An International Workshop on
Communication Skills was conducted by
CACEE in association with the Dept. of English, Government College of
Teacher Education and the Institute of Distance Education, University of Kerala
at the University Student’s Centre, Trivandrum on 26 January 2013.
The session began at 10.00AM. with a
prayer sung by the BEd. trainees of Govt. CTE, Trivandrum. Then Dr. C. Praveen,
faculty of Govt.CTE. introduced the
organizers and the participants of the Workshop.
Dr.A. R. Supriya, the Director of CACEE
in her inaugural speech emphasized the
importance of learning English as a global language. She promised to offer all kinds of assistance and support in this regard from CACEE.
Prof. Kevin, a faculty from Canterbury
Christ Church University, United Kingdom
began an interactive session by dividing the adult learners of CACEE (of
the Communicative English Course) into four groups. He made use of different
strategies and techniques to involve
the learners and in making them use the
language. The session was an outstanding example of how adult learners should
be taught and handled.
After tea-break at 11.30 AM, Prof. Kevin interacted mainly with the
English Optional trainees of Govt. CTE. For
the trainees it was a special attraction. Speaking about the use of
technology, Prof Kevin opined that change and technological innovation are
inevitable even in so-called resource-scarce environments. He also spoke about
the scope and significance of
understanding digital literacy in a wider sense which has great importance in the existing teaching-learning processes. The
trainees were also reminded of the different
technological tools that can be
used: PowerPoint, YouTube, e-books, e-library, Wikis, Social networking sites,
video games. A mention was also made of ‘Turntin’, the plagiarism detection
software.
Next, followed a discussion on aspects of digital literacy in Kerala, the future of
using technology for teaching and learning in Kerala and the likely barriers.
Dr. Lal and Dr. C. Praveen joined the
discussion and offered their views and experience of using technology for language teaching in
Kerala.
A participant each from the CACEE
students and the BEd. trainees thanked
the faculty from UK and the organizers for providing them an
enriching experience.
Before a Group Photo
session, the trainees of Govt.
CTE, presented Prof. Kevin with a beautiful painting
as a token of their appreciation.
[Prepared by Rashid M.]
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