Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, Mar 28: Three-day International Training Workshop on ‘Pedagogical and Method-ological Issues in Early Childhood’ was organized for the teachers and parents of The Pathways International School, here.
Renowned educationists Mr James and Mrs. Mary from USA were the resource persons for the Training Programme.
The objective of this workshop was to introduce the best practices and ideas for creating rich and meaningful early learning experiences for every child and facilitate in their holistic development.
During the workshop, Mr. James and Ms. Mary elaborated upon the need for setting children on a positive learning trajectory and expanded upon the critical information needed by early childhood educators to be able to support children’s development. The trainers emphasized upon the importance of building the foundations in the early years. Highlighting the relevance of Montessori method education, the trainers detailed the various methodologies, processes and tools that must be used by the participants to foster the growth of functional independence, task persistence and self-regulation in students. The trainers familiarised the audience with the Montessori method and explained how self-directed activity, hands-on learning and collaborative play can act as a support system for children to make creative choices in their learning.
Across the three days, the key competencies needed to effectively handle the varying needs of children in a classroom set-up, appropriate use of language, handling children issues, enhancing social interaction, building confidence and many other aspects were also addressed. The trainers insisted the teachers and parents to promote experiential learning amongst the children to promote a deeper understanding of language, mathematics, science, music and much more and deliberated upon responding to the natural curiosities of children and building a strong foundation for life-long learning.
Describing the five areas of pedagogy as communication, engagement, questioning and discussion, feedback, and differentiation, the trainers illustrated the importance of having pedagogy as a thoughtful and intentional measure in creating an environment that supports the development of secure emotional foundations for young children.
Special interactive sessions were also conducted for the parents also.