Since arriving at AEE we have been giving the staff English lessons on a Friday morning. From the very beginning it was clear that they had very good English knowledge; what they lacked in was confidence and the ability to talk for an extended period of time.
As a team we decided that the best way to tackle this was to work with the staff on a one-to-one basis. Within which we would focus upon discussions, debates and public speaking. In order to help the staff to improve their ability to sustain an argument and a line of reasoning.
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| Vicky teaching Madame D |
The staff responded really well to this method of teaching, and really seemed to enjoy the sessions that we spent with them.
Innocent - "I appreciate your methodology."
Faustin - "I like the English conversation methodology"
Aimable - "I'm very interested in your teaching methodology."
This was so encouraging for us as well all really enjoyed teaching the staff. We got into some really meaty debates and had so much fun listening to each side of the argument. Some of our most successful debates were...
- Smacking as a discipline should be banned
- A women's role is at home/ the husband should bring in most of the money in the family
- Homosexual couples should be able to adopt
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| A selection of our debate topics |
The improvements in the staffs English communication skills were amazing and such a blessing to be a part of. After one lesson they held their weekly meeting in English. Where as they had previously relied on our team leader for translation. Also it is clear that their confidence levels have improved dramatically and they are no longer worried or embarrassed about making mistakes.
Aimable - "I have improved dramatically"
Innocent - "I can see improvement"
Madame D - "Discussion is my focus - it has helped us to be open"
The staff also asked us to help hem with their computer skills. To do this we created a number of step-by-step guides to popular computer programmes such as MS WORD, EXEL and POWERPOINT and gave a copy to each of the staff members.
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| Our step-by-step guides made by Rachel, Vicky and Claire |
We have a wonderful time teaching the staff and felt like it really helped us to forge our relationships with them.
"You have done many many things for us!!" - Madame D
