Successful Baseline Training on Microsoft Technologies Engages All Secondary Education Staff Across Three Cities

Upon the commencement of the 2024-2025 academic year, a comprehensive Baseline Training on Microsoft technologies was conducted for all PASCAL International Education secondary education staff members across three cities: Larnaka, Lemesos and Lefkosia. This foundational training aimed to equip educators with essential skills in utilizing Microsoft 365 tools to enhance collaboration, streamline lesson creation, and integrate digital notebooks into their teaching practices.

Baseline Training Overview

The Baseline Training provided foundational knowledge for teachers new to Microsoft tools, covering key topics such as:

• Introduction to Microsoft 365: Teachers were introduced to essential tools, including Microsoft Teams, OneDrive, and email security, enabling them to navigate the platform with confidence.

• Creating Engaging Content: Educators learned how to create interactive lessons using PowerPoint, Sway, and Forms, making lessons more engaging and dynamic through the use of multimedia.

• Collaboration Tools: The training explored features like Microsoft Teams Channels, Planner, and SharePoint, focusing on how to use these tools effectively for collaboration. Teachers also learned how to set up Teams and organize class content efficiently.

• Class Notebook: Teachers were trained to set up and manage digital notebooks using Microsoft Class Notebook, allowing pupils to access learning materials and assignments digitally, improving collaboration and organizational processes.

Full Participation Across Three Cities

All secondary education staff members from the three cities fully participated in this training, ensuring that the benefits of the session reached every teacher involved. This wide-ranging engagement demonstrates the schools’ commitment to advancing their digital education strategies and ensuring that all educators are equipped with the tools necessary for modern teaching.

Impact on Teaching

The Baseline Training is expected to have a significant impact on teaching practices, with teachers now equipped to use tools like Microsoft Teams and Class Notebook to create dynamic and interactive learning environments. The use of collaboration tools is set to improve communication and efficiency, both within classrooms and among colleagues across different departments.

Conclusion

With the successful completion of the Baseline Training, all secondary education staff members from three cities are now better prepared to integrate Microsoft tools into their classrooms. This foundational training is just the beginning of a larger initiative, with future sessions planned to cover advanced topics such as AI, data-driven decision-making, and innovative teaching methods. The commitment to continuous professional development ensures that educators remain at the forefront of modern educational practices.

The success of the Baseline Training would not have been possible without the dedication and expertise of the trainers. Fani Theophanous, Costas Costa, and Dimitriana Stylianou played crucial roles in leading the sessions, providing valuable insights into Microsoft technologies. Additionally, Loucas Ioannou and Panayiotis Kolios contributed significantly as trainers, offering in-depth guidance and support throughout the program. The contribution of Andria Onoufriou and her team further ensured the smooth delivery of the training, equipping all secondary education staff members with the skills they need for integrating these tools into their classrooms.