MoES and Australia develop new guidelines to help multigrade primary teachers support every student
More than 40% of the primary classes across Lao PDR are multigrade, with students from two or more grade levels learning together in the same classroom. These classes are particularly common in rural and remote areas. Recent declines in teacher numbers are expected to make this type of classroom more prevalent.
To provide teachers with more practical support, the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES), with support from the Australian Government through the BEQUAL program, is piloting new Multigrade Guidelines in 30 schools in target districts in Luang Namtha, Xiangkhouang, and Savannakhet provinces in October and November.
Although multigrade teaching is widespread, many teachers face challenges in planning and teaching primary lessons in multigrade classes. Teachers need to adapt lessons and activities for students of different ages and learning levels, while managing classroom time and keeping every group engaged. At the same time, multigrade classrooms create rich opportunities for students to learn from one another. Older students can support younger learners and share their knowledge and develop cooperation skills.
For teachers who are well supported, multigrade classes can also be rewarding. Ms Syvone Seirsoualy, a primary teacher from Luang Namtha enjoys the energy and variety of teaching students from different levels: “I love teaching multigrade. The class is always busy, with many activities, and I find it more enjoyable than teaching a single grade. But multigrade teaching can be very challenging. When I face a difficulty, I look at the teacher guide, watch some teacher development videos or ask other colleagues or pedagogical support staff. If I don’t teach well, my students may feel bored or less active in the classroom. That motivates me to find ways to improve my teaching!”
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