Demont TeachForward Challenge

In today’s fast-paced world, education must evolve to meet the needs of 21st-century learners. With rapid technological advancements, shifting societal needs, and evolving student demographics, the landscape of education is constantly changing.

This is why we decided to host the first-ever TeachForward Challenge on the theme, “Design for Change and Innovation,” which invites educators to explore innovative approaches to teaching and learning that are responsive to these changes. The theme highlights the importance of creative problem-solving, adaptability, and forward-thinking in education.

Demont Teachforwad Challenge

In today’s fast-paced world, education must evolve to meet the needs of 21st-century learners. With rapid technological advancements, shifting societal needs, and evolving student demographics, the landscape of education is constantly changing.

This is why we decided to host the first-ever [competition name] on the theme, “Design for Change and Innovation,” which invites educators to explore innovative approaches to teaching and learning that are responsive to these changes. The theme highlights the importance of creative problem-solving, adaptability, and forward-thinking in education.

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Design for Change
and Innovation

Education is not immune to the forces of change and innovation sweeping across industries worldwide. As educators, we have a responsibility to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the future, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and mindset necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

The theme “Design for Change and Innovation” shows how education can make good things happen and create new ideas. It asks teachers to lead the way in making changes, coming up with new ideas, and supporting progress in their classrooms, schools, and communities.

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    Member 1


    Member 2

    Who Can Participate?

    Teams of three educators currently working in schools are invited to nominate themselves or their peers for outstanding innovation and creativity in teaching. Each team should showcase how their imagination and passion have positively impacted classroom practices and inspired students.

    Time Line

    Registrations
    Open

    May 27th, 2024

    Registration
    Close

    July 15, 2024

    Proposal and
    Video Submission

    September 21, 2024

    Round 1
    Results Announced

    October 7, 2024

    Final
    Round

    October 19, 2024

    Sponsors

    image 3

    Prizes

    1st Prize

    3000 AED
    and 15% Discount on our Teachers Training Programs

    2nd Prize

    2000 AED
    and 10% Discount on our Teachers Training Programs

    3rd Prize

    1000 AED
    and 5% Discount on our Teachers Training Programs

    Additional prizes for other outstanding categories:

    Most Innovative Idea

    Forward-thinking Educator 

    Best Pitch

    The top 10 teams from Round 1 will advance to Round 2, which will take place at our DeMont Campus in Academic City. The top three teams with the highest combined scores from both rounds will secure the winning positions. Give your best effort in both rounds for a chance to win the competition!

    All teams need to prepare a 5-minute video and a written proposal of up to 1000 words addressing the following points:

    • Explanation of the excellence or innovation demonstrated. Have any new initiatives been implemented?
    • Origin of the idea and any challenges faced during implementation.
    • Highlight how the suggested approach is original and innovative.
    • Testimonials from students demonstrating their respect and appreciation.
    • Evidence of results, including any measurable progress or success achieved.

    Submission Requirements:

    • Submissions need to be sent via email to enquiries@demont.ac.ae with the subject line: “School Name – Team Leader Name”.

    Document Guidelines:

    • Static: Word documents or PDF
    • Word limit: 1,000 words.
    • References must be included. Any referencing style is accepted and will not be included in the word limit.
    • Files of a maximum of 25 MB can be submitted.
    • Video submissions must be in .MP4 format and not longer than 5 minutes. Videos can be submitted as a Google Drive or WeTransfer link
    • Both Word Document and Video files must be labeled as follows: “School Name_Team Leader Full Name_Round 1”.

    Important Dates:

    • Results will be announced on our website by October 7th, 2024.

    Plagiarism Policy:

    • Submissions will be uploaded to Turnitin. Cases with more than 10% plagiarism will be disqualified for the round.
    • Cases that show evidence of the use of generative AI (e.g., Chat GPT) will be investigated and/or disqualified.
    • To avoid overlaps, we request participants not to upload submissions to TurnItIn themselves, as this will result in a 100% plagiarism score and disqualification.

    Innovative Teaching – Sharing Stories from the Classroom

    In this round, participants are invited to share their stories of innovation, showcasing the impactful changes they’ve implemented within their classrooms or schools.

    The Challenge:

    You will present your innovative teaching methods. This could include new approaches to curriculum design, integrating technology, fostering creativity and critical thinking, or any other novel strategies.

    Explain:

    • How you identified the need for change
    • The steps you took to implement it
    • The results of your efforts

    Beyond describing your innovations, highlight the tangible benefits for your students, such as improved academic performance, increased engagement, or greater enthusiasm for learning.

    Finally, consider how these practices could shape the future of teaching and learning, potentially leading to greater inclusivity, personalized learning experiences, or the development of essential skills for the 21st century.

    Presentation Guidelines:

    Participants are encouraged to be creative in their presentations, utilizing multimedia elements, real-life anecdotes, and data to effectively convey the story of their innovation. Submissions should be clear, concise, and compelling, highlighting both the practical outcomes and the theoretical underpinnings of their innovative teaching methods.

    • Presentations must be in PPT format.
    • Each team will present as a group.
    • The maximum time allowed per team is 10 minutes.

    Competition Details and Guidelines

    • The competition is open to all teachers in the UAE.
    • There is no entry fee to participate in the challenge.
    • Each school can nominate a maximum of three teams to compete.
    • Each team will consist of three members.
    • Each participating team will receive a certificate of participation, which will be handed out on the final day of the competition. Teams that choose not to attend the final day will not receive a certificate.
    • The decision by the judge will be final and binding.

    Judging Panel

    Rema Menon Vellat

    Founder and Director of Counselling Point training and Development

    Rema Menon Vellat

    Rema is the Founder and Director of Counselling Point training and Development, a career counselling centre established in 2005. The centre is licensed both by Dubai Economic Department and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority. She has a master’s degree in medical and Psychiatric social work and over thirty years of experience in counselling. She was a visiting counsellor at BITS Pilani, Dubai and University of Dubai. She taught in the social work programme at the Sharjah Women’s College as an adjunct in 2023. Rema Menon serves as a counselling partner for the Global Education and Training Exhibition, GETEX and the Int’l Education Show, an initiative of the Expo Center, Sharjah. She also regularly contributes her perspective to Gulf News, Khaleej Times and The National, all leading newspapers in the Gulf. She publishes a book titled ‘Head Start for Higher Studies’ annually. She considers counselling her calling and enjoys working with students and their families.

    Shefali Mathur

    Head of New Dubai Nursery

    Shefali Mathur

    With over 16 years of experience across education, healthcare, and recruitment, Shefali has dedicated the past nine years to early years education. Currently serving as a Trainer and Assessor for NCFE Cache qualifications, she specializes in the Level 2 Certificate for Introducing Caring for Children and Young People, the Level 3 Diploma for Early Years Educators, and the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children and Young People’s Services. Shefali delivers CPD training on crucial topics such as Child Protection, Special Educational Needs, and Creating Learning Spaces, equipping educators with the skills needed to foster inclusive and stimulating environments. Known for expertise in portfolio assessments, curriculum development, and teaching strategies, she creates engaging and developmentally appropriate learning experiences. Passionate about supporting children’s growth, [Name] is dedicated to ensuring they have the resources and support necessary to thrive in their early years.

    Prem Ramachandran

    Vice President, Burson, Middle East, Turkey & Africa

    Prem Ramachandran

    Prem is the Vice President at Burson, bringing over 28 years of PR and communications expertise. He has consulted for over 250 brands across the GCC, Europe, US, META, Levant, and India, including major technology firms like Microsoft, SAP, Cisco, and Oracle. His experience spans various industries, including technology, AI, blockchain, fintech, and more. Previously, he ran White Water Public Relations for 14 years, advising high-profile clients such as Harrods Estates, Ralph Lauren, and OYO Hotels. Prem emphasizes the integration of AI, machine learning, and data analytics in education, advocating for lifelong learning and a blend of technical and soft skills. He also led the award-winning ‘Jeans for Refugees’ campaign, supported by over 100 celebrities. Prem’s career began in Mumbai with TEXT 100, Genesis-Burson Marstellar, and Clea Public Relations.

    Leisa Grace Wilso

    Editorial Director Teach Middle East Magazine

    Leisa Grace Wilso

    Leisa Grace, an esteemed figure in Middle Eastern education with over two decades of experience, has held various impactful roles from teaching to school leadership. Beyond the classroom, Leisa shares her innovative educational ideas through speaking engagements and writing, influencing educators and policymakers across the region. She is the driving force behind the 'Teach Middle East Podcast' and founder of the 'Education Roundup Middle East' newsletter, both platforms dedicated to fostering dialogue and sharing best practices in the region's education sector. Leisa's relentless dedication continues to shape the future of learning in the Middle East, solidifying her position as a leading figure in the field.

    FAQs:

    The purpose of this competition is to recognize and celebrate educators who are implementing innovative teaching practices in their classrooms. It aims to inspire and share these practices with a wider audience to improve teaching and learning experiences.

    Educators from all levels (primary, secondary, and higher education) and disciplines are welcome to participate. This includes classroom teachers, early years educators, lecturers, professors, and other educational professionals.

    Innovative teaching practices can include a wide range of strategies, techniques, or approaches that go beyond traditional methods to engage students, enhance learning outcomes, and foster creativity. This could involve the use of technology, project-based learning, flipped classrooms, gamification, interdisciplinary teaching, or any other innovative method that significantly impacts student learning.

    You can submit your entry by completing the online submission form on our competition website. Please ensure that you provide a detailed description of your innovative teaching practice, including its objectives, implementation process, and outcomes.

    Yes, you are welcome to submit multiple entries if you have implemented more than one innovative teaching practice in your classroom. However, each school will only be allowed a maximum of 2 entries only. 

    Yes, the deadline for submissions will be clearly stated on the competition website which is 17th June ‘24. Please make sure to submit your entry before the specified deadline to be considered for the competition. If your team would like to request for extension please get in touch with us at +971 52 371 0169.

    Entries will be evaluated based on criteria such as creativity, effectiveness, impact on student learning, and adaptability to different contexts in the classroom. A panel of experienced educators and experts will review all submissions and select the winners.

    Yes, the winning entries will be showcased on our website and will be featured on social media platforms to inspire other educators around the world.

    For more information about the competition, including submission guidelines, judging criteria, and updates, please contact our organizing committee via email at enquiries@demont.ac.ae or phone at +971 52 371 0169. We are here to support you throughout the submission process.

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