Topic: "Exploring Myths in Education"
by Adam Coates, Gyeonggi-do Institute for Foreign Language Education (GIFLE)
Date/Time: November 21 (Saturday, 3-5PM)
Venue: Rm. 105, Injaegwan (Sookmyung Professional Center), Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul, South Korea
President/Workshop Coordinator: Dr. Ian Done D. Ramos / workshop@seoulkotesol.org / president@seoulkotesol.org / professionalworkian@gmail.com
Abstract
Education is saturated with values. This often leads people to accept ideas that are ideologically sound, but have been shown inaccurate though scientific research. Teachers whose practice is based on misguided beliefs will unavoidably become inefficient and ineffective, though they may not be aware of these themselves. This workshop will lead participants to reconsider some of their unquestioned norms. Seeking to address common misconceptions and misunderstandings that have more practical influence, attendees will be invited to explore their preconceptions and later reconsider their opinions through presentation and reflective discussion. There will be exploration of some causes behind peoples’ faith in fictions, allowing participants to be aware of how misconceptions arise and developing the ability to be more prudent when faced with new ideas in the future. Meaningful changes in practice that can result from realignment of values will also be reflected upon, leaving attendees with a more accurate notion of teaching and learning, and how to best invest their time.
Biography
Adam Coates is currently an instructor at the Gyeonggi-do Institute for Foreign Language Education where he delivers professional development to Korean teachers. Originally trained as a mathematics teacher in the UK, since arriving in Korea 5 years ago he has redirected his focus to language teaching. He has taught English in a variety of contexts, ranging from Elementary level to senior Public Servants. His academic interests include processes of learning and teacher training.
