Dean tasks teachers to embrace new skills of teaching English, Literature

The Dean of the Faculty of Arts, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Gideon Sunday Omachonu, has urged secondary school teachers from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to embrace new teaching methodologies and skills in English and Literature. 

Omachonu stated this during a workshop held at the faculty’s theatre at the NOUN headquarters in Abuja, tagged: "A One-Day Workshop for FCT Secondary School Teachers of English Language and Literature."

It was aimed at equipping educators with innovative strategies to improve their effectiveness in the classroom.

 "Workshops like this provide invaluable opportunities to collaborate and forge connections that can inspire further academic partnerships," the dean said, and encouraged attendees to engage in thoughtful discussions. 

He highlighted the importance of fostering a rich intellectual environment, noting how such interactions could enhance their teaching practices.

The workshop delved into various aspects of teaching, with a strong focus on the power of reading.

Facilitators, on their part, pointed out that students who excel in English are often those who have developed strong reading habits. 

They stressed that literature plays a pivotal role in mastering the English language and encouraged teachers to cultivate a culture of reading among their students.

During the workshop, participants learned that literature serves not just as a subject but as an essential tool in mastering the English language. 

Series of hands-on sessions were held with the aim of boosting reading speed, implementing effective essay-writing rubrics, and harnessing technology in English language instruction. 

Educators were encouraged to make their teaching approaches more dynamic, fostering a love for literature among their students as they were reminded of the significant impact they have on their students' performance especially when students excel.

This initiative was sparked by research conducted by NOUN English Language faculty members: Dr. Tonia Yakubu, Dr. T. O. Iyere, Dr. Felica Oamen, and Dr. Felix Yakubu, who explored the challenges students face in English during WAEC and NECO examinations. 

It was a collaborative effort between NOUN and the FCT Teachers' Board that aspired to enhance the quality of English language education in the FCT. 

Participants, primarily FCT teachers, left the workshop equipped with fresh insights and practical skills to inspire their students, knowing that a teacher's influence often shapes a student's success in the classroom.