In line with its ongoing commitment to enhancing education quality and equipping teachers with the competencies required to face the challenges of the digital age, the School of Educational Sciences at the University of Jordan has launched a new research group titled: “Empowering Teachers: 21st Century Skills." This scientific initiative marks a strategic step aimed at reshaping the concept of teacher preparation and solidifying the teacher's role as a driver of change and innovation in modern learning environments.
The significance of this group stems from the University of Jordan's belief that teacher empowerment is not merely an educational objective, but a comprehensive transformation process that lays the foundation for a learning society capable of keeping pace with rapid global changes. The group seeks to study and develop teachers' cognitive, digital, and ethical competencies through applied research and interdisciplinary scientific partnerships.
The group's work focuses on exploring ways to integrate 21st-century skills—such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, creativity, and digital literacy—into teacher education programs. It also addresses the design and evaluation of sustainable professional development models, including mentorship programs, interactive training, and online learning, all of which contribute to cultivating teachers who can lead classrooms effectively and independently.
Special emphasis is placed on examining teachers' self-readiness to embrace innovation and how their confidence in their professional abilities impacts their pedagogical practices. The group also engages in developing digital competencies, leveraging artificial intelligence to design personalized learning experiences, intelligent assessments, and flexible classroom management systems.
In light of digital globalization, the group seeks to promote concepts of global citizenship and digital ethics among teachers by developing culturally responsive curricula and teaching practices that uphold digital equity. It also focuses on instilling a culture of lifelong learning and implementing project-based learning and design thinking strategies to foster creativity and innovation in the classroom.
One of the group's top priorities is addressing issues of inclusivity and educational equity through assistive technology and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), aiming to ensure fair access to knowledge for all students, regardless of their backgrounds or individual needs.
The research group brings together a distinguished cohort of scholars from the University of Jordan and prominent international researchers. Key members include:
- Prof. Ibrahim Al-Shara'
- Prof. Adnan Al-Dawalat
- Prof. Diala Hamidi
- Dr. Yousef Al-Arouri
- Dr. Jihad Al-Anati
- Dr. Sahar Abu Helou – all from the School of Educational Sciences
- Prof. Majdi Al-Sawalqa – from the School of Information Technology
- Dr. Emily Bendrgrass – Vanderbilt University, USA
- Dr. Fadi Al-Titi – Ministry of Education
- Ghadir Quteinah – PhD candidate in Curriculum and Instruction at the School of Educational Sciences
This initiative is rooted in the University of Jordan's mission to offer innovative, evidence-based educational solutions that enhance teacher competence and support their role as mentors and inspirers in a time of global educational transformation. The group aspires to establish local and international academic partnerships that contribute to the development of educational policies and present practical models for teacher preparation and development.
Through this endeavor, the University of Jordan continues to lead in the field of educational research, reaffirming its commitment to graduating highly qualified and empowered educators capable of shaping future generations founded on knowledge, innovation, and a commitment to justice and sustainability.