Continuous Professional Programs (CPD) for teachers aim not only at mastering the latest teaching methods, technologies, and educational research, but fostering a culture of collaboration in an international environment. CPD also plays a crucial role in supporting the well-being of teachers, contributing to a healthier, more balanced professional life.
Oksana CHUGAI, Associate Professor at the Department of English for Engineering № 2 of National Technical University of Ukraine “Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute” (Kyiv, Ukraine), took part in the Summer Course “Storytelling with a Purpose” in Siófok, Hungary between15-19 July, 2024. This event was co-hosted by Angoltanárok Nemzetközi Egyesülete – Magyarország (TESOL Hungary) and TESOL-Ukraine, sponsored by Regional English Language Office, U.S. Embassy, Kyiv.
A group of 48 educators from Ukraine and Hungary attended various sessions “Storytelling from the Soul”, “Body Semiotics”, “Professional Stories”, “Identity Wheels”, “Healing Power of Storytelling”, “Silent Books”, “Storyboarding”, to name just a few. For Final Projects the participants worked in teams and prepared group skits which presented each individual takeaway.
This Summer Course “Storytelling with a Purpose” in Siófok, Hungary was special as Ukrainian participants shared their wartime stories with others, spreading the word of what is happening in Ukraine. All the participants had an opportunity to grow professionally, co-operate with like-minded people and recharge their batteries preparing for next academic year. It was an investment in the future of ESL teachers, leading to a more dynamic, innovative, and successful educational system.
