Gateshead College in Durham is a well-known
centre for the teaching of English to speakers of other languages.
Grace recalled her immersion experience at Gateshead College
as one full of inspiration for her future teaching career.
"This was an eye-opening experience. The lecturer was
highly devoted. He turned a silent class of students from
various nations to one full of joy in learning. The key rests
in class size as each class had less than ten students. Small
group discussion was further assisted by tutors, and each
student got 100 percent attention!"
Grace and her fellow students practised as tutors in student
discussions and working groups. "The lecturers at Gateshead
College are exemplary models of effective teaching. They use
vivid and lively examples to stimulate students to speak and
share freely on topics such as pop culture and national customs.
They support the students with positive and encouraging words.
This works well in building confidence and motivating student
interest in learning!"
"As teachers, our responsibility rests not only in conveying
knowledge. The teacher should create a two way communication
process, as facilitator and motivator encouraging students
to take an active part in learning rather than enforcing it,"
Grace said |