Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 22: St Aloysius Institute of Education, a distinguished institution for teacher training, hosted a welcoming event along with a ‘Four-day Student Induction Programme’ for its eighteenth batch of students with an aim to furnish them with essential information and foster a supportive atmosphere conducive to their professional growth and comfort.
During his address, the chief guest, Fr Melwyn Lobo SJ, principal, Gonzaga CBSE School, spoke on the significance of teacher training programme in providing essential pedagogical knowledge encompassing instructional strategies, classroom management techniques, and assessment practices. This knowledge enables trainees to effectively deliver lessons and support student learning. St Aloysius BEd College offers opportunities for trainees to acquire practical experience, guided by the four Jesuit educational values: Competence, Conscience, Compassion, and Commitment. These values prepare them to serve as educators, mentors, facilitators, and collaborators, meeting the demands of contemporary schools. Expanding on his point, the chief guest highlighted the technique of facing both negative and positive motives in life. He suggested that focusing on one task at a time aids in overcoming stress amidst a busy schedule. Teachers can aspire to greatness and leave a lasting impact on their students by nurturing a passion for teaching, fostering a culture of continuous learning, confronting challenges, and fostering a compassionate classroom environment that prioritizes student well-being, learning, and development.
Shivani, an alumna of the year 2017-19 and who is currently pursuing her doctoral studies, inspired the incoming students by recounting how a multitude of opportunities, exposures, and challenges caused profound professional as well as personal growth in her. Reflecting on her time at her alma mater, she emphasized how she assimilated pedagogical techniques, developed compassion for learners, embraced inclusivity, honed classroom management skills, developed public speaking skills, mastered technology integration, and cultivated adaptability to navigate new circumstances throughout her two-year training period.
Dr Farita Viegas, the principal, in her address, emphasized the significance of addressing diverse student needs and managing challenging behaviours in teaching. She stressed the importance of cultivating strong relationships with students to establish trust and foster a positive learning atmosphere. She highlighted that when students feel valued and understood, they are more likely to actively participate in classroom activities. She also insisted the importance of academic knowledge for teachers, stating that staying updated through reading enables teachers to integrate the latest trends and advancements in education, that ensures the implementation of effective teaching methods. Additionally, the Principal said, the need for teachers to demonstrate compassion towards learners, as it contributes to the creation of supportive learning environments that enhance the overall well-being of the school community.
The event began with an invocation by the second-year students. Delna Lobo, vice principal, rendered the welcome address. Sarika Rodrigues, a faculty member, provided a brief overview of the college's vision, mission, and the course. Shika, a second-year student, proposed the vote of thanks. Yashaswi, a second-year student, served as the programme's compere.
The induction programme spanning four days was designed to assist new students for their smooth transition into their new academic setting with a series of following sessions:
'Knowing Oneself' led by Dr Paul D'Souza, assistant professor in the department of commerce, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru.
'The Art of Being Creative' facilitated by Dr Flosy C R D'Souza, associate professor, St Ann's College of Education (Autonomous), Pandeshwar, Mangaluru.
'Fostering Collaboration and Teamwork' conducted by Dr Sandra Lobo, head of department of psychology, School of Social Works Roshni Nilaya (Autonomous), Mangaluru.
'Communication Styles for Teachers' delivered by Dr Anup Denzil Veigas, assistant professor, department of English, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru.
'Promoting Growth Mindset in the Teaching Profession' led by Dr Sr Severine Menezes SAP, director of the counselling centre in Mulki.
'Proactive Leadership' by Fr Ashwin Cardoza, director - ICYM, diocese of Mangalore.
The induction programme concluded with a presentation outlining the college's rules and regulations, followed by self-introductions by both the students and the staff, and with a guided tour of the campus. Joshna B, the staff in-charge, meticulously organized the entire programme.