Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) sent two professors from the Department of Language, Literature, and Arts (DLLA) to attend a five-day teachers’ training workshop for English Language teachers from universities in Mindanao which was held in Manila from 15-19 May 2023.
The workshop was organized by the Regional English Language Office of the U.S. Embassy in Manila, with the program administration provided by the Synergeia Foundation, Inc. This partnership aimed to provide a platform for professional development and refreshment for English language teachers, particularly after the challenges faced during the pandemic.
The workshop, featuring English language specialists Dr. Donna Brinton and Dr. Jan Frodesen from the U.S. Department of State, showcased their expertise and contributions to the field. Their presence added immense value to the training, as they shared their knowledge and insights on innovative teaching methodologies, effective classroom management techniques, assessment strategies, and the integration of technology in language instruction. The training workshop proved to be highly beneficial for the participants. While some of the strategies taught during the workshop were not entirely new to the attendees, they found the overall experience to be invigorating and inspiring.
Furthermore, the workshop was honored by a visit from the U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, Ambassador MaryKay Carlson highlighting the importance of the event and the commitment of the U.S. Embassy to support English language education in Mindanao.
The partnership between the U.S. Embassy’s Regional English Language Office headed by Dr. Carleen Velez, the Synergeia Foundation, Inc. led by Vice-Chairman Antonio Torralba, and the contributions of esteemed English language specialists Donna Brinton and Jan Frodesen underscored their dedication to supporting professional development among English language teachers in Mindanao. The collaboration provided a valuable platform for networking, sharing best practices, and fostering a sense of community among English language teachers in the region.
Ms. Josyl Hey Aquilam, a Doctor of Philosophy in Education major in Applied Linguistics, and Ms. Shiela Java Guinal, a candidate for Doctor of Philosophy in Language and Literature, said that the workshop created a sense of camaraderie and a “homey” atmosphere among the participants, as they were all English language teachers from Mindanao. This shared background facilitated a supportive and collaborative learning environment, allowing for the exchange of ideas and experiences among them. Overall, it proved to be a refreshing and impactful experience as it enabled the participants to enhance their teaching skills, expand their knowledge base, and revitalize their enthusiasm for English language instruction.
Article and Photos by Dr. Josyl Hey Aquilam