Training of teachers in poor rural areas through a multigrade intervention to achieve millennium development goals : Our experience of using ODL as a tool for building capacity and what lessons can be learned?

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to share analyzed, MG on-line training in South Africa, by means of empirical data as well as first hand experience, with other countries as a contribution to the successful implementation of the Millennium Development Goals. In the Western Cape Province of South Africa a Multigrade rural intervention was implemented, 335 schools participated and more than 900 educators were trained. Out of this intervention empirical data was collected and successful educational actions were started. The distances between and isolation of teacher clusters (networks) formed the core of this intervention. The implementation was accomplish by linking teachers in person, as well as through electronic means, with other teachers and groups to explore and discuss topics of interest, share information and strategies, and identify and address common problems. // PID 708