Innovative Training Strategies in Jamaica

Jamaica is entering a new and precarious time in history. With the advent of the *Chinese logistics hub along with frequent talks between Jamaica and the IMF, steps are being taken to equip the Jamaican teachers with new and innovative skills.

These skills prepare students for the world of work in a largely diverse and ever changing global classroom. One such skill is the streaming of live online classes for everyone around the world to enjoy. This makes courses available to everyone regardless of geographic location. It also eases the burden for students to rush in traffic to come to classes so they can relax in the comfort of their own home anywhere in the world and participate in class. But most importantly, this strategy is used as an avenue to develop a global brand.

Student centered learning technologies are also used to keep the students engaged in a creative learning environment. Teachers use cooperative learning to put students in groups where they have access to computer tablets with assignments, case studies, videos and other resources. This approach empowers students and enables them to think critically, work in teams and solve problems collectively.

Some teachers go the extra mile to ensure that our students are safe. Teachers pay for phone calls and text messages to check up on the students if they are absent from class or if they have arrived home safely.

Jamaica’s education sector depends on how well we adapt to the technological and cultural revolution that is here to stay. For this, we must encourage ongoing human resource development to ensure that adequately trained personnel are available to companies and organizations. We must also challenge our students so that they can actively participate in this technologically advanced global classroom.

The logistics project is a reference to plans by the Chinese to develop the Goat Islands into a port and logistics centre.