In the middle of October 2007, 63 primary level English 'asesores'(advisor-trainers)and secondary English teachers from the state of Guanajuato gathered together for a workshop on techniques in learner-centered instruction. Organized by Guanajauto SEG coordinator Mario Montero, the first group met for 18 hours from Oct. 15-17th at the Centro de Capacitacion (CENCAP) in Acambaro, Guanajuato.
The second group met from Oct. 18-19th for 8 hours in Leon.
In addition to learning how to structure cooperative classroom routines and apply multiple intelligence theory to class room activities, participants showed great warmth and community spirit by participating in bonfire sing-alongs and endlessly telling jokes. Ever creative and enthusiastic, the group made wonderful group chants and stories.
Results from the original workshop evaluation indicate that they preferred learning new activities that can be applied directly to the classroom. They said they will apply Multiple Intelligences and Cooperative Learning in their own classes and they'd like to learn more about Bloom's Taxonomy and Multiple Intelligences.
Many of the asesores said they would replicate some of the ideas from the workshop in their own training sessions. (Please let me know if you have! Click here to fill out the workshop follow-up survey. This information will guide me in creating more useful workshops.)
I will always remember the great time I had with you in Acambaro. Teachers like you are the reason I love teaching! Thanks to all of you and to Mario, a really motivating coordinator!
