FETJ-Shizuoka Chapter conducted its 1st Advanced Teacher Training (ATT) last February 28 and March 1, 2015. The two-day training aims to enhance knowledge and build a harmonious relationship among the Filipino English Teachers in Japan.
The event started with the registration of the participants from different parts of Shizuoka at about 9:00 AM. Then at 9:45 Mrs. Joji Ueda, the FETJ President of Shizouka, formally opened the seminar. This was followed by the opening prayer led by Ms. Lorina Baltazar and the introduction of the speaker by the Shizuoka President herself. The speaker is no other than the vibrant and the epitome of a passionate educator, the FETJ National President, Mrs. Sampaguita Salazar.
The discussant, Mrs. Salazar, talked about the different challenges the teachers face in the teaching and learning process. She also emphasized the use of English the ESA ( Engage, Study and Activate) Way in conducting classes. Likewise, she talked about Eikawa, Pronunciation and Phonology. Furthermore, she stressed on the intrinsic and extrinsic factors affecting motivation.
In the Training, the participants eagerly listened to Mrs. Salazar as she discusses topics and gives instructions about the different activities. They were so motivated that they all engaged themselves in the different games and activities that she prepared for them.
In the course of her discussion, the speaker mentioned that learning to be effective should be interactive. In addition, she explained the role of a teacher. To quote her, she said that, " To be effective teacher you should have an overflowing knowledge. You have to learn more to have enough." Understanding the nature of the learner is also one of the best topics she discussed. She said that teachers should always focus on the learner.
After the discussion of concepts, the participants were asked to join the games and dialogues. Towards the last session, they were grouped for the lesson presentation. They were asked to prepare a lesson about the topic assigned to them using the different teaching styles and techniques she has introduced to them.
In the preparation, everyone in the group shared her ideas about the topic during the brainstorming. In the presentation, each one performed with zest and passion. The exciting part was, the group that gets the most number of smiley wins. So everyone really tried her best to give justice to the role assigned to her. Indeed, one of the highlights of the ATT is the presentation part of the participants.
After the presentation, the winners were announced. This was followed by the awarding of token of appreciation to the speaker, the awarding of certificates to the participants and the awarding of prizes to the winners of group presentation. There are smiles on the faces of the FETJians as they receive their certificates and prizes.
The Seminar ended with the group picture taking. Truly, the 1st Advanced Teacher Training in FETJ- Shizuoka was a success.
