The Association of Non-State Educational Institutions of Uzbekistan held a traditional pedagogical conference on March 28 at the Leader School in Tashkent under the general theme 'Teacher as Architect of the Future'. The event brought together over 500 educators and administrators from 56 state and private schools, as well as 39 speakers and trainers from Uzbekistan and abroad. Opening the forum, Association Chairperson Firuza Vakhobova recalled the wisdom of great Eastern thinkers on education and emphasized the need for teachers to continuously develop themselves to successfully guide their students.

During the conference, local and international experts discussed pressing issues in the education sector. Nafisa Abdullayeva, Rector of the Institute for Retraining and Advanced Training of Directors and Specialists of Preschool Education Organizations, spoke about reforms in preschool education, including expanding coverage and introducing mandatory one-year school preparation. She also announced an agreement with UNESCO to open a Category II Regional Center for Early Childhood Education Development in Tashkent.

Foreign experts, including Chongrim Han from the Republic of Korea, gave presentations on using technology and artificial intelligence in education, while Nicola Jane Cooper-Robins from the United Kingdom addressed principles of linguistic inclusion. Early childhood development specialist Sherri Le Motte provided a deep analysis of key factors in children's learning and development, as well as the role of teachers as 'architects of the future'.

In sectional workshops, local and international trainers shared practical experiences on developing student thinking, lesson design using backward design models, applying multimedia in classes, forming phonological awareness in preschool children, and many other aspects. This event served as an important platform for educators to reflect on their practices and acquire new knowledge.

In her keynote, Sherri Le Motte stressed the necessity of building pedagogical practice on six foundations: a strong foundation (brain development), a sense of safety and belonging, clear goal orientation, relationships and connections, meaningful and integrated learning, and continuous professional development. She highlighted the critical importance of teacher-child relationships in the learning process, concluding that 'you, teachers, truly are architects of the future'.

Nicola Jane Cooper-Robins focused on linguistic inclusion, explaining principles for developing multilingualism in education and ensuring all children are included. She emphasized the significance of the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) model, noting that systemic barriers often lie not with the learner but within the system itself. This approach aids in creating inclusive environments in schools.

Source: www.gazeta.uz