A First Time Moderator

I was asked by my institution to be a moderator for a presentation in teaching children. It was OK until I knew that the presenter was a Mexico born American. Many school teachers would also be there. Of course I was thrilled at the same time because he was the writer of a best selling English learning book for children, that way I could ask him anything I want as a privilege of becoming his moderator.

So there I was, sitting next to him. My voice was trembling as I saw many unknown faces. His assurance that everything was going to be okay really helped me to cope with the nerve and the adrenaline rush. After some time, I found that I enjoyed sitting there, close to the screen and saw all the actions. I even took time to take pictures. :-)

There are several interesting points I want to share, in case you are into children teaching.
He mentioned about constructivist theory. Normally, we have the stages of ENGAGE, STUDY and then ACTIVATE. The constructivists believe that the stage should go in the following order:

ENGAGE
Through situation

ACTIVATE
Group activities

STUDY
Presentation

ACTIVATE
Through questions and expressions

It makes sense because after we teach using context, we have to be sure that the students really understand. After the “study” stage, a teacher must also check whether learning takes place.



But what was so fun was that the workshop did not bore us at all. We became seven year olds and we enjoyed singing, doing physical activities and there were door prizes!!! Totally cool….

For sure, I will not think twice if I have to be a moderator again…. 