UEW Level 400 English Students Undergo Training in Innovative Teaching Methods
Level 400 students of the English Education programme at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), have recently participated in a transformative workshop aimed at enhancing their pedagogical skills with innovative teaching methods.
Held at the Faculty of Educational Studies, the event, themed "Thinking Outside the Box: Pedagogical Innovations in English Language Teaching," focused on equipping future educators with advanced strategies to engage students more effectively in senior high school English classrooms.
The workshop was led by Mrs. Bliss Acheampong, a lecturer at the Department of English Education at UEW, celebrated for her dynamic teaching style and dedication to educational excellence. Mrs. Acheampong delivered a compelling presentation that explored various facets of English language instruction, including grammar, comprehension, composition, and oral English.
Throughout the session, Mrs. Acheampong stressed the importance of creativity in teaching, urging students to adopt unconventional approaches that address diverse learning needs. "Effective teaching is not just about delivering content; it's about inspiring students to become active participants in their learning journey," she asserted, captivating attendees with her engaging and thought-provoking rhetoric.
Mrs. Acheampong also highlighted the necessity of continuous professional development for educators, emphasising lifelong learning as a crucial element in the teaching profession. "Incorporating innovative methods not only benefits our students but also enriches our teaching practices," she affirmed. Among the innovative solutions she proposed were integration of play into English lessons, resourcefulness in teaching materials, and thorough preparation.
Mr. Aikins Addae, the chairman of the seminar, praised Mrs. Acheampong's presentation, noting its strong alignment with Ghana's new curriculum, which emphasises social constructivism and playful learning. He underscored the critical role of the English language in Ghana's social and linguistic landscape, stating, "As educators, we are champions of the language. Let us teach English language with passion, not just to help learners pass exams but to appreciate its value for life."
The workshop featured interactive sessions where students practised innovative teaching techniques, including gamified learning, collaborative projects, and technology integration in the classroom. These hands-on activities provided practical experience in applying the concepts discussed, culminating in an open discussion where participants shared their experiences and challenges in teaching the English language. This collaborative environment fostered peer support and learning, further enhancing the students' confidence in their teaching abilities.
Participants left the workshop with a deeper understanding of innovative teaching methods and a renewed passion for English language education. The experience underscored the vital role those creative pedagogical strategies play in shaping the future of education in Ghana and beyond.
