GLXi’s Open Minds in Action Workshops: A Teacher’s Perspective
GLXi’s Open Minds in Action workshops deliver information, tools, and activities that Guatemalan teachers have themselves identified as important and helpful to bring back to their classrooms.
Not only are these workshops fun, but they also foster meaningful connections among GLXiⓇ trained teachers, and provide continuous support throughout the school year.
We checked in with third grade teacher Ana María del Rosario Castillo Carías, at Escuela Oficial Urbana Mixta Colonia 1 de Mayo, and asked about her experience attending GLXi’s teacher workshops. We thought you’d enjoy reading part of that discussion!
Q: When and how did you first get involved with Global Learning Exchange Initiative?
A: I got involved with GLXi in 2023, when I received an invitation from my school administration. They told us about a program that supported teachers with innovative strategies to improve students’ reading and writing, and I became interested in participating from that moment.
GLXi teacher Ana María del Rosario Castillo Carías says the Open Minds in Action teacher workshops have given her new tools in the classroom that keep her students engaged.
Q: When did you start participating in the teacher workshops?
A: My first workshop was in April 2023, and since then I have attended almost all that have been offered.
Q: Do you remember your first workshop?
A: Yes, I remember it very well. The first workshop was on “Comprehensive Reading Strategies in the Classroom.” At first, I felt nervous because I did not know what to expect, but I was surprised at how practical it was. It was not complicated theory, but simple activities I could apply immediately. I left motivated and eager to try them with my students.
Q: You’ve continued to attend these workshops regularly. What keeps you coming back for more?
A: Each workshop provides something new. I also appreciate that we are not only given knowledge, but also spaces to share experiences with other teachers, which makes me feel supported in the process.
Q: What do you consider the most valuable aspect of these workshops?
A: Everything I learn is adapted to my reality at school. These are not distant methods, but tools I can apply with the resources I have. For example, I now use read-aloud activities with guided questions, and I have noticed that my students are more encouraged to participate and better understand what they read.
Q: How are you using what you learn in the classroom? Can you provide an example?
A: In one workshop, we learned to use “graphic organizers” to support reading comprehension. I was very excited because it was a visual tool I could easily create with paper and colors. When applied in my sixth-grade class, we used a concept map after reading a story. The students identified the characters, beginning, middle, and ending. I noticed that even students who struggled to understand could participate because the visual tool helped them organize their thoughts. It was very rewarding to see them explain the story in their own words.
Thank you, Ana María, for sharing your experience with us!
Your support helps provide the programming that helps teachers like Ana María andchanges the future for Guatemala children. Donate today. https://glxi.org/donate
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