Innovation and creativity in the classroom to improve the quality of education

Many digital transformation activities, new teaching models and changes in methods have brought about a clear change in the quality of education at the school. The common point of the whole journey is the consistent orientation: Putting students at the center and considering innovation as the driving force to improve learning efficiency.

To better understand this process, reporters from Education and Times Newspaper had an interview with Ms. Le Thi Thoa, Principal of Thuan Kieu Primary School (Dong Hung Thuan Ward, Ho Chi Minh City).

- Madam, how is the spirit of innovation demonstrated at Thuan Kieu Primary School and what directions has the school focused on to create positive changes in teaching?

- For me, innovation does not have to be something big. Innovation is only meaningful when it helps students learn better, become more confident and participate more actively in learning activities. I always remind teachers that every improvement, no matter how small, must be aimed at the benefit of students. When teachers are bold enough to experiment, adjust their methods and see students improve, that innovation becomes the motivation for them to continue trying.

A lesson of students at Thuan Kieu Primary School.

To make a significant change, the school focuses on three important pillars.

The first pillar is to increase practical experience in the classroom. Teachers organize group activities, small projects, discussions, and learning games to make the lessons more lively. This not only makes students interested but also helps them develop independent thinking and communication skills.

The second pillar is to build a technology culture. We encourage teachers to use digital tools to visualize lessons, while also training students in research, presentation and critical thinking skills. Students are exposed to technology in a natural and appropriate way, without overusing it but also without lacking the necessary tools for the new era.

The third pillar is social-emotional development. This is an area that I pay particular attention to. Students are taught how to express their thoughts, listen to others, resolve conflicts, and build positive relationships. A healthy learning environment always starts with students feeling safe and respected.

- Innovation often puts teachers under a lot of pressure. So how has the school supported teachers to implement it effectively?

- Teachers can only be creative when they feel safe and supported at the right time. Therefore, during the summer break, the school organized more than 20 professional training topics with very rich content. Among them, many topics focused on AI applications and digital transformation such as designing E-Learning lectures, using the LMS360 system, applying Gamma AI, Canva, Plickers, or video creation techniques using AI tools.

We also provide training on STEM, reverse thinking, experiential learning, digital citizenship education, communication skills, school counseling skills, and interactive whiteboard application skills.

Thuan Kieu Primary School applies the "Open Lesson" model with diverse forms.

The topics are designed to be practical, helping teachers apply them immediately to their work. More importantly, we create a sharing environment where teachers can observe each other's classes and learn from each other's experiences. When teachers feel respected and supported by the school, they will be more willing to innovate and less afraid to try new methods.

- Does the innovation overload primary school students, especially those in lower grades?

- This is an issue we always consider carefully. Innovation must be appropriate to each student's age and ability to absorb. For grades 1 and 2, teachers only organize light activities such as observing and recounting what they have seen. More complex requirements such as making products or group presentations are only suitable for grades 4 and 5. We absolutely do not compare students, do not force them to participate in activities that are too strenuous. When students feel comfortable and voluntarily participate, the results will come naturally.

- In the 2025-2026 school year, the "Pioneer Teachers for Innovation and Digital Transformation" Contest is considered a highlight of the school. How do you evaluate the role of this contest?

- The contest is an opportunity to look back on the journey of training and innovation of teachers. We want to see how teachers have applied new knowledge, what additional initiatives they have and what solutions are suitable for the reality of the classroom. The theme of this year's contest is "Creative space - Innovative methods - Proactive technology".

Students of Thuan Kieu Primary School are excited in class.

Round 1 focuses on designing digital lessons that integrate E-Learning and AI. Round 2 directly evaluates classroom teaching, from space organization, methods to the level of interaction and learning effectiveness of students. The competition is not only an evaluation but also an opportunity to discover good models, honor teachers with outstanding contributions and replicate them throughout the school.

- What do you expect from the contest and innovative activities in the coming time?

- I hope teachers will always maintain the spirit of learning, be proactive in technology and passionate about their profession. The school will continue to develop hobby clubs, increase reading activities and expand creative spaces for students to experiment with ideas. Every innovation of teachers is only truly meaningful when students progress, are confident and happy to come to school. That is what we aim for in all activities.

Thank you very much.

Source: https://giaoducthoidai.vn/doi-moi-sang-tao-tu-lop-hoc-de-nang-cao-chat-luong-giao-duc-post756086.html