Report on My Job Shadowing Experience in Siena, Italy FEDERIGO TOZZI School
October 7-11, 2024
Written by: Hanieh Rezaei
Introduction:
From October 7-11, 2024, I had the invaluable opportunity to engage in a job-shadowing experience as a mathematics and science teacher at FEDERIGO TOZZI primary and middle school in Siena, Italy. This educational exchange allowed me to witness innovative teaching practices, explore historical and cultural landmarks, and discover how education and culture intersect in everyday life in Tuscany. My report will cover three main aspects: my observations at the school, my cultural experiences in Siena, and my exploration of the cities of San Gimignano and Florence.
Part 1: School Observations
At Federico Tozzi School, I encountered a unique and progressive educational environment that impressed me in various ways. One of the most remarkable programs I observed was the Inclusion Initiative, a national plan that supports students with special educational needs (SEN) by integrating them into mainstream classrooms. The school’s commitment to inclusion was evident, with each SEN student receiving personalized assistance and modified materials according to their needs. Whether it was dyslexia, dysgraphia, or other learning disabilities, the teachers meticulously tailored their approach to ensure that all students could participate actively in lessons. One inspiring example was a science class on sound, where a teacher used music and volleyball to teach pitch and frequency to a dyslexic student, turning learning into a fun, multi-sensory experience.
Another class I observed combined technology, sustainability, engineering, and design in an interdisciplinary approach that fascinated both me and the students. The lesson began with a discussion on recycling plastic bottles, moved to a step-by-step design session in the laboratory, and ended with coding and 3D design activities on computers. The 170-minute session kept the students thoroughly engaged, thanks to its hands-on approach and integration of technology. This well-rounded and practical approach to learning showed how schools can foster creativity and innovation while emphasizing real-world problems like sustainability.
The use of technology was also noteworthy. While students were required to store their cellphones away upon entering the building, tablets and computers were made readily available for academic purposes. Each classroom was equipped with the necessary furniture and infrastructure to facilitate this, and I was impressed by the seamless integration of digital tools into everyday teaching.
In conclusion, the teachers at Federico Tozzi School were well-prepared, enthusiastic, and skilled at maintaining a high level of student interest, even in long class periods. The school’s physical environment, with large windows and views of green spaces, created a welcoming and inspiring atmosphere for learning.
Part 2: Cultural and Historical Experiences in Siena
During my stay in Siena, I had the chance to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage. One of the highlights was a guided tour of the Santa Maria della Scala Museum, which once served as a hospital and stood as a testament to Siena’s civic responsibility towards caring for the poor, sick, and abandoned children.
Another memorable cultural activity was our visit to the Accademia Musicale Chigiana, an internationally renowned music institute. The institute offers masterclasses in various musical disciplines, and it was fascinating to learn about its history and the role it continues to play in nurturing musical talent. One standout piece in the collection was a C. Bechstein piano, gifted by Hungarian composer Franz Liszt in 1860, adding a personal connection for me as a teacher working in an international environment.
We also had the chance to savor Siena’s culinary specialties during a visit to an old bakery, where I learned about the city’s traditional sweets and baked goods. Experiencing Siena’s vibrant culture through its food, music, and history enriched my overall understanding of this incredible city.
Part 3: Exploring San Gimignano and Florence
The final days of my trip were dedicated to exploring the stunning Tuscan countryside and two of Italy’s most historically significant cities: San Gimignano and Florence.
San Gimignano, an iconic medieval hill town in Tuscany, was a remarkable experience. Encircled by 13th-century walls and filled with medieval architecture, its towers stood as enduring symbols of the town’s rich history. Climbing the Torre Grossa and taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding fields was one of the highlights of my time in Tuscany.
Our trip concluded with a visit to Florence, the capital of Tuscany and a city renowned for its Renaissance art and architecture. The grandeur of Brunelleschi’s Dome and Giotto’s Bell Tower left me in awe, while my visit to the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo’s “David” was an unforgettable experience. I also had the chance to explore the Galileo Museum, where I learned about the pioneering work of scientists whose contributions paved the way for modern discoveries.
Conclusion:
This job-shadowing experience in Siena provided me with invaluable insights into both education and culture. From observing inclusive and technologically advanced teaching methods at Federico Tozzi School to exploring the rich cultural and historical legacy of Siena, San Gimignano, and Florence, I return with new knowledge, inspiration, and a broader perspective.
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Dr. President MirzaHosseini, Dr. Arash MirzaHosseini, our respected principal Mr. Steve, and Ms. Andrea for their support in making this incredible opportunity possible.
Written by: Hanieh Rezaei
Mathematics and Physics Teacher
Avicenna International College, Budapest
13. Oct. 2024