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https://qlu-pa.zoom.us/rec/share/oRVSWZPxLZBVEIT7aihTdLJTxyTCJMX5NIlMNp1sspLCqOJzTCO-tfI8pEmOYUWz.yQvzxgMydbGFMpol
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Social and emotional literacy to surf the waves of change: learner agency at the core of our teaching by Monica Rodriguez Salvo

Abstract: Pandemic times have taught us the importance of student centricity in our teaching processes. During this session we will talk about emotional literacy as a pivotal factor in the education we want to create for the future. We will explore the integrative nature of emotion and cognition through practical activities that can be included right away in our sessions. We will focus on how to hone emotional security in our classes so as to create an environment conducive to better learning, and through a reflection circle we will also build hands-on ideas for immediate implementation in the classroom.

Bio: Monica is a graduate teacher of English and a Sworn Public translator. She holds a postgraduate degree in Human Resources Management by Universidad de Belgrano and is certified and accredited Neurolanguage.  Coach Monica is also a Mindfulness practitioner graduated from University of California (UCLA) and holds a diploma in Social and Emotional Learning from San Diego University.  She currently runs her own Educational Institution, InspirED Consultora Educativa, reaching out to hundreds of students and teachers around the world.As an international speaker,  She has presented extensively in Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Colombia, Brazil, IATEFL UK, Peru, Germany, TESOL France, TESOL Spain, ASCD United States  with plenary, semi plenary and workshop sessions. She has authored 3 Social and Emotional Learning sections and activities for different levels and books. She is a guest Professor at Universidad de San Andrés, Argentina. 

Lifelong Learning Skills in the 21ST Century Classroom by Hind Elyas

Abstract: The goal of this session is to explore 21st century skills that should be used in the classroom. The presenter will give an overview of the 6Cs of 21st Century learning and provide examples of different 21st century strategies that should be used in today’s classroom to help learners achieve the best possible outcomes.

Session Type: Talk / lecture

Audience Focus: Higher education, College-level high-school, Middle school, Elementary, PK

Bio: Hind Elyas is an English Instructor at the Leading National Academy in Saudi Arabia. She has a breadth of experience as a trainer, and her current roles include the IATEFL Global Issue, Issues Month Coordinator, the Chair of the TESOL International Professional Development Professional Council, and a member of the TESOL International Womentorship in ELT committee. She is also serving as a TESOL International New Member Guide. Hind is a British Council ELTon Awards Judge, and she served as a National Geographic Advisor in 2020. Hind is a founding member of the English Language Testing Society, and her main areas of interest include testing, curriculum development, and student engagement.Her most recent achievements were being selected as a TESOL International 2021 Leadership Mentoring Program Award recipient and a TESOL International Convention Ambassador.

Eccentric ways to teach (foreign languages) by Richard Palmer 

Abstract: As we grapple with learning and motivation loss by teachers and students. There are strategies to overcome this- keeping learners motivated while progressing. A compilation of eccentric tips and tricks to make teaching and learning more pleasant, engaging but especially eccentric will be provided; to update your pedagogical toolkit for 21st century learning-leaving you equipped to make your teaching memorable!

Session Type: Workshop / Demonstration

Audience Focus: Higher education, College-level high-school

Bio: A passionate Modern Languages Educator with a penchant for teaching and volunteerism. Richard hails from the island of Jamaica but currently lives and works in France. He holds a B.Ed. in French and Spanish (Secondary) Education and a Master of Art in Language Didactics, Literatures and Cultures. He is CELTA trained and enjoys working on foreign language promotion through his Language Accelerator program. He is zealous about helping learners (of all ages) ace their language progression through providing eccentric strategies. He currently speaks 4 languages and is learning 2. 

Developing meaningful learning through digital platforms by Ramiro Lopez 

Abstract: A lot of technology applications had been used in the teaching and learning process as a medium in the Covid-19 pandemic era to make the learning process easier. A digital learning platform allows access to resources. Each platform is structured to organize information in a way that makes it easily accessible to all users. The learning material can be in the form of courses, multimedia content, and evaluations. All students can access the information anytime and anywhere with the help of the Internet. We learned that technology plays an extremely important role in education. In this sense, as teachers of the 21st century, we must implement the use of digital tools that help us to develop language learning meaningfully.

Session Type: Talk / lecture, Workshop / Demonstration

Audience Focus: Higher education, College-level high-school, Middle school, Elementary, PK

Bio: Ramiro Lopez Ríos, Ph.D., was born and raised in Panama where he obtained a BA’s in English (2003) from Universidad de Panama. Dr. Lopez received his doctorate in Curriculum from Universidad de Panama. He is the curriculum designer for the Literature undergraduate program at UDI and also an elementary school teacher at American International School. Curricular content creator, and English Language Specialist for TOEFL-ETS certifications. In his 17 years as an educator, Dr. Lopez has been privileged to work with students and teachers in a variety of K-12 settings.  He has worked as a classroom teacher, Title 1 Reading Teacher, ELA Specialist/Coach, and Literacy Coordinator.  Currently, Dr. Lopez teaches and learns with exceptional second-grade students and colleagues at CIS.  His goal is to create academically engaging learning experiences through an environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, and kindness.  Committed to sharing his passion for literacy and learning, he also teaches courses in Literacy to prospective educators about how to use Digital Resources and platforms to support students learning in the 21st century. 

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https://qlu-pa.zoom.us/rec/share/jPzQDAgjKKvF2EyD47yyP6g5iYiTO1Z1w45RORcaCRubGxUNX3sWXy1bbhifJP4W.682bu35frRxnHuiw
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Mentorship for English language teachers in Panama by Isabel Cubilla

Abstract: Do English language teachers need a mentor? Mentorship has an essential role in education. Most ESL/EFL teachers in Panama need more guidance to be most effective. The primary purpose of this talk is to foster the importance of building a mentorship community in every school and explore its benefits.

Session Type: Talk / lecture

Audience Focus: Higher education, College-level high-school, Middle school, Elementary, PK

Bio: Isabel Cubilla is an educator with over 25 years of teaching the English language in Panama and has a Master’s Degree in Language Teaching Methodology. She was in charge of the Panama Bilingue, Kids program (2015-2019). She actively participates in different Professional Development activities as an organizer, presenter, and mentor. She is an active local and international TESOL member. Currently, she works as a Coordinator and professor for a private university.

Incorporating Integrated Performance Assessment to Boost Real Communication by Lorena Ojeda

Abstract: In this session, teachers will explore a novel approach to assessment that proposes 3 integrated modes of communication that allow teachers to assess students’ performance in real-life situations clearly. By diving deeper into the theoretical aspects of activity- design and rubric creation, it is expected for teachers have the tools to incorporate the assessment approach into their classes.

Audience Focus: Higher education, Middle school, Elementary

Bio: Lorena Ojeda holds a bachelor’s in English Teaching and another in English with a major in Literature and Linguistics. She holds a TESOL certificate. She has worked as an ESL teacher in the USA. She is the Director of Sales at the US-based editorial, Our Storyscape by Voces Digital.Lorena Ojeda holds a bachelor’s in English Teaching and another in English with a major in Literature and Linguistics. She holds a TESOL certificate. She has worked as an ESL teacher in the USA. She is the Director of Sales at the US-based editorial, Our Storyscape by Voces Digital.

Unjudge: Creating a Platform for Diversity and Inclusion in Schools by Debbie Psychoyos

Abstract: In an effort to bridge gaps of inequity and nurture classrooms of care and inclusion, we draw upon the innovative platform of the Human Library. A concept that invites all of us to create a narrative that tells our personal story in an effort to be understood and to understand. Join us in this interactive workshop to discover the elements and impact of this authentic technology for a sustainable humanity.Have you presented this topic before: no

Session Type: Workshop / Demonstration

Audience Focus: Higher education, College-level high-school, Middle school, Elementary, PK, Other, please specify, Educators, coaches, mentors at all levels

Bio: An educator for 4 decades, Debbie is committed to life-long learning. She is the Founder and CEO of The ProEd Foundation in Panama, a nonprofit, NGO, recognized by UNESCO with the Hamdan Award, for Outstanding Performance in Enhancing the Effectiveness of Teachers. Debbie holds a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, and earned a teaching certificate in Higher Education Pedagogy from the Bok Center of Teaching & Learning at Harvard University.

To watch the recording, click here! Passcode: ZI.8cD*+

https://qlu-pa.zoom.us/rec/share/DBDnLYMGfMEgIi0oNRdv3pTAb-4XHw0quJbsXaXCeCyL9gdzuOFJDVgwAOaIta3Q.C4BgOwOZKuzpOfEC
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Exploring PICRAT Model for Technology Integration in EFL classes by Mauren Guevara Garcia

Abstract: What is effective technology integration? In this presentation, we’ll explore how to implement the PICRAT model so that we can explore how to integrate technology in our classes in an effective and simple way.

Session Type: Talk / lecture, Workshop / Demonstration

Audience Focus: Higher education, College-level high-school, Middle school, Elementary

Bio: Mauren Guevara García loves teaching and learning about different areas. This is why she holds master degrees in Teaching English, Project Management, and Business Administration. She is currently studying a Master in Technology and Innovation. She also has a Scrum Master certification. Regarding today’s topic, Mauren has a postgraduate degree in Virtual Learning Environments, and specializations in Virtual Tutoring, Production of Educational Resources for Virtual Learning Environments, and Higher Education Management and Leadership. She has 17 years of experience in higher education, and currently works at Universidad Técnica Nacional, Costa Rica.   For Mauren, this activity is a great opportunity to share and learn from each other’s experiences and best practices!

ABC Project: A Cross-Cultural Reflective Project by Dr.  Juan Ríos Vega 

Abstract: In this session, the presenter will share how as part of an English as Second Language (ESL) endorsement program, teacher candidates develop a cross-cultural case study entitled Autobiography, Biography, Cross-Cultural (ABC) project. Based on interviews, observations, and interactions, student teachers present their projects as part of their end-of-the-semester requirements. Attendees will be able to understand how multilingual learners’ funds of knowledge and lived experiences can become assets in the classroom. Additionally, they will learn how to become advocates for their students and families.

Session Type: Talk / lecture

Audience Focus: Higher education, College-level high-school, Middle school, Elementary, PK

Bio:   Dr. Ríos earned a Master’s of education in Curriculum and Teaching with Emphasis in English as a Second Language (ESL) from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (2006); received National Board Certification in English as a New Language/Early Adolescence through Young Adulthood in 2009; received his doctorate in Philosophy in Educational Studies, Cultural Studies Concentration from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (2014), Women’s and Gender Studies Certificate and North Carolina Principal License (2014). His areas of research include: English Language Acquisition, Multicultural Education, Critical Race Theory, Latino/a Critical Theory, and Social Justice in Education. In 2015, he published his first book Counterstorytelling Narratives of Latino Teenage Boys: From Vergüenza to Échale Ganas. In 2020, Dr. Ríos published High School Latinx Counternarratives: Experiences in School and Post-graduation. This book was selected as one of the 2021 Critics Choice Awards Books by the American Educational Studies Association (AESA). Currently, Dr. Ríos is an Associate Professor in the Department of Education, Leadership, and Counseling at Bradley University.

Storytelling as Culturally Responsive Strategy to enhance Language Development by Dr.  Juan Rios Vega

Abstract: In this session, the participants will learn how using storytelling as part of a culturally responsive strategy can allow multilingual learners to be able to develop their English language. Using students’ funds of knowledge as an asset in the classroom, the attendees will be better equipped to critically understand how the use of personal narratives and testimonials can be used as springboards to support language development while validating students’ cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Session Type: Workshop / Demonstration

Audience Focus: Higher education, College-level high-school, Middle school

Bio:   Dr. Ríos earned a Master’s of education in Curriculum and Teaching with Emphasis in English as a Second Language (ESL) from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (2006); received National Board Certification in English as a New Language/Early Adolescence through Young Adulthood in 2009; received his doctorate in Philosophy in Educational Studies, Cultural Studies Concentration from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (2014), Women’s and Gender Studies Certificate and North Carolina Principal License (2014). His areas of research include: English Language Acquisition, Multicultural Education, Critical Race Theory, Latino/a Critical Theory, and Social Justice in Education. In 2015, he published his first book Counterstorytelling Narratives of Latino Teenage Boys: From Vergüenza to Échale Ganas. In 2020, Dr. Ríos published High School Latinx Counternarratives: Experiences in School and Post-graduation. This book was selected as one of the 2021 Critics Choice Awards Books by the American Educational Studies Association (AESA). Currently, Dr. Ríos is an Associate Professor in the Department of Education, Leadership, and Counseling at Bradley University.

Integrating Online/Blended Technology Resources In English Teaching By Joel Alvarez.

Abstract: During the session on the Use of Technological Resources in Teaching English, the participants will develop various practical activities related to ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) that they can implement in their educational contexts. On the other hand, there has been an expectation that teachers have the necessary skills and abilities to renew teaching processes through the appropriation of ICTs; Specifically, English teachers must be able to integrate web-based resources and specialized materials to enrich and expand students’ language experiences. 

Bio:   Joel Alvarez  MA- MBA 

Joel has presented and participated in various teacher-training programs in Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Peru, Colombia, Canada, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Philippines, Puerto Rico, and The United States. He was the Panama TESOL President and the Central American and Caribbean TESOL group coordinator. He was the program manager for the Teaching English and Leadership Program at US Peace Corps. He is currently an English professor at the University of Panama.

To access the evaluation and reflection, click here!

Watch the recording here!

https://qlu-pa.zoom.us/rec/share/peZ8ssPmfPdOFj6vJvLIrAoGNxiROaYEqpaUorWa1yGlvocxcPCdwoZwPvWNN046.7pmEpY6mZeOOrHBx
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Child-friendly activities for learning vocabulary by Dora Karina Marona Mamani

Abstract: Teaching English to children poses some unique challenges, but it is also fun and very rewarding. In this workshop, the presenter will demonstrate how to give students different opportunities to learn and practice vocabulary in engaging and enjoyable ways. Participants will try activities, and simple online tools to introduce, support word learning, review, and play with language in synchronous classes.

Session Type: Workshop / Demonstration

Audience Focus: Elementary

Bio: Ms. Marona graduated from Jorge Basadre Grohmann University as a Foreign Language Teacher. She holds a TESOL diploma from La Salle University, a TEFL diploma from Via Lingua Peru – Costa Rica and also the FCE and TKT certificates from the University of Cambridge. She has presented workshops for Peru TESOL, BETA TESOL Bolivia and TESOL Colombia. Currently, she works at Cristo Rey Jesuit School in Tacna, Peru.

Designing engaging lessons from an instructional design perspective by Meindert Montenegro Maltez

Abstract: The following presentation aims to provide instructors with different instructional design approaches for teaching in virtual settings by putting into practice Gagne’s 9 events of learning and the ARCS motivational model in order to create meaningful classes.

Session Type: Forum including Q&As, Talk / lecture

Audience Focus: Higher education, College-level high-school, Middle school

Bio: Meindert Montenegro, currently taking a Master on Teaching and Curriculum, specializing on special education at Syracuse University. Holds a postgraduate in Content Based Instruction and has taken two international certification programs, one of them at Hunter College in New York and the second one in SIT TESOL at Centro Espiral Mana, Costa Rica. He has also been in charge of two MOOC camps, one about Content- Based Instruction and another one about Teaching Grammar Communicatively. Mr. Montenegro has taught English for 13 years and Social Studies for 7 years. He has also been a presenter at The NicaTESOL conference, HELTA Tesol in Honduras, BETA Tesol in Bolivia , EFL Talks, Ven Tesol and workshops done in the Caribbean Region of Nicaragua. Mr. Montenegro has been the director of the Language department at UNICIT university, Director of Roosevelt English Institute, Coordinator of CARCIP BPO program at UAM university, and has worked at UCA and UNAN universities as well in Nicaragua. 

 Setting up a self-paced learning EFL classroom by -Irvin Romero

Abstract: Helping students become self-regulated learners is one of the biggest challenges in education; however, a self-paced classroom, one where all students work individually and collaboratively at their own pace, provides the ideal scenario to develop self-regulating skills. By the end of this presentation, participants will obtain insights into how to set up a self-paced classroom in their English lessons.

Session Type: Talk / lecture

Audience Focus: Higher education, College-level high-school

Bio: Msc. Language Education, with nine years of experience designing and developing English programs, business English courses and Test preparation programs aimed for children, teenagers, and adults in public and private schools, NGOs, and academies. I have strong knowledge of language education, research, and teacher professional development. Currently, I work as an English teacher at Centro ¡Supérate! Merlet, a scholarship program in El Salvador and Panama attending high-performing students from public high schools.

Authentic ways to practice English by Carlyn Smith

Abstract: Frequently we teach grammar and vocabulary and we keep asking students to do the same activities and exercises. During this presentation we will discuss some activities and assignments for your students to practice English in a more authentic way.

Session Type: Talk / lecture

Audience Focus: College-level high-school, Middle school

Bio: Panamanian, Bachelor in Psychology, MBA in Human Resources. Previous experience in Human Resources. Degree in Preschool teaching techniques. Alumni of the Educational Leadership Program of Enseña por Panama and member of the Teach for All Network. Currently working as an English teacher at Centro ¡Supérate! Provivienda 

To watch the recording, click here!

https://qlu-pa.zoom.us/rec/share/6jWcINYcdmnDJzHloAvwbMe2-4yLC8zqO-eOJtP5PxGhs7VUxH53bDtUvj2eXPxp.q_P0VxNqNTeGnwIv
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SEL Skills Development: An Innovative Practice in ELT? by Grazzia Mendoza

Abstract: In this world’s complexity and new sites of crisis and conflict emerging, social and emotional learning becomes more relevant in ELT. Is it innovative? Through this session we will explore social and emotional learning strategies to promote peacebuilding and classroom environments of respect and tolerance and respond this question. Participants will leave with tips and suggested techniques/resources.

Session Type: Talk / lecture

Audience Focus:  All audiences

Bio: Grazzia Mendoza Education Specialist, Teacher Trainer and Researcher. She has managed and designed education projects to support the Ministry of Education in Honduras to ensure access, quality of education and safe learning spaces for close to 2 million learners in the country She has been a language educator for 30 years. She holds a M.Ed. in international education and completed an M.A. in TESOL. She has held a variety of positions in PK-12 as well as Higher Education and trained teachers in different parts of the world for over 15 years. She is a US State Department Alumna recognized for project development for teachers’ professional growth projects and was recognized by TESOL International Association for her scholarship and service through the Virginia French Allen Award. Her research interests include CALL, CBLT and Methodological Improvements for Professional Development. She is the founder and former President HELTA TESOL in Honduras, former President of Latin America and Caribbean TESOL, and Past Member of TESOL International Association Board of Directors, where she served as Chair of the Finance Committee.

«Developing Scientific Communication Skills in English» by Bethany Cagnol

Abstract: English trainees in the sciences, whether they be undergraduates, PhD students, researchers or professors are under constant pressure to promote their work to a global audience. Based on a new MOOC on Coursera, «Promote your Scientific Results,» this practical talk provides participants with high-quality and free content they can use in their scientific and/or EMI contexts.

Session Type: Forum including Q&As, Talk / lecture

Audience Focus: Higher education

Bio: Bethany Cagnol is an English professor at the Télécom Paris Languages and Cultures Department and is the Treasurer of IATEFL. She provides training services at Télécom Paris in its transition towards English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI). She coaches professors and researchers who wish to deliver their courses, publish articles, or give conference presentations in English. In 2021 she co-authored a MOOC on Coursera entitled Promote your Scientific Results.

Creating a Learning Experience by Jesus Gutierrez 

Abstract: People have talked about Gamification for a long time. However, they usually explain how single tools can be used to make students feel entertained. This workshop will help teachers create multilevel video games that make learning possible, assessment more interesting and students more engaged. Consequently, the language learning experience will be not only fun but also meaningful.

Session Type: Workshop / Demonstration

Bio 

Jesus Gutierrez has been an English teacher for 19 years. He was the head of the language labs for Universidad Simon Bolivar (Venezuela). Currently, He is the Academic Director of Great Language Academy which provides language courses to companies (nationals and multinationals). He is also a founding member of Lingua, a group of professionals that specializes in professional development for teachers. 

Communicative Language Teaching and the Creative Classroom by William Little US Embassy

Abstract: Every teacher aspires to be creative, to have a creative classroom.  Creativity is exciting, it’s fun and inspiring.  It can be beautiful and controversial at the same time. But, it is not random or accidental.  That ‘Aha Moment’ our students experience is the fruit of dedicated practice rather than a hoped-for bolt out of the blue.  Similarly, creative teaching is not simply latching on to the latest technology or using the buzzwords currently in vogue.  Nor is it an abandoning of curricular standards or required coursework. Establishing a classroom that promotes creative thinking is an intentional (and fun) process.

Bio: William Little is a Regional English Language Officer (RELO) currently based in Panama City, Panama  with a portfolio covering Panama, Central America and the Caribbean.  His previous assignments include serving as RELO in Dakar, Senegal,  Jakarta, Indonesia and Regional Program Officer for SCA while serving one year in Washington, DC with Office of English Language Programs in the US Department of State.  He holds master’s degrees from the University of Colorado, Boulder (Sport Psychology) and the University of Texas, San Antonio (Bicultural – Bilingual Studies) and has over 30 years’ experience in the ESL/EFL field both in the US and overseas. Prior to joining the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs in 2015, Bill was a professor at Georgetown University for 10 years at the Center for Language and Education Development.  His primary interests in teaching and education are blended learning with mobile devices, teaching and learning applications, learner autonomy, and social entrepreneurship.

Audience Focus: College-level high-school, Middle school, Elementary