Lina Mohammed Othman (pictured), Innovation and Creativity Teacher at QAM
Doha, Qatar: Qatar Academy Msheireb, part of Qatar Foundation’s Pre-University Education, continues to strengthen its innovation-driven approach to education by launching digital initiatives that support learning beyond the classroom.
The school has introduced two digital initiatives: the virtual library, ‘Digital Reading World,’ and the ‘Virtual Innovation and Fabrication Lab.’ These platforms are designed to offer interactive learning spaces that enable students to continue learning from home, while engaging with educational content in innovative ways that align with the demands of the digital age and support both their academic and personal development.
Commenting on the initiative, Manal Abdulaziz Ramadan, Librarian at QAM, said, “The virtual library is a comprehensive online platform that allows students to explore books and stories anytime, from anywhere. It enhances access to knowledge and encourages independent learning. This initiative was developed to ensure that reading remains a daily habit for students, even while learning from home.
“This initiative helps foster a strong reading culture among students by encouraging them to make reading part of their daily routine. It also provides access to a wide range of texts in both Arabic and English, supporting the development of their language skills and broadening their knowledge.”
Ramadan also noted that the school promotes community engagement around reading by encouraging students to share their reading moments at home through photos or videos. These contributions are shared within the school community to create an inspiring and interactive environment that motivates students to exchange experiences and ideas.
As part of its efforts to nurture innovation and creativity, the school also launched the “Virtual Innovation and Fabrication Lab,” an interactive digital space that allows students to explore areas such as design, programming, and digital creativity through a variety of tools and educational platforms, enhancing their ability to learn independently and think critically.
Lina Mohammed Othman, Innovation and Creativity Teacher at QAM, said, “The virtual lab was designed to bring the experience of design and innovation into students’ homes, enabling them to continue exploring and experimenting independently, while maintaining continuity of learning beyond the classroom and building confidence in turning their ideas into tangible projects.
“The lab offers a range of platforms and creative challenges that allow students to engage in activities such as programming, 3D design, and digital music production. These experiences help develop creative thinking and problem-solving skills, while strengthening their ability to innovate.
“The lab also gives students access to global cultural resources and virtual experiences, in addition to hands-on activities using simple materials available at home. This transforms learning into an interactive, exploration-based experience.”
Othman emphasised that these initiatives enhance learner independence and encourage students to pursue their interests and develop their ideas, in line with the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, which focuses on inquiry-based learning, creative thinking, and research skills, preparing students to engage with a rapidly changing world.
“Providing interactive learning environments beyond the classroom helps sustain student engagement and supports continuous learning.
“It also offers students greater opportunities to design, build, and experiment from home, fostering curiosity and discovery, while encouraging family collaboration.”
