Helping teachers and students in the integration of ICT in their pedagogical practices in Albania

Abstract

The integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in education is essential for improving teaching and learning processes in the digital era. In Albania, although efforts have been made to integrate ICT into schools, significant challenges remain, such as limited access to resources, insufficient teacher training, and a low level of student engagement. This presentation aims to address the low level of student involvement by proposing practical models for a pilot school, with the goal of supporting teachers and students in the effective integration of ICT into pedagogical practice. The models will focus on embedding digital tools into lesson plans, making teaching more engaging, interactive, and student-centered. Concrete strategies include the use of multimedia resources, online quizzes, and collaborative platforms to enrich language-learning activities and those of other subjects.

In this paper, the most recommended digital tools have been identified and selected to support the development of the four main language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking). In addition, the models encourage a culture of active participation by involving students in content creation, such as writing blog posts, producing podcasts and videos, or developing collaborative projects through digital platforms. To support teachers, the presentation details the steps teachers can follow to access and use each identified platform for each language skill. Practicing with these platforms also contributes to teachers’ professional development by strengthening their digital competencies.

This presentation is a pilot initiative that is expected to provide valuable insights into how educational technologies can be integrated into teaching and later expanded across the Albanian education system, accompanied by recommendations for policy improvements that support sustainable ICT integration.