From observation to professionalism

An academic seminar at Diyala University redefines practical education
The Faculty of Basic Education – History Department at the University of Diyala, in collaboration with the Continuing Education Division, a specialized seminar entitled “The Subject of Observation (Practical Education) and Its Importance in the Application of Fourth-Year Students,” as part of the college’s efforts to enhance the practical and applied aspects of student preparation programs and qualify them professionally and academically for the educational job market.
The seminar was held in the presence of a number of faculty members and with the wide participation of fourth-year students. The session was chaired by Assistant Professor Wijdan Jassim Mohammed, while Mr. Mahmoud Abdulrazzaq Jassim delivered the keynote lecture, addressing various topics related to the importance of observation in practical education, mechanisms for its implementation in schools, and its role in building the personality of student teachers and enhancing their professional competence.
The seminar aimed to highlight the educational and psychological dimensions of observation (practical education), raise students’ awareness of the importance of commitment to the practical aspect in secondary education institutions, and empower students with tools to interact with the school reality before graduation. It also aimed to link the theoretical aspect with the practical aspect in preparing effective teachers.
The seminar covered several topics, most notably: the concept of observation and its importance in developing teaching skills; the stages of preparation for observation and its impact on improving performance; the obstacles faced by students during the practical application period; and the role of teaching in supporting students applying within the school.
The seminar recommended the need to develop mechanisms for cooperation between the college and education directorates to facilitate the application process. It also recommended activating the role of the educational supervisor in guiding students during the observation period and preparing introductory training workshops for fourth-year students before they go to schools. In addition to adopting periodic evaluation reports to monitor the progress of students in the practical aspect.
This symposium is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations, in particular: Goal 4: Quality education, by improving the quality of teacher preparation and supporting practical and applied education. Goal 17: Partnerships for the goals, through cooperation between the college, academic departments, and the Continuing Education Division.
The college affirms its commitment to providing an integrated educational environment that combines theory and practice and contributes to the preparation of qualified educational cadres capable of serving the community and advancing the educational reality in Iraq.