CSU Collaborates with AFTA thru its Balikturo Project

The Caraga State University College of Education collaborated with the Filipino American Teachers of America (AFTA) Incorporated through a project called Balikturo, which literally translates to “Return to teach”.

Balikturo is a missionary project of the Association of Fil-Am Teachers of America (AFTA) Inc. The mission brings U.S. based Filipino teachers to the Philippines to share and exchange with their Philippine counterpart valuable information, knowledge, experience, and latest developments in different areas of teaching. Balikturo aims to share knowledge and best practices in pedagogy, and Initiate global collaboration among teachers to benefit the school children.

The Balikturo activities began on August 5, 2018 through a community immersion of the AFTA members at Pianing Elementary School, Barangay Pianing, Butuan City which is comprised of about 60% Manobo. CSU CEd chose barangay Pianing for its adopt a school program and have been providing them with Extension services.

The Balikturo formal program was on August 6, 2018 with CSU President, Dr. Anthony M. Penaso leading the CSU family in welcoming the AFTA members led by Dr. Roxanne A. Cajigas, AFTA President, AFTA Executive Vice President, Dr. Juanito C.Hingpis, and other AFTA members, Ms. Luz DaraValconcha and Kristian R. Penas.

College of Education Dean, Dr. Miraluna L. Herrera with the CEd faculty were in full force in receiving the AFTA group. Also present was the Vice President for Research and Extension, Dr. Rowena P. Varela. Participants to the seminar-workshop are select faculty from the Department of Education, other private schools, and CEd future educators.

Seminar topics include: Using Visible Strategies to Engage Students in Critical Thinking and Discussion, Exploring Literacy Strategies Across Content Areas Using the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, STEAM Inquiry Process: An Emerging Practice, Project Based Learning Using STEAM Application, and Classroom Management: Sharing What Works in the Classroom. The seminar-workshop and sharing commenced through an Educational Trip to Britania, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur.