Beyond the home environment, a classroom (be it online or physical) influences shaping the malleable minds of learners. As the custodians of these learning journeys, teachers must be upskilled to communicate effectively in the English language. By serving as the benchmark of the right pronunciation, grammar, and speech style, teachers can help students acquire stronger verbal and written proficiency that can be applied by them later in many walks of life.
On November 24 and 30, 2023, respectively, the University of Baguio (UB) through the Human Resource Management Center (HRMC) conducted two webinar workshops entitled “Advancing the English Language Competencies of UB Teachers” specifically on Speaking and Listening. This is part of UB’s Faculty Development Program (FDP). In these webinars, all teaching and non-teaching employees who have teaching loads were enjoined in order to be enlightened and enriched on the topics at hand. This webinar-workshop series was also a response to UB’s internationalization at home by incorporating international dimensions both in the curriculum and in the learning process (CMO 55, s. 2016). This activity utilized the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which describes the language learners’ ability in terms of speaking, reading, listening, and writing.
UB makes sure that all its teachers improve their fluency and proficiency in the English Language. This aligns with the United Nations – Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDG) No. 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by promoting skilled employees that are essential in a changing economy and economic shifts that are constant. UB ensures the well-being of its teachers, thereby contributing to the goal of decent work and sustainable economic growth within the university community.
Through this activity, UB can also contribute significantly to having teachers who are not only skilled in their subject matter but are also proficient in English, thus preparing students for success in a globally connected and changing economy.
Written by Griffin Johnstad Sanchez and Kareen Leon
