Transformative pedagogy for holistic well-being: a teacher’s guide for creating safe and empowering learning environments in times of crisis

Learning & Teaching Materials
Addis Ababa
UNESCO IICBA
2025
73 p.
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Pédagogie transformationnelle et approche systémique pour le bien-être des apprenants: guide de l'enseignant pour la promotion d’environnements d’apprentissage sûrs, favorables et résilients en contexte de crise

This guide is designed to provide teachers with practical, evidence-based strategies to foster a positive, safe, and transformative learning environment that uplifts both learners and educators. It is primarily designed for teachers working with upper primary and lower secondary students, as well as school leaders and support staff who wish to gain knowledge, skills, and practical tools to restore and maintain safe learning environments in crisis-affected settings. Each chapter offers practical insights and activities that will help you reflect, adapt, and apply strategies in your classroom. Chapter 1 explores the impact of crises on education systems, introduces key global frameworks, and highlights your role as a teacher in fostering safe and inclusive learning environments. Chapter 2 provides theoretical background on the ecosystem of the learners, highlighting the factors that support or hinder their holistic development. Chapter 3 introduces key aspects of mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) and how it helps both students and teachers deal with challenges. Chapter 4 presents eight practical strategies to foster a safe and empowering learning environment. Chapter 5 introduces the Transformative Pedagogy approach and its six key elements, demonstrating how each element supports learners’ and teachers’ well-being. Chapter 6 provides practical strategies to identify and support learners in distress. Chapter 7 shifts the focus to teachers, offering self-care strategies and practical ways to support your own well-being. Chapter 8 offers checklists to help you monitor and evaluate your efforts in creating a safe and empowering learning environment.

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