Transforming the Education System for Teachers and Students (TESTS) in Liberia
The International Institute Research Development Office promotes collaboration between the Ministry of Education, National Commission on Higher Education, and private, public, and religious teacher training institutes to improve instruction quality for Early Childhood Education and Primary Education in Liberia. The efforts further reinforce MSU's capacity by braiding efforts between the International Institute, Center for Student Success, College of Education, and Research and Curriculum Unit with accomplishments including:
- facilitated 8 faculty professional trainings in Liberia
- led development of baseline curriculum assessment
- developed harmonized, unified curriculum for a 4-year Early Childhood Education Degree
- developed harmonized, unified curriculum for a 4-year Primary Education Degree
- delivered reciprocal visits in Ghana to promote professional linkages
- built a coaching and mentoring system to build individual and institutional capacity
StoryWalk with the International Institute: from MSU to Liberia
Definition: A StoryWalk is an interactive learning strategy that combines physical activity with literacy. This is achieved by placing book pages throughout a public, typically outdoor, area and encouraging participants to read while they navigate the course.
Background: MSU previously hosted a StoryWalk in 2021; and since that time, the initiative has taken more permanent root across Mississippi and especially the Mississippi Delta. For the TESTS in Liberia Project, the team incorporated the use of low and no cost resources, resulting in the development of the first StoryWalks in Liberia! This illustrates the broader impact of educational research that is adaptable to a variety of contexts.
What are low and no-cost materials?
Low and no-cost materials are materials you already have on hand, that have been recycled, and/or that come from the environment such as pinecones, leaves, and sticks.
Why it matters?
The Mississippi State University's International Research Development Office is growing partnerships, capacity, and workforce for U.S. and partner benefits.
Uzbekistan Education for Excellence Program (UEEP)
The International Uzbekistan Education for Excellence Program, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which offers professional development training to primary school teachers. The Program was designed to equip teachers with innovative teaching strategies and tools that would enable them to create a student-centered learning environment.
Status: closed in 2023