Maneesha Saru, a teacher with ten years of experience, discovered that applying a variety of classroom techniques not only makes teaching easier but also ensures better learning outcomes.
“Through the English for Teaching training provided by the British Council, I learned a range of techniques from the trainers that showed me how teaching can be made more effective and manageable," she explained. Previously, she often felt burdened by the challenge of engaging learners. For instance, when she assigned classroom tasks, some students struggled to write or were hesitant to participate. "At the training, I learned that using warmer activities increases engagement at the start of a lesson, while recapping at the end helps consolidate learning. For language focus, I also learned how to teach stress for accurate pronunciation."
After the training, Maneesha put her newly acquired techniques into practice and noticed a remarkable transformation in her classroom. Her learners became more active, engaged, and motivated. One strategy in particular, encouraging group work, produced the most visible results. Even her quiet students began writing and participating, no longer afraid of making mistakes.
Classroom discipline improved, student interest grew, and learning retention strengthened.
"I'm so grateful for the opportunity to take part in this programme," she shared. "There are still many techniques I'd like to learn, such as using timelines to clarify tenses. Programmes like this not only build our capacity as teachers but also ensure better learning outcomes for our children."
Case study written by Sharda Rai Joshi, Education Consultant, British Council Nepal.