What inspired you to join Pamoja online teaching community?
I was going to move back to France and it was almost impossible to find an international school near where we were going to be based. Pamoja allowed me to continue teaching in international schools while living in France.
Can you share a memorable teaching moment or success story with Pamoja?
It was when a past student got in touch with me to ask for a University recommendation. She had called me a gem teacher in her own feedback to Pamoja and she felt that I knew her well enough to make the recommendation, which I did. I had told her what I based my recommendation on and how I saw her bloom in the language, and she had then realised how far she had come since joining Pamoja. It was very moving and rewarding.
How has teaching with Pamoja influenced or enhanced your overall teaching philosophy?
The close rapport we create with students in class can also be achieved online. Even though we do not meet our students face-to-face, by marking their work, meeting them regularly for discussion sessions, and by being very available and reactive over email, we can definitely get to know them and therefore cater for each individual to make them achieve their true potential at the end of their two-year course with Pamoja.
What strategies do you employ to ensure student participation and active engagement?
I try to make myself available and accessible. I respond as soon as possible. All my devices are on silent, so students can write to me and send their queries whenever it is convenient for them. I remind them that, because of the time difference, it may take me up to a day to respond but that I will do so as soon as possible. I always make sure that I remain flexible within our roles and responsibilities, and I remind myself that every student is an individual and that their needs may vary. I use the target language from day one, introducing greetings and polite expressions such as “bonjour” and “merci” which students all start using very quickly. I greet them, thank them, and say goodbye individually through every oral to ensure individuality. I also send reminders using various channels to ensure they all get the communication needed.
Sum up your Pamoja educator experience in 3 words.
Fabulous, liberating, innovative
What advice do you give for future Pamoja students?
Do take deadlines seriously from day 1. Whenever there is some down time, see what you can do to keep ahead of your deadlines.
