Mathematics

PRIMAS Multiplier Concept Implementation in Slovakian Context -
S. Čeretková, I. Jakab, Z. Naštická
Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Slovakia
Introduction
The article presents the PRIMAS multiplier concept implementation in the
Slovak Republic in three main perspectives – organisational, processional, and
multiplier self-reflective. The introducing part briefly describes the overall
PRIMAS dissemination in Slovakian context. Next, the main focus is brought
on the process of preparing courses of professional development at Faculty of
Natural Sciences, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra. This part
covers approaching schools and in-service teachers, CPD accreditation
process, and training multipliers. Consecutively, the contribution comprises
self-reflection of multipliers, who further develop their skills analysing their own
practical experience as educators in CPDs. This results in a summary of
several relevant recommendations for prospective multipliers.
1 Courses of Professional Development policy and Slovak PRIMAS
team strategy
The PRIMAS project team was formed at Faculty of Natural Sciences
Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra. PRIMAS project team had to
consider national strategy (Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Sport
of the Slovak Republic) and also Faculty of Natural Sciences strategy in
courses of professional development (CPD) preparation and multipliers
training. The new Law of Pedagogues came to force in June 2009 and has got
the new version from November 2011 in Slovakia and issues of CPD have
been included within this law. Ministry of Education of Slovak republic
established the special committee for accreditation process for any CPD. SK
PRIMAS team was in contact with three members of this committee, two of
them were PRIMAS NCP members and one colleague worked as an external
evaluator of CPD in mathematics.
The application of CPD for accreditation was very complex. It required detailed
study plan, materials for handing in to trained teachers; assessment
requirements; evidence of trainers’ (multipliers’) competences (diplomas,
certificates). The faculty has the right to run the accredited CPD for five years
if the accreditation is approved.
Teachers are awarded by credits after successful completion of the course(s).
Credits allow them to increase their monthly incomes of about 6%.
The strategy of faculty and PRIMAS team was focused on CPDs of
mathematics and sciences: biology, chemistry, physics and environmental
multidisciplinary subjects. Target group consisted of practicing teachers in
upper primary and secondary schools. In order to attract the attention of
practicing teachers to the course, the content of the particular course tracked
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