The Dean of the School of Educational Sciences at the University of Jordan, Prof. Mohammad Sayel Al-Zyoud, held an extensive meeting with the teaching staff of the Higher Diploma Program for Teacher Preparation, in the presence of the Program Director, Dr. Omar Khattaba.
At the beginning of the meeting, Prof. Al-Zyoud welcomed the participants and commended the significant efforts exerted by the teaching staff and the program administration. He emphasized that the success of any academic program depends on the integration of roles between academic administration and faculty members, and on teamwork to achieve desired objectives. He noted that the Higher Diploma Program for Teacher Preparation represents a fundamental pillar in the teacher education system, given its direct role in developing the professional and pedagogical competencies of teachers working in the educational field.
The Dean affirmed that the program enjoys a distinguished academic reputation built over years of continuous and dedicated work, having established itself as one of the leading programs in teacher preparation based on solid scientific and educational foundations. He explained that this reputation is the result of a clear vision, well-designed plans, and sincere efforts by those responsible for the program, in addition to the teaching staff’s commitment to the highest standards of quality in teaching and assessment.
Prof. Al-Zyoud highlighted the importance of focusing on practical and applied aspects within the program, considering this approach one of the key factors behind its success and excellence. He noted that teacher preparation is not limited to theoretical dimensions, but requires in-depth practical training that enables learners to apply educational knowledge in real teaching situations and enhances their ability to deal effectively with classroom and professional challenges.
He also praised the substantial efforts made in developing the content of the program’s courses and linking them to the educational reality and the needs of schools and teachers, stressing that this connection contributes to achieving the program’s intended impact and enhances its practical applicability in the field. He considered the program’s success story a model of how academic vision can be transformed into tangible outcomes that positively affect the quality of graduates.
The Dean stressed the need to continue developing the program and not to be satisfied with the achievements already made, emphasizing that development is an ongoing process driven by rapid changes in the educational field and global developments in teacher preparation. He called for comprehensive and periodic reviews of course plans to ensure their continuous updating in line with the latest educational trends and best international practices.
For his part, Dr. Omar Khattaba presented a brief overview of the program’s journey, its key achievements, and future plans aimed at enhancing its quality and development. He emphasized that the program pays great attention to integrating theoretical and practical components, adopting modern teaching approaches that focus on active learning, critical thinking, and the development of educational research skills among participants.
Members of the teaching staff expressed their appreciation for the continuous support provided by the University of Jordan and the School to the program, noting that this support serves as a strong motivation for continued commitment and contribution. They also proposed a number of developmental ideas aimed at enhancing the program’s effectiveness, expanding practical training opportunities, and improving assessment mechanisms in line with the requirements of the contemporary educational field.
Several participants highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships with local and international educational institutions and benefiting from global expertise in teacher preparation, thereby facilitating the exchange of experiences and best practices and raising the quality of the program and its outcomes. They also emphasized the importance of investing in the continuous professional development of teaching staff as a key factor in ensuring the quality of education and training.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Prof. Al-Zyoud reaffirmed that the University of Jordan, represented by the School of Educational Sciences, will continue to support the Higher Diploma Program for Teacher Preparation and enhance its academic standing. He stressed that investing in teacher preparation is an investment in the future of education and society, expressing his confidence in the program’s ability—through the dedicated efforts of its team—to continue its journey of excellence and contribute effectively to the development of the educational process by providing the field with qualified teachers equipped with knowledge, skills, and professional values necessary to meet the challenges of the modern era.
It is worth noting that this meeting comes as part of a series of periodic meetings organized by the Dean’s Office of the School of Educational Sciences, aimed at opening channels for constructive dialogue with teaching staff, listening to their views and suggestions, and discussing key challenges and opportunities related to teacher preparation programs, foremost among them the Higher Diploma Program for Teacher Preparation, which is considered one of the University’s distinguished academic programs.