I learned a lot and was encouraged as a language teacher and as a language learner. I enjoyed meeting people who were from all around the world working in Asia. The best nugget for me was the session on how the host culture impacts language learning. It was a privilege to have my former Hindi teacher there to be a part of the discussion. I think we came up with good solutions on how to address the great clash of self-directed learning with the traditional authoritarian rote educational system. We walked away having identified the strengths and weaknesses of both and agreeing on where and when to let things be and where and when to push for change. This discussion alone will help me improve my interactions and work with Indian schools as well as my approach to language learning. I felt affirmed in my growing understanding of the education system while still acknowledging the vast amount I still need to understand.
Here are some fun pics from the hotel:
window view
local transport-tuk tuk
Just in case you weren't sure how to use the bathtub=)
