Active learning methods in practice

Voantsinapy has introduced a new way of learning that makes school subjects more connected and engaging for students. On Wednesday, the school held a "debate-conference" for eighth and ninth-grade students, bringing together different subjects like Malagasy studies, history, geography, math, physics, chemistry, and natural sciences.

According to school principal Noro, the event which was designed to encourage active learning and participation, was a big sucess. Many students have already asked for more lessons like this because they find it a valuable way to review what they've learned.

– We invited an expert trainer to guide us in the discussion, and the students showed great enthusiasm. The students asked many questions and took actively part in the debate. After the conference, teachers answered their questions, and the facilitators summed up the discussions, which added extra insights to help students understand the topics better, Noro reports via Facebook Messenger after the event.

The teaching method has been developed at the Voantsinapy over some time, is inspired by Swiss and Norwegian educational experts.

Local teachers have then further developed these methods based on their own experiences, ensuring that the approach is well adapted to the local context.

– This exchange of ideas with Swiss and Norwegian institutions has helped the school create an effective and engaging way of teaching, says Noro.

One example was a discussion about human reproduction. As in a natural sciences class, the teacher explained the female reproductive system, how an egg travels through the body, and what is needed for fertilization. The discussion then expanded to Malagasy traditions and social values, especially the expectation that sexual relationships should happen within marriage. 

– This led to a wider conversation about marriage customs in different regions of Madagascar, linking the lesson to geography. Math was also included by looking at financial aspects related to marriage and the local economy, explains an enthusiastic Noro. 

This interdisciplinary approach stands in sharp contrast to the traditional teaching methods commonly used in schools across the island, where students are often expected to memorize and recite information without truly understanding it.

Instead of simply reciting facts, students at Voantsinapy are encouraged to ask questions, make connections between subjects, and actively participate in discussions. This way, learning becomes more meaningful, engaging, and relevant to their daily lives.

– In adittion to helping our students with academic subjects, it also tackles important social and personal topics, explains Noro. 

As teachers highlight the consequences of early sexual activity, such as physical, mental, and emotional challenges, poverty, and dropping out of school, this part of the lesson was connected to civic education, showing students why it is important to make informed choices in life.

In adittion to helping our students with academic subjects, it also tackles important social and personal topics

According to Noro, students have responded very positively to this way of learning. Many have already asked for more lessons like this because they find it a valuable way to review what they've learned.

– We will definitely organize more debates like this in the future.