Program of Re-training Faculty Continued in Bakuriani
As part of ISET's continuing work to improve economics education in higher education institutions throughout the region, ISET held its second regional training session for faculty, with funding from the Open Society Institute: Higher Education Support Program (HESP).
Twenty-three professors of Economics and Statistics representing 12 different universities from six different counties participated in the one-week training program, which focused on the pedagogical challenges of teaching microeconomics. As part of the seminar, master classes were delivered by US professors Mark L. Weinstock, from Pace University in New York and Maryann DiLiberto from Bloomfield College in New Jersey.
The key topics of the classes included active learning, teaching skills and classroom experiments. Participants studied and practiced different methods and techniques to discuss various economics issues. The sessions included the VARK (visual, aural, reading/writing and kinesthetic) and Socratic methods, indifference curves and happiness, the economist as a story teller, a discussion of the day the music died - what caused the panic of 2007, the great recession, game theory, and related issues.
Noted Murakozy Balazs, a participant from Hungary, "what I liked most of all was the selection of topics and the way classes were delivered. The workshop gave us the opportunity to share experience and learn on examples of participant universities. Above all, the week was just fun and unforgettable."
Professors held numerous discussions regarding internet communications and active student involvement, and comparing methods used at their own universities and benefitted from guidance and feedback from senior faculty on their presentations and group word discussions.
In addition to classes, participants enjoyed the beautiful weather of Bakuriani, skiing and skating and the company of colleagues. "One of the primary outcomes of the workshop is the relationship established and strengthened between 12 different universities and participants; the training was well planned and pleasurable," explained Merab Abdaladze, of The International Black Sea University in Georgia.
The next regional training seminar in ISET's HESP-supported faculty development program is planned for summer 2010.
