Training in Applicative Classroom Action Research

ONE of the objectives of DBE3 is to improve the quality and relevance of teaching and learning in the classroom. To achieve these objectives, DBE3 has planned and implemented an intensive training programs for teachers. The training is intended to increase the quality of teachers which, in the end, will improve the quality of education.

Training in Classroom Action Research by DBE3

Classroom Action Research is an activity undertaken by teachers to improve their performance and teaching skills in the classroom. They do it by evaluating their teaching approaches and then making improvements. By doing this repeatedly, they should improve their performance and skills.

In order to develop teachers who are able to reflect on their teaching and develop their own performances and skills, DBE3 conducted training in Classroom Action Research from August 11-13, 2009. This training involved teachers of core subjects i.e. Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, English and Bahasa Indonesia. This training was the first training in Classroom Action Research done by DBE3.

There were a number of interesting things about this training. First, DBE3 collaborated with the universities and LPMPs (Teacher Quality Assurance Institutes) in the training which also involved teachers from target schools. Second, the training was focused on the identification of learning problems and how to draft research plans to address these problems.

Third, the training was the first phase of the activity and focused on drafting proposals. The selected proposals will get financial support from DBE3. A second workshop, taking place after the research has started, will focus on data analysis and a third workshop will focus on report writing. The second and third workshops will take place in November 2009 and February 2010.

“The training was effective and applicable. Now I understand what classroom action research is after participating in this training,” said one participant.

Interesting and Useful: BTL 2 Training in Soppeng, South Sulawesi

THE BTL2 training held in Soppeng was implemented in a way that encouraged participants to be active. In this training participants had opportunities to practise after they learned some theory. Megawati, a teacher from MTs Yasrib Lapajung, Soppeng, commented, ”This training is interesting and useful for teachers in Soppeng.” She said that she now understood how to develop learning activities which would encourage students to work in groups actively to solve problems. ”I now realize that text books are not the only source of learning. We can make use of resources in our environment,” she said enthusiastically.

Nilawati, a teacher of SMPN 1 Watansoppeng also said something similar. According to this Science teacher, what was interesting in this training was the group activity which emphasized team work. The atmosphere at the training was very positive and lively. It is hoped that participants will apply their experiences in their classrooms in their schools.

”The participants were very active in this training,” said Arif, a school supervisor for Science in the district of Soppeng. He was sure that, after participating in the training, teachers would be able to support their students better and make them more active in learning.” As a supervisor I will assist my teachers. This will be very useful for them and I believe it can improve the quality of learning in schools, ” he added.