"Human-Centric Approach to Technology" – teacher training initiative in Latvia

"Human-Centric Approach to Technology" is an initiative implemented by the non-governmental organization Riga TechGirls in cooperation with the IT Education Foundation and industry partners. It's goal is to provide free, practical, and easy-to-understand training for teachers, as well as professionals from other sectors (representatives of healthcare and creative industries), to strengthen their digital skills, expertise, and confidence.

The training content is developed based on international digital competence standards for educators and industry recommendations, combining the proficiency of education and IT sector professionals.

Main activities and results achieved

The initiative provides a comprehensive learning system that includes both a flexible self-learning process online and data-driven impact assessment.

A comprehensive curriculum has been developed across 5 thematic modules (29 lessons):

• Module 1: Digital literacy and cybersecurity (data processing, device security, information search).

• Module 2: Lesson preparation and educational content creation (AI assistants, Canva, PowerPoint lessons).

• Module 3: Digital tools for collaboration (Skolo.lv, Genially breakout rooms, gamification, and AI tools).

• Module 4: Digital tools for support and feedback (inclusive education, differentiation and personalization).

• Module 5: Design thinking and digital project work (design process, augmented reality in student projects).

Accessibility and integration into learning platforms: In cooperation with the Soma.lv platform, convenient access to video lectures and self-assessment tests is provided.

Professional development certification: Participants who successfully complete the program (achieving at least 70% on each module's test) can receive a certificate for 58 academic hours.

Assessment of educators' digital skills: Studies on the digital skills of Latvian educators were conducted before and after completing the training program to measure impact and continuously improve the content.

Program scaling to other sectors: Development and implementation of adapted training programs for healthcare professionals and representatives of creative industries.

Why is it a good practice?

The initiative "Human-Centric Approach to Technology" is an example of good practice due to the following factors:

• User-centered approach: The training content is neither overly complex nor strictly academic - technology is explained in an approachable, friendly manner, reducing teachers' anxiety and resistance toward adopting new tools.

• Practical and immediate applicability: Every lesson provides concrete tools and templates (e.g., Canva, Genially, Skolo.lv, AI assistants) that teachers can readily integrate into their daily routine.

• Flexible and accessible learning format: The program is 100% free and self-paced online, allowing each participant to learn at their convenience and suitable rhythm.

• Cross-sector collaboration: The program was created by combining the expertise of the NGO "Riga TechGirls," the educational foundation "IT Education Foundation," the educational publishing house "Lielvārds," and various technology companies.

• Data-driven continuous improvement: Targeted research and feedback collection ensure that the training content is regularly updated in line with real-world needs and technological advancements.

Official website and registration for the "Human-Centric Approach to Technology" training program.