Ukraine: UNESCO’s platform to bring together teachers and psychologists

Originally founded to support UNESCO's Digital Teacheronline course, the communityhas expanded its scope to include cutting-edge educational methods such as universal design for learning and digital skills development. It has evolved from a platform for exchanging teaching techniques into a comprehensive resource for psychosocial support, where participants engage in critical discussions on topics like preventing professional burnout, resolving classroom conflicts, and supporting children with educational challenges.

Psychological well-being is now a central theme, with regular webinars, workshops, and club meetings covering issues such as adaptation to school, combating violence, and aiding children with special educational needs. These trainings offer educators and psychologists practical resources and expert insights to stay up-to-date with the latest methods and tools, but also best practices related to the current difficult conditions in Ukraine.

For many, the community is not just about gaining knowledge but also about finding emotional and professional support. For example, Natalia Ivashchenko, a dedicated chemistry teacher from Donetsk region has greatly benefited from her involvement. Natalia shared how the community has introduced her to innovative teaching methods, such as interactive technologies and game-based learning. "Thanks to the community, I now have a better understanding of how to make lessons more engaging for my students, which increases their involvement," she says.

One of the most significant resources for Natalia has been the webinar on trauma-informed teaching during the war, which provided insights into supporting children's emotional needs amid ongoing war. "This webinar helps to understand the psychological characteristics of children during the war and create a safe learning environment. The topic is relevant in today's conditions. The war leaves a deep mark on the psyche of children, and teachers need additional knowledge and tools to create a safe and comfortable environment," she reflects.

Understanding each child's unique needs is also crucial to Natalia's teaching philosophy. The community's posts and resources have helped her develop a more individualized approach to learning, creating a comfortable environment for her students. In addition to teaching strategies, the community offers guidance on conflict resolution, which Natalia has found invaluable. "I've learned how to approach classroom conflicts calmly and constructively," she explains, a skill that has transformed the dynamics in her classroom.

Team building is another vital aspect of Natalia's journey in the community. She emphasizes how team-building activities are not just fun exercises but essential for creating a cohesive and effective team of teachers. "Team building helps teachers learn more about each other, understand their strengths, and work together more productively. It's an investment in both teacher success and the quality of education," Natalia remarks.

The community continues to grow and adapt to the struggling, yet resilient landscape of education in Ukraine. Together with its partners, UNESCO strengthens its efforts to enhance psychosocial support in Ukrainian schools, and the case of Community of Modern Teachers and Psychologists, supported by Japan and Google.org, is a vibrant example of the power of cooperation and shared knowledge.