Assured Certificate in Teacher Education (ACTE) course significantly impacted my knowledge, skills, and attitude as a teacher educator. I realised its importance after attending a few meetings with the course facilitators. First, I learnt to prepare session plans in detail, including, but not limited to, participants' profiles, SMART learning outcomes, and diverse activities catering to the needs of participants (SEN participants).
Similarly, I also enhanced my skills in delivering a participatory workshop, such as giving clear instructions, managing time, working with co-facilitators, etc. Moreover, the feedback sessions and learning materials enhanced my knowledge and deepened my understanding of teacher training and workshops.
Before ACTE, I did have theoretical knowledge about designing and delivering teacher training. However, the facilitators' attention to minute details during this course clarified many misconceptions and myths about training. The intensive discussion, feedback, and multiple revisions proved insightful for me both as a teacher and trainer.
Recently, my colleague and I delivered a GESI (Gender Equality and Social Inclusion) training, during which two visually impaired participants appreciated our effort to involve them in our activities. They remarked, "This is the first time we ever felt empowered and engaged in the training." While reflecting on the experience, I realized that the micro training we designed and delivered focusing on SEN participants sensitized us about the requirements and expectations of participants with special needs.
In conclusion, for a trainee like me, the ACTE course was a transformative journey from teacher to teacher trainer. The knowledge, skills, and insights I developed during this course have empowered me in my teaching and teacher training.