ABOUT US
How We Got Started
Marilynn Clark, Founder of Inside Out Learning (IOL), traveled to Kenya as part of a humanitarian group in February 2001. She was alarmed by the poverty and troubled that a country with abundant natural resources and an educated population was so devastated due to unemployment and negative social problems.
The Problem
The next six years of research and several investigative trips to Kenya uncovered a root cause of the problems. The lecture/rote method of teaching initiated by years of British rule had stifled creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. The teachers were spending more hours with students memorizing facts to pass national exams. Students were educated but not prepared to invigorate the economy with innovative ideas and create new businesses.
Addressing the Problem
Marilynn, Dana Israelsen, Brenda Carlos and a group of highly respected educators put their heads together and created the IOL methodology. This methodology was designed to stand the test of time. It is easy to understand, yet, provides very basic learning skills that are critical for lifelong success.
What We Do Today
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IOL Methodology
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Proper Learning Environment
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Multiple Intelligences
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Strength in Education
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Inquiry-Based Learning
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Critical Thinking (Analytical, Communication, Creativity, Open-Minded Thinking, Problem Solving skills)
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Collaboration
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Character Education
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A group of 5-6 volunteers are chosen and trained in the IOL methodology. At their own expense, the volunteers travel to the designated country, along with two experienced IOL team leaders, to facilitate in the training of a group of 50-60 teachers for a four-day training seminar.
Prior to the trip, facilitators are trained to teach their assigned topic by sharing knowledge, promoting discussion, and leading activities. Much of the training is done in small groups and each facilitator acts as a mentor to one group. The trainings are interactive and fun. At the end of the training session, the teachers receive a Certificate of Achievement. These certificates provide status and credibility for teachers for their careers. Teachers also receive some teaching supplies and a Teacher’s Resource Guide for their personal use to refresh and supplement their learning.
Post-training, the teachers receive follow-up visits from our in-country staff and/or a volunteer group. These visits further connect teachers with the methodology and provides additional training and resources. At the end of three months, the teachers are given a post-assessment. This post-assessment enables IOL to collect data and determine the effectiveness of their training.
