Page 67 - Young Wise

Zehra TAMER GOOD EXAMPLES IN EDUCATION

Nebahat ÇANKIRLI

Nebahat Çankırlı is an English teacher at Gülüç İbrahim İzmirli Anatolian High School
in Ereğli, Zonguldak. She’s specialised in international projects and innovative
educational practices. Let’s get to know her better.

What inspired you to become a teacher, and what keeps you How do you integrate creativity, critical thinking, or new
motivated after all these years? technologies into your lessons?
My decision to become a teacher I integrate creativity and critical thinking through project-based
comes from my strong belief in the learning, debates, Model United Nations activities, digital
power of education. From an early age, storytelling, and interdisciplinary projects. Technology plays
I experienced how a teacher’s words an important role in my classroom, but always as a tool—not
could change a student’s confidence an objective in itself. By using digital platforms, AI-supported
and way of thinking. I believe teaching research tools, and collaborative technologies, I encourage
is not only about sharing knowledge students to question, analyse, and create.
but also about inspiring students and
helping them believe in themselves.
What motivates me most is my
students, because each one brings a
unique story and potential into the
classroom.
Can you mention your national and international projects?

What advice would you give to students who want to reach
their full potential?
I would advise students to trust their own journey and stop
comparing themselves to others. Growth takes time, and mistakes
are an essential part of learning. Curiosity, consistency, and courage
are key elements of success. I encourage students to dream boldly
but work patiently. Reaching one’s full potential is not about
perfection, but about persistence and self-belief.

Throughout my career, I have actively participated in numerous
national and international projects, particularly under the Erasmus+
Programme. These include KA122 Staff Mobility, KA210, and KA220
cooperation partnerships, focusing on key areas such as digital
literacy, sustainability, gender equality, women’s empowerment,
cybersecurity, environmental awareness, and inclusive education.
Working with international partners—schools, NGOs, youth
organisations, and AI-based companies—has broadened my
professional vision and enriched my students’ learning experiences.
At the national level, I have also contributed to innovative
educational initiatives aligned with the vision of the Turkish “Education is not about filling minds, but about
Ministry of National Education. These projects have reinforced my lighting hearts. As long as I can inspire even one
belief that education becomes truly powerful when it connects student to believe in themselves and in a better
people across cultures and borders. world, my purpose as a teacher is fulfilled.”

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