21st century teaching and learning assessment

 The 21st century has brought transformative changes to teaching and learning assessment, emphasizing skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Traditional assessment methods, such as standardized tests, are increasingly being complemented or replaced by more holistic and formative approaches that reflect these new educational priorities.

Reflecting on the Mega Festival 2024 in Thimphu

 Introduction

The Mega Festival held from the 21st to the 25th of 2024 at Changlingmethang platform in Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city, was an event that garnered significant attention and attendance. Spanning five consecutive days, the festival featured a wide array of talented bands and performers who showcased their indigenous skills in singing, dancing, and rapping. The event ran from 6 PM to 3:30 AM daily and attracted a diverse crowd, predominantly composed of youth. While the festival provided a vibrant and enjoyable experience for many, it also raised several concerns regarding public behavior and the overall impact on the community. This journal aims to reflect on the festival, considering both its positive aspects and the challenges it posed, and to provide insights into how future events can be better managed.

Journal Entry: Civil Service Marathon 2024

Date: March 9, 2024

As I reflect on the today's event, participating in the Civil Service Marathon 2024, I am filled with a mixture of pride and concern. The main objective of this marathon was clear from its inception 2019- to promote the health and well-being of civil servants. It's a noble cause, one that resonates deeply with me and many others who took part in this endeavor.

The organizers had meticulously planned the marathon, dividing 408 participants into three categories to accommodate participants of different demographics. Women were identified with pink number tags, men under the age of 54 with yellow tags, and veterans aged 54 and above with red tags. This categorization not only added a sense of inclusivity but also allowed for fair competition within each group.

Journal Entry: Those Who Love, They Teach

Introduction:

In the realm of education, amidst the chaos of political agendas and societal demands, there exists a silent force, often overlooked and underestimated – the teachers. They are the ones who illuminate the path of knowledge, shaping the minds and futures of generations to come. Yet, their dedication and sacrifices often go unnoticed, overshadowed by the political hurdles and bureaucratic red tape that plague the education system. In this journal entry, I delve into the intricate web of challenges faced by educators, particularly in the context of Bhutan, where promises are made and broken, and where the welfare of teachers and students hangs precariously in the balance.

Reflective Journal on CL4STEM TOT Workshop: Empowering Secondary School STEM Educators

Day 2: February 27, 2024

The second day of the CL4STEM TOT Workshop continued to offer a wealth of insights and practical strategies aimed at empowering secondary school STEM educators. As we delved deeper into innovative pedagogical approaches and explored the integration of technology in teaching, the workshop provided a platform for reflection, collaboration, and professional growth.

Session 1: Reflective Teaching with Technology

Dr. Reeta Rai commenced the day with a thought-provoking session on Reflective Teaching with Technology (RTICT). Through interactive discussions and practical demonstrations, Dr. Rai highlighted the importance of leveraging technology to enhance teaching practices and promote reflective pedagogy. As educators, we were encouraged to embrace digital tools and platforms that facilitate active learning, student engagement, and formative assessment. The session underscored the transformative potential of technology in education and motivated us to explore innovative ways of integrating technology into our teaching repertoire.

Reflective Journal on CL4STEM TOT Workshop: Empowering Secondary School STEM Educators

Introduction

The CL4STEM TOT Workshop organized by Samtse College of Education in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Skills Development marked a significant endeavor to empower secondary school STEM educators in Bhutan. As one of the selected participants in the Thimphu Cluster, I embarked on a transformative journey aimed at enhancing my teaching practices and integrating innovative approaches into the curriculum. This reflective journal serves as a platform to document my experiences, insights, and key learnings from the workshop.

Commencing the Academic Journey of 2024 at Babesa Higher Secondary School

 As the dawn of a new academic year graced the corridors of Babesa Higher Secondary School, the air buzzed with anticipation and excitement. The fervor of new beginnings was palpable, echoing through the halls as faculty alike prepared to embark on yet another enriching journey of knowledge and growth.

The day commenced with a warm welcome note delivered by the esteemed principal, whose words resonated with optimism and encouragement. The principal extended heartfelt greetings to both returning faculty and newcomers, emphasizing the school's commitment to nurturing academic excellence and holistic development.

A highlight of the morning's proceedings was the ceremonious welcoming of new teachers with traditional Khadars. This time-honored gesture symbolized not only a gesture of hospitality but also a deep-rooted respect for the incoming educators, acknowledging their pivotal role in shaping the minds of Babesa HSS.

Journal Entry: The Last Day of the ITEC Program - December 12, 2023

December 12, 2023

Today marked the culmination of a month-long journey that transcended borders and cultures. The ITEC program, a collaborative effort to enhance knowledge and foster international cooperation, came to an end on this momentous 12th of December, 2023. The air was charged with a mix of excitement and nostalgia as we gathered for the final day's activities.

The day began in the early hours, under the supervision of the esteemed Professor Dr. KSA Dinesh. We were handed forms, a routine but necessary formality for the ITEC program, along with feedback forms that would serve as a testament to our experiences and the effectiveness of the program. These bureaucratic rituals were but a prelude to the main event - the Valedictory Function.

Journal Entry - December 11, 2023 - Back to NITTTR campus

December 11, 2023

The day unfolded with a subtle charm, offering a well-deserved respite for the participants of the NITTTR program. The morning session was declared a moment of reprieve, acknowledging the Hattic journey that had captivated our attention the day before. The echoes of that cultural expedition lingered in the air, prompting some of us to seize the opportunity and explore the vibrant streets of Chennai.

Saravana Stores, a bustling shopping emporium, became the epicenter of our retail therapy. Nestled in the heart of the city, this retail giant is not merely a shopping destination; it is a cultural phenomenon that has evolved over the years. Established in 1969, Saravana Stores has grown from a humble textile showroom to a sprawling retail conglomerate, encompassing diverse segments such as clothing, electronics, and household items. The store's success is deeply rooted in its commitment to providing quality products at reasonable prices, making it a favored haunt for locals and tourists alike.

Journal Entry - December 9th-10th, 2023

 December 9th, 2023

Today marked an exciting chapter in our journey at the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTTR). On the 9th of December 2023, participants were treated to a delightful day of sightseeing, exploring the cultural and historical gems of Mysuru.

Our adventure commenced with a visit to the renowned Mysuru Zoo, officially known as the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens. Nestled in the heart of Mysuru, this zoo has a rich history dating back to 1892 when it was established by the then Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar. Covering an expansive area of 157 acres, the zoo is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including exotic species from around the globe.