Embracing innovation and mental health in education: insights from transformative trainings
The importance of teacher training
In the rapidly evolving landscape of education, the integration of technology and mental health awareness has become paramount. Our trainings in Moldova underscored this reality, bringing together 114 participants from various educational institutions across Moldova. These trainings not only highlighted the diverse technological readiness among educators but also shed light on the pressing need for mental health resources in educational settings.
A diverse technological landscape
The trainings revealed a broad spectrum of technological adoption among participants, with 7% identifying as innovators and 24% as early adopters. The majority, however, fell into the early majority (51%) and late majority (17%) categories, indicating a cautious yet steady embrace of new technologies in education. Notably, there were no participants classified as laggards, showcasing a universal recognition of technology's role in modern education.
Addressing technological fears
Despite the enthusiasm for technological integration, the trainings also uncovered significant concerns among educators. Privacy issues, cyberbullying, and the dependency on technology were among the top fears, alongside worries about how these tools might alter thought processes and behaviors. These concerns highlight the need for a balanced approach to technology, one that safeguards against potential pitfalls while leveraging its benefits for learning.
The critical role of mental health support
A heartening discovery from the trainings was that 85% of participants reported having access to mental health experts within their institutions. This support network, often comprising psychologists and social workers, is crucial for addressing the emotional and psychological needs of both students and teachers. The discussion around mental health technologies, particularly the Triumfland Saga wellbeing game, further emphasized the growing interest in innovative solutions to support mental health in educational contexts.
Positive feedback and future directions
The trainings received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with average scores of 4.66 and 4.68 for the first and second sessions, respectively. Participants praised the practical insights into deep and shallow learning methods, the engaging presentation style, and the introduction of the ICAP model. The Triumfland Saga game, aimed at enhancing wellbeing, was met with keen interest, with 55% of attendees expressing a desire to implement it in their institutions immediately and 45% of attendees expressing some interest. None of participants though that their institution would not benefit from Triumfland Saga.
Conclusion
The trainings served as a powerful reminder of the dual importance of embracing technology and prioritizing mental health in education. By fostering an environment that supports technological innovation and addresses mental health needs, educators can create more inclusive, effective, and supportive learning experiences. As we move forward, the insights and feedback from this training will undoubtedly contribute to shaping a more resilient and adaptive educational landscape.
ESTDEV supporting Moldova
The trainings were carried out by specialists from Estonia - Merilin Reede and Kadri Haljas from Triumf Health. The training was organized in collaboration with Startup Moldova and funded by ESTDEV.
What did teachers think of the training?
First of all I liked the topic discussed. A well-run meeting and interesting people who are committed to growth and who are doing really cool. Interesting and useful things are a source of energy.
Methods of learning according to deep and shallow learning.
I liked all the ideas provided by you about mental health, how to make students learn not overwhelming their brain.
Thank you very much for the presentation. All the information is very useful. Especially I liked the answer to the question: Why do we need mental health technologies?
The information was really helpful, well organised, the game presented is a great solution for kids and adults
I like the way you presented the subject, an enthusiastic way. It's important to understand the effects of our mental health on our learning and teaching.
Following the ICAP model, I think I am at the "I" and Both sessions were interesting and engaging. I will definitely try the Triumfland Saga with my learners.
All the Information was useful, even though some of it is not new to me at all. It's great having professionals sharing their experience and knowledge with us!
I found your insights on technology to be especially valuable and thought-provoking. Your expertise in this area undoubtedly enriched the conference experience for everyone.
What I liked the most was I learned new and useful things, and learned about the new app, also about ICAP. Thank you very much for sharing!
All the information was clear, understandable, and useful. There are many simple things that I've never thought about. I liked the forms of learning.
The language was accessible, the quality info and the way the info was delivered!
I really liked the topic, very useful information was presented, and everyone could understand it. Thank you!
Actually I enjoyed both parts of this webinar,but the most I liked was the part about technology, one of my favourite themes.
All the things you have shared are useful. Thank you so much!
It's an amazing opportunity to have a chance to discover new things, methods in teaching, a new game for health development.
The shared information. It was new and useful!
I liked the most the interactive part and also the way you shared the information with us. I also liked the game and its main goal
Bringing the topic of mental health into discussion that is the most important to talk about but so little taken into account. Mental health that we all deal with. I liked the ICAP (new for me)
We can influence and make a positive impact on children's mental health.
It was interesting to learn something new. I mean ICAP. For sure, I will try this educational game. Thank you so much for spending time with us and sharing the information with us
It was a real pleasure to discover new, useful information. Even though I am a French teacher, the approach was perfect and I really enjoyed the session & the activities. ICAP - one love
It was informative and interesting, worth applying in my work with pupils
The positive thinking you share with us.
Everything was great
The theme is very up-to-date. So, enjoyed everything about it. A perfect presentation of the information and great English. Thank you.
