Curriculum globALE (CG) is a cross-cultural core curriculum for the training of adult educators worldwide. It was developed in 2013 and to date has been piloted in 14 countries. In five modules, it describes the relevant skills needed to design and conduct education offers for adults successfully. Several optional thematic modules are currently available and new ones have recently been developed by DVV International Headquarters, as well as in different regions.
In 2020 the first CG pilot training cycles in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan were completed. A total of 13 and 24 participants respectively passed all five modules, plus an optional module in Kyrgyzstan, and the final examination successfully. The two pilot training cycles were held by trainers experienced with the CG, some of them alumni themselves, from Central Asia and abroad.
Adapting the CG programme implementation to the pandemic
The latter phases of implementation of the programme took place in the challenging circumstances of the pandemic, which did not allow for face-to-face training or coaching sessions. It also caused challenges in the practical application and testing of what the participants had learnt and in conducting the final examination. In order to adapt the programme and equip the participants with relevant new knowledge and skills in this changed situation, formats of blended learning were used for modules 4 and 5 in Kyrgyzstan. The experience with implementing the CG programmes during the pandemic itself served as one additional demonstration of the fact that to date, no matter where we live, digital learning and the availability of training formats via the internet has become a necessity and very popular.
An additional module on “Adult Education Online” was thus specifically developed for the group in Kyrgyzstan by one of the CG trainers based in St. Petersburg, Russia.
During a series of four webinars, methods and approaches were covered that help to make adult education using digital means and virtual formats comfortable and effective:
- Phases of the learning process and the possibility of using interactive methods at each stage of online learning;
- Features of online group processes; forms of group support;
- Supporting the motivation to learn in online formats. Dealing with participants' risks and fears;
-Creating a play space for adult education. Development / use of games in online adult education;
- Creation and support of positive emotions; ways of emotional completion of the course.
At the end of each lesson, participants received creative assignments to be conducted digitally and shared with the group. The answers were collected and formed a common treasury of experience and suggestions, which later they can use themselves and share with colleagues.
CG Distance Learning Platform for the professionalization of adult educators in Uzbekistan
The distance learning platform cgtvet.uz/uz, developed with the Institute for Pedagogical Innovation, Retraining and Continuing Education of Leadership and Pedagogical Staff in Vocational Education with the support of DVV International Uzbekistan, enables employees of partner organizations to improve their skills during the COVID-19 pandemic and lock-down. The platform, likewise, provides the necessary supplementary literature and information on adult learning and education (ALE).
In April 2020, 32 education specialists from all regions of Uzbekistan completed the distance learning course on the first CG module. The course was divided into six stages, each lasted a week. Per stage, participants received assignments and training materials for self-studying (electronic materials, video presentations, additional materials for in-depth study on each topic). To coordinate and facilitate assignments/discussions, a special forum was opened on the platform where participants were able to interact with their tutors to comment, debate and ask questions. At certain stages, electronic surveys, Google Docs, were applied to test the degree of comprehension of e-learning content. As an additional communication tool, a messenger group chat was used. Not only did the group advance their knowledge and skills in the contemporary approaches in adult education, but also enhanced their professional network and capacity to use online resources for teaching and learning purposes.
It is planned that all CG modules will be digitalized for e-learning purposes and become available in Uzbek and Russian languages across Uzbekistan.
CG Institutionalization in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan
A CG-based training programme for adult educators was adapted to the local context and approved by the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Tajikistan. Based on this, from November 2020 to March 2021 a group of 15 trainees participated in a second cycle of CG training held by graduates from the pilot cycle and a third group is in progress since June. This is also seen as a step towards the institutionalization of the CG in Tajikistan, as the training is conducted by one of DVV International’s state partners – namely the Tajik National University's Institute of Professional Development. A feasibility study is commissioned in order to assess options and resources needed in order to further institutionalization and sustainability of the CG programme in Tajikistan.
Initial steps towards the institutionalization of CG-based training programmes are being taken in Kyrgyzstan as well and the first full training cycle with representatives of formal education institutions as participants has started.
As part of its efforts in applying and promoting the CG, in 2020, DVV International Central Asia has produced video lectures to support the CG training, which are globally applicable and freely available here.