Shaping Skills, Shaping Minds: A Microteaching Tale

Microteaching is a transformative experience that allows aspiring educators like me to refine essential teaching skills. I recently took two microteaching sessions, focusing on the Skill of Questioning and the Skill of Illustration, which proved to be enriching milestones in my journey as a teacher trainee.

Skill of Questioning (24th September)

On 24th September, I took a class to practice the Skill of Questioning, an integral tool for promoting active learning and critical thinking.

• Key Strategies Used:
  • Framed open-ended and closed-ended questions to encourage participation.
  • Used probing questions to delve deeper into students’ responses.
  • Redirected questions to involve multiple learners and sustain engagement.

The session was interactive and engaging, as students responded enthusiastically to the carefully designed questions. Feedback from my peers and mentors helped me identify ways to further enhance this skill.

 Skill of Illustration (29th September)

On 29th September, I conducted a session on the Skill of Illustration, focusing on simplifying abstract concepts through relatable examples and visual aids.

• Highlights of the Session:
  • Used everyday objects and things to visually explain key ideas.
  • Incorporated real-life examples and analogies to make complex concepts relatable.
  • Ensured that every illustration was relevant and aligned with the learning objectives.

This session was particularly rewarding, as I received positive feedback for making the content engaging and easy to understand.

Reflection and Growth

These microteaching sessions were invaluable in honing my teaching abilities. The Skill of Questioning helped me understand the power of inquiry in fostering student interaction, while the Skill of Illustration demonstrated the importance of making learning visual and relatable.

The feedback I received from my peers and mentors offered constructive insights, encouraging me to refine my techniques and explore innovative ways to engage learners.

Microteaching has been a stepping stone in my journey toward becoming an effective educator. It reinforced my belief in the importance of preparation, creativity, and adaptability in teaching. I look forward to more opportunities to practice and grow in this rewarding profession.

 Onam Tales: From Petals to Performances

Onam, the festival of unity, prosperity, and culture, was celebrated with grandeur at our college this year. The event brought together students and faculty to honor Kerala’s rich heritage while infusing a touch of satire, creativity, and camaraderie.

The day began with the creation of a vibrant Athapookalam, a floral carpet symbolizing harmony and prosperity. Juniors and seniors came together to design intricate patterns with colorful petals, setting the festive tone for the celebrations. The highlight of the morning was the grand entry of Mahabali, portrayed by one of our classmate. In his satirical speech, King Mahabali humorously commented on current issues like technology addiction, climate change, and societal pressures, all while blending wit and wisdom. The students and faculty burst into laughter at the clever jabs, making the segment both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The much-awaited Mega Thiruvathira, a traditional dance form performed in a circle, brought the campus alive with rhythm and grace. Both juniors and seniors participated in the synchronized performance, showcasing their cultural pride and teamwork. The vibrant costumes and melodious tunes added to the festive spirit.

Following the Thiruvathira, the stage was set for a variety of cultural programs:

• Dance Performances: Traditional and modern dances by juniors and seniors enthralled the audience.
• Music and Drama: Songs and short plays captured the essence of Onam, blending nostalgia with creativity.
• Onam Games: Fun-filled games like tug-of-war and sack races added a playful touch to the celebrations.

The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks, followed by a delicious Onasadya, the traditional Onam feast. The event not only honored Kerala’s cultural legacy but also strengthened the bonds between students and faculty, making it a day to remember.

Onam at our college was more than a celebration; it was a vibrant blend of tradition, humor, and unity—a true reflection of the festival’s spirit. As Mahabali’s speech reminded us, we must embrace change with a smile and work together for a brighter tomorrow. Happy Onam!

 Lights, Camera, Welcome: A Mollywood Themed Freshers’ Bash

Our Mount Tabor Training college recently hosted a vibrant Freshers’ Day Celebration, organized by the seniors to welcome our new batch with open arms and warm hearts. With a unique Mollywood theme, the event was a tribute to Kerala’s beloved film industry, blending creativity, entertainment, and camaraderie.

The venue was transformed into a Mollywood-inspired wonderland, complete with movie posters, cutouts  and reels of Kerala’s cinematic heritage. Seniors greeted the freshers with themed props and a red-carpet vibe, making them feel like stars. The event unfolded with a series of exciting activities, all aligned with the Mollywood theme. Freshers entertained the crowd by imitating famous dialogues and mannerisms of Mollywood legends.  A rapid-fire quiz tested participants’ knowledge of Malayalam cinema.

The highlight of the event was the warm interaction between seniors and freshers. Seniors shared insights into college life, encouraging the juniors to embrace their journey with enthusiasm and confidence. The Mollywood-themed Freshers’ Day was a spectacular success, leaving everyone with cherished memories. It wasn’t just a celebration—it was a cinematic start to an exciting chapter, promising laughter, learning, and lasting friendships in the years ahead.

 Chalk, Dreams, and Gratitude: Teacher’s Day celebration

Teacher’s Day, celebrated annually on September 5th, holds a special place in every student’s heart. At our B.Ed. college Mount Tabor, this year’s celebration was a heartfelt homage to the mentors who shape minds and inspire futures. The event was filled with gratitude, joy, and moments of reflection on the noble profession of teaching.

The day began with a warm welcome and an inspiring inaugural speech by our Principal  Dr. Rosamma Philip. The significance of Teacher’s Day, honoring Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, was beautifully highlighted, reminding us of the vital role teachers play in society. Students presented handmade cards, flowers, and small tokens of appreciation to their mentors. The thoughtful gestures deeply touched the teachers, reflecting the strong bond shared within our academic community.

The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks and reflections by the faculty, who shared their teaching journeys and encouraged the aspiring educators in the audience. The celebration left everyone inspired to uphold the values of dedication and compassion that define great teaching.

Teacher’s Day at our college was more than an event; it was a celebration of the selfless efforts of educators who shape the world one student at a time. Here’s to our teachers—our guiding lights, mentors, and lifelong inspirations. Happy Teacher’s Day!

 Nutri-Fun Fiesta: A Celebration of Health and Creativity

The Natural Science students organized a vibrant and interactive Nutrition Week Celebration, blending fun, creativity, and learning to promote the importance of healthy eating habits. The event featured a unique three-fold program that left everyone inspired and delighted. 

Salad Making and Fruit Carving Competition

The day kicked off with a colorful and creative Salad Making and Fruit Carving Competition. Students showcased their artistic flair by crafting visually stunning and nutritious dishes. From intricately carved fruit sculptures to beautifully plated salads, each creation highlighted the beauty and benefits of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Judges evaluated entries based on creativity, presentation, and nutritional value, making this segment both fun and educational.

The Guessing Game

Next up was the engaging Guessing Game, where participants were blindfolded and challenged to identify food items either by touch or taste. This activity not only tested their senses but also encouraged them to appreciate the textures and flavors of natural foods. Laughter and cheers filled the room as students made hilarious guesses, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere.

Riddle Game

The celebration concluded with a Riddle Game, where students tackled clever, food-themed riddles. This segment combined critical thinking with fun, sparking lively discussions and camaraderie among participants. The riddles highlighted interesting facts about nutrition, reinforcing the educational aspect of the event in an entertaining way.

Among the participating groups, the English optional students proudly secured the overall third prize. The event wasn’t just about competitions; it was a celebration of healthy lifestyles and the joy of learning. The smiles, laughter, and enthusiasm throughout the day proved that health and happiness truly go hand in hand.

Kudos to the Natural Science group for organizing such a delightful and impactful program! Here’s to more such celebrations that inspire and educate in equal measure.