More in Sofia

We have had lots of lectures on different topics while in Sofia. Many touch on the history, politics, economics and are about both old and modern Bulgaria. The Bulgarian people are very proud of their heritage and are at least as proud of their country as we are of the USA. We have also learned some about the educational system of Bulgaria. They have just introduced a new exit test for secondary schools and are having many of the same problems we have in the U.S. Their biggest area of deficit on the test was in Bulgarian literature and writing. The educational expert who spoke to us felt that the system in the past has relied on memorization of facts for test recall and little emphasis on analytical thinking and writing.

These ideas were supported when we visited the First English Language School in Sofia. This school is one that teaches English as a Foreign Language and most of the school subjects are actually taught in English so students have practical use of the language.
This is one of the top schools in Sofia and we found it to be lacking many of the basic items we take for granted in the United States. The teachers there were very interested in our textbooks, teaching methods, etc. We had a panel discussion there. They seem to know little about student engagement and have a totally different perspective on what teaching is. They are far behind us in teaching strategies.

After a wonderful lunch of duck, we headed for the American College of Sofia. This is an exclusive school for grades 8-12 that teaches mostly in English to help prepare students for University and a career. This school was better off money-wise and they had much more knowledge of current pedagogical strategies than the teachers at the other school. They understood the importance of critical thinking and of student engagement and group work. The teachers at this school get lots of training on current teaching strategies through workshops and conferences. Even so, the school facilities are nothing near what we have in most places in the States. It was a very enlightening visit! We then had a cookout hosted by the American College. Here is Bob Antonucci talking with one of the Bulgarian teachers from the school. It was a very informative day!