Student autonomy made impression on guests from Murcia

Mara, Conchi, and Maria from C.E. Los Olivos Murcia visited Ålands Lyceum for a job shadowing mobility program a week in October. As an English teacher, school counsellor, and special education teacher, they were particularly interested in the language teaching methods at Ålands Lyceum, the use of electronic devices in the classroom, and the support provided to special needs students. 

During their job shadowing week, Mara, Conchi, and Maria experienced various aspects of school life. They attended several English classes, as well as classes in Physical Education, ICT, Study Skills, and Drama. There were numerous opportunities to discuss and compare educational systems. Since their school also has younger students, visits to Kyrkby Högstadieskola and Övernäs Skola were arranged. They also enjoyed a guided tour of the local parliament and an excursion to the Åland countryside, visiting sites like Kastelholm and Bomarsund. 

How was your week of job-shadowing at Ålands Lyceum? 

• - Intensive! 

Are there many similarities between your school and Ålands Lyceum? 

• - Some methods are the same. 

• - We both use digital books, but we have more students. 

• - It’s similar yet different; you can’t do the same with 30 students as you can with 15. 

• - Our students don’t use computers in upper secondary; we use a computer trolley for special occasions. 

What is the biggest difference? 

• - No fences around the school! 

• - No bells for class start or end times! 

Mara, Conchi, and Maria were also impressed by the autonomy and flexibility the students have, allowing them to change subjects and courses, resulting in new groups of students each period. 

What are three main impressions you will share with your colleagues back home? 

• The facilities – plenty of space. 

• The students’ autonomy – they have their own power. 

• Respect for the teacher – the teacher’s role is important. 

The activity was financed by Erasmus+