different learning styles, I design interactive quizzes, and printed worksheets based on learner’s strengths. During lessons I key and track the competencies and skills achieved on Class Dojo App. Each time a learner demonstrates a skill, they earn points. At the end of the term every learner who gets to the agreed points gets rewarded with a certificate generated using Canva or a tangible gift.

Class Dojo also allows me to give instant feedback on student behavior and academic performance. Over time, this builds a digital portfolio of each learner’s strength and areas for growth.

Within the last 6 years as an ICT Champion, CBE ToT in Kitui County and AI master trainer, I have shared my knowledge with fellow teachers. I have led workshops on integrating Tech in lessons, designing inclusive activities, creating professional documents and also using free online platforms for collaboration using AI.

My classroom has become a hub of innovation, inspiring others to rethink traditional methods.

ANNROSE MWENDE,

MATINYANI DEB SCHOOL

KITUI.