Empowering Educators: LNU-LLU spearheads Seminar-Workshop on English Language and Literature Teaching and Assessment

by Rogie Beringuel 

In a dynamic stride towards educational excellence, a recent two-day seminar-workshop unfolded on November 24-25, 2023 at the Leyte Normal University, focusing on the contemporary teaching methodologies and assessment practices in the different learning competencies of English language and literature.

Educators from the various elementary and secondary as well as higher education institutions (HEIs) in the region, gathered to explore cutting-edge methodologies, fostering a collaborative space for professional growth.

As part of their month-long celebration of the English month, delegates from the Abuyog Community College were Mrs. Annabelle Dela Rama, coordinator of ACC- Language and Literature Unit, Mr. Alvin Advincula, English Guild adviser together with Dennis Echavez, president, League of Teacher-Education Students (LOTES) and Rogie Beringuel, president of English Guild.

Spearheaded by the faculty of BSEd-English and BA English Language of Leyte Normal University the seminar-workshop dubbed as English Language and Literature Teaching and Assessment (ELLTA) in the 21st Century with Matatag K to 10 Curriculum Updates, themed, “Perspectives and Practices in Contemporary English Language and Literature Teaching”.

The two-day activity aimed at (re) training the participants with new innovative, and critical ways of teaching and assessing competencies in English language and literature in a dynamic classroom environment responsive to the 21st century interdisciplinary learning needs; create an avenue where they can reflect on their past and present teaching experiences while examining the relevant trends and crucial issues in ELLTA as they get in touch with the experts in the field and interact with their fellow educators; and update them with upcoming curriculum reform- the MATATAG K TO 10.

Formally welcoming the participants was University President of LNU, Dr. Evelyn B. Aguirre emphasized that effective 21st century English teacher must possess the characteristics such as an adaptor, a visionary, a collaborator, a risk-taker, a learner a communicator and a model.

Plenary speakers were Dr. Mardy Verano, Executive Director of Edustudio Learning Review and Training Services, Dr. Angelo Lenard Yu, Assistant Professor 3 at the University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP) Davao City, and Prof. Robertgie Piañar, Assistant Professor 1 of Leyte Normal University who delved into modern teaching strategies, emphasizing interactive approaches to engage students in the intricacies of language and literature.

In her talk, Dr. Mardy Verano shed light on how educators can create a dynamic and effective learning experiences that support diverse learners in the ever-shifting terrain of English language education.

Moreover, Dr. Angelo Lenard Yu centered his talk on the teaching of indigenous knowledge through literature. ” The collection, evaluation, interpretation and analysis of this indigenous literature should be done before they disappear forever. ” Dr. Yu emphasized.

Third plenary speaker, Prof. Robertgie Piañar reflected on the critical curricular agend, his three-part talk walked the participants through the features, frameworks and focus of the MATATAG K TO 10 Curriculum, with special attention to English language and literature competencies.

Spotlighting innovative assessment techniques, aligning with evolving educational landscapes in the language and literature streams was conducted on its second day through its parallel workshop facilitated by the expert faculty of the LNU-Language and Literature Unit.

In conclusion, participants expressed enthusiasm about incorporating newfound knowledge into their classrooms, envisioning an enriched learning experience for students during the sharing of takeaways and ways forward segment of the closing ceremony .

This event stands as a beacon for the ongoing evolution of English language and literature education, reinforcing the commitment to nurturing a generation of proficient communicators and critical thinkers.