Muslims. These schools are typically staffed by well-meaning and highly motivated volunteers
who are passionate about passing on Islamic knowledge. However, despite their good intentions,
these volunteers often face significant challenges that impede their effectiveness in the
classroom.
Firstly, many volunteer teachers lack a formal education in Islam. While they may have a strong
personal understanding of their faith, they often do not possess the in-depth knowledge required
to teach it comprehensively. This gap can lead to an incomplete or sometimes inaccurate
transmission of Islamic teachings to students.
Secondly, experience in teaching children and young adults is another critical area where many
volunteers fall short. Effective teaching requires more than just knowledge; it demands an
understanding of pedagogical methods and the ability to engage and manage a classroom of
young learners. Without this expertise, even the most knowledgeable volunteers can struggle to
maintain students’ interest and discipline.
Furthermore, the creation of clear lesson plans and the use of engaging resources and support
materials are essential components of successful teaching. Many volunteers are not trained in
these areas, leading to disorganized and less effective class sessions. Without structured lesson
plans, teachers may find it challenging to cover the curriculum adequately or to make the
material engaging and accessible to their students.
Lastly, as volunteers, some teachers may lack a proper commitment to the task. Issues such as
punctuality and insufficient class preparation can arise, stemming from the voluntary nature of
their roles. This lack of seriousness can undermine the learning experience and lead to
inconsistencies in students’ education.
To address these challenges, we invite you to join WISER (Weekend Islamic School Educators’
Resource) with a complimentary membership. WISER offers comprehensive teacher training
programs designed to equip volunteers with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to
excel. Our training covers formal Islamic education, pedagogical techniques, lesson planning,
and the use of engaging teaching materials. By joining WISER, you can make a meaningful
impact on the future of our community’s education.
Become a part of the solution—explore our teacher training programs and help us create a
brighter future for our young Muslims. Join WISER today! www.wiser-usa.org