"Mere textual knowledge without practical knowledge becomes "allergy." On the other hand, when bookish knowledge is transformed into practical knowledge, it becomes "energy." You wish to know what real knowledge is: that which has been acquired by practice is the real knowledge. That alone would entitle you to the epithet manavatwa (humanness). Embodiments of Love! All that we teach to others must be supported by practice."
Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Sri Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol 38, April 11, 2005
With the blessings and guidance of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the first National SSE Refresher-Enrichment was conducted on Sunday July 19 and July 26, 2020. This course was required for all trained SSE teachers throughout the nation.
Each region has been conducting in-person enrichment/refresher workshops once or twice a year. Since most of our meetings are now conducted virtually, we received several requests for an online National refresher. Here is a brief overview of aspects that were unique about the National refresher and those that are similar to in-person training.
Unique aspects
- All elements of this event have been developed based on direct input from Regional and Center coordinators (over 80 respondents).
- Each workshop team was co-led by two Regional Education Coordinators, an advisor (senior and experienced SSE teacher) and the core team of coordinators and teachers representing all regions with a strong and diverse background. Over 100 SSE teacher volunteers worked together to facilitate four workshops.
- Content development was based on initial input from teachers/coordinators and from the registration form responses. Personalized workbooks based on the SSE group were prepared by workshop teams to enhance the learning experience.
- Collaborative learning among teachers of the same SSE group, yet across regions.
- About 48% of registered teachers have had 0-5 years of experience. Participants in each breakout group were selected such that there was a balance between reginal representation and years of experience.
- Over 700 SSE teachers registered for enrichment
Similar to in-person training
- One workshop topic for all attendees. (No concurrent sessions)
- Given the interactive nature of workshops, recording was NOT possible.
Sunday July 19
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Topic |
Objectives |
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Session 1 Child Development-Creating a New Mindset |
A) Teachers will become familiar with the development patterns and behaviors of children in every SSE group. B) Teachers will examine the importance of being accepting, responsive and firm in class. C) Teachers will put into practice the above concepts in a simulated classroom setting. Please find below the materials:
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Session 2 Parent-Teacher
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A) Why- to understand why parent-teacher partnership is essential to the success of the SSE student and program. B) What- learn what a teacher can do to build and maintain strong connections with the parents of their SSE students. C) How- share tools and techniques on how a teacher can overcome challenges (submitted via the registration survey). Please find below the materials:
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Sunday July 26
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Topic |
Objectives |
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Session 1 Head, Heart, Hand- Life Application
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A) To be able to create simple, specific and concrete life applications to practice B) To bring out a new understanding in our lives from Swami’s teachings C) To experience the connection with our inner SELF Through Unity in Thought, Word and Deed Please find below the materials:
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Session 2 Ready, Sai, Go |
All participants will have a chance to enhance the value of incorporating activities, thereby increasing its impact and enriching their overall knowledge in order to blossom the divinity within. Please find below the materials: |