Strategies for Shifting Teaching in UNRWA Schools in Palestine from Teacher-Centered to Student-Centered

This study explored the experiences of United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) school principals in the West Bank who participated in education reform (2011 - 2015). In response to the 2022 UNRWA Classroom Observation Study, this study examined strategies for shifting education teacher-centered to student-centered teaching methods using the descriptive qualitative methodology. The research interviewed fifteen principals with over five years of experience, and observed four classrooms. The findings highlighted the need for professional development, peer observations, monitoring, recourses, student support, teacher capacity building and accountability. Achieving a sustainable transition requires long-term stakeholder commitment. The researcher recommended further studies on long-term impacts and greater involvement of education specialists and area education officers for comprehensive reform.