Κολέγιο CITY College
|
News
The English Studies Department of the International Faculty participates in ELTAM Conference
Ms Margarita Kosior, lecturer of the English Studies Department, and Ms Despoina Sarantidou, graduate of the BA (Hons) in English Language and Linguistics delivered a presentation titled “Designing Teaching Materials to Confront Modern Day Slavery” at the one-day conference “All Teachers are Materials Writers”, organised by ELTAM and MaWSIG on 30th September 2017 in Skopje. During the session, Ms Kosior and Ms Sarantidou presented a project assigned and completed in cooperation with The NO Project within the scope of the course on Evaluation and Design of Teaching Materials during the academic year 2016-17, with the aim of empowering other educators to produce teaching materials on the topic of modern-day slavery. The session, which comprised three parts, was well received. It started with an introduction to facts on the topic of modern-day slavery and with a brief presentation of The NO Project, an award-winning, global, anti-slavery educational campaign which raises youth awareness on human trafficking and modern day slavery, addressing crimes such as commercial sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, but also forced labour involved in the production of our daily products, such as chocolate, tea or coffee. At this stage, the nature of the collaboration between the English Studies Department and The NO Project was also explained. For the purpose of the assignment in the Evaluation and Design of Teaching Materials unit, students were asked to design a 50-minute lesson for students aged 16+ on the topic of human trafficking and with the aim to raise awareness of the crime of modern-day slavery. The best sample of student work would be uploaded to The NO Project website. The second part was devoted to the description of the project. During this stage, Ms Sarantidou described the process of creating her lesson that focuses on commercial sexual exploitation. The presentation finished with some recommendations for those who want to become The NO Project ambassadors by creating and contributing their own teaching materials to the cause. Ms Kosior and Ms Sarantidou were invited to join a panel discussion held at the end of the conference where they replied to questions regarding their session, but also related to materials design and ELT in general.
02/10/2017
Dr Patsala's interview features in the Autumn issue of ELTeaser!
Dr Paschalia Patsala, Head of our English Studies Dept., discusses the response of Higher Education to emergent social issues in her interview in ELTeaser, the newsletter of TESOL Macedonica-Thrace, Northern Greece. Focusing on bridging the gap between University and the needs and expectations of Society, Dr Patsala highlights the significance of 'Engaged Learning' in the service of the local community. In the words of Dr Patsala: "Adopting a Public Engagement strategy can make a difference and provide a creative response to social issues. ‘Engaged learning’ attracts a lot of attention nowadays in Higher Education as it serves a great number of purposes, including challenging the students to apply what they have been taught in the classroom, broadening the horizons of both students and outside ‘partners,’ sharing knowledge, and building strong relationships between the University and its surrounding communities. After all, teaching a foreign language to a vulnerable population can have a massive impact by drawing our attention to significant contemporary or social topics, finding new approaches to foreign language teaching, or simply brightening people’s lives..." Read Dr Patsala's full interview to Ms. Theologidou, Editor-in-chief (download PDF):
21/09/2017
Authors’ Insights to the Art and Craft of Writing: An Open Seminar offered by the English Studies Department
With the Spring semester coming to an end, the English Studies Department was proud to host its final Personal and Professional Development seminar for the 2016-17 Academic year on Tuesday, 30th May, titled: Η Τέχνη της Γραφής: Εξομολογήσεις Τριών Συγγραφέων [Authors’ Insights to the Art and Craft of Writing] thus ending the event series in a creative and literary atmosphere. The published authors and guest speakers that were invited are: Mr. Vassilis Moschis, Ms. Eva Pavlidou and Mr. Petros Golitsis who accepted our invitation to share their writing as well as publishing experiences. The event took the form of a panel, and was coordinated by Ms. Cathy Marazi, Lecturer in the English Studies Department. In the first part of the event, each author presented his/her writing experience and craft. Beginning with Mr. Vassilis Moschis, audience members were exposed to areas of fiction writing, story development, character development and the various pleasures but also difficulties that it entails. Mr Moschis confirmed that reading as much as possible is necessary, hard work and dedication is essential but, more importantly, knowing why one is writing–for the art of writing, or for “show”–will make all the difference. Ms. Eva Pavlidou introduced the art of poetry writing and how human emotions and experiences can be captured through this literary type. In a heartfelt, honest and revealing insight, Ms Pavlidou explained how poetry writing can even turn into an “addiction” assisting one in the matter of expression, self-reflection and self-healing. She herself characterized poetry as “yet another vital organ that can keep one alive” thus touching upon the magic that is poetry and that is literature. In spite of her difficult journey, Ms Pavlidou poses as a source of inspiration for those who are afraid to pursue the art and craft of writing. Last but not least, Mr. Petros Golitsis, Lecturer in the Business and Administration Department, presented his extensive literary background and brought the matter of publishing–publication houses and journals–to the fore. Gracing us with some extracts from his published poems, he then proceeded to give an overview of his publication journey, how difficult and strenuous it may be, but also where it can take an author and how it can spread one’s voice and ideas to other countries and other cultures. In the second part of the event an interesting discussion followed, which made evident that one’s interests and passions need not be limited. Depending on one’s preferences, exposure and background, styles of writing may differ, genre choices vary and the actual writing process may ultimately be a long, lonely road or one filled with adventure and revelations. The Head of the English Studies Department, Dr. Paschalia Patsala, thanked both authors and audience members for their insights, their questions, as well as the fruitful exchange that followed. Though classes are almost over and the exam period is looming, this event was a great opportunity to consider sources of inspiration and creativity once study obligations have come to end. What is more, the event opened prospective doors of inquiry for those either interested in reading and even engaging in the art and craft of writing.
31/05/2017
Walls: Us and Them, A one-act play by David Campton
Tuesday, 16 May 2017 FREE ADMISSION Online Participation Form Join and share! Information: amarazi@citycollege.sheffield.eu T: 2310 224421
09/05/2017
Randstad seminar on job interview techniques
Thuesday, 9 May 2017
08/05/2017
Dr Paschalia Patsala Joins the BAC Higher Education Focus Group
The British Accreditation Council (BAC) held its 1st Higher Education Focus Group meeting at its head office in Central London on Monday, 27 March, 2017. Significant discussions were held concerning the Quality Assurance standards of Higher Education (HE) in the UK and internationally. Dr Paschalia Patsala was invited to join the Focus Group as a representative of HE Institutions overseas due to her experience in BAC Accreditation Audits, having administered and taught in Programmes of three different UK Universities. The Focus Group Members have been directly appointed by BAC and consist of two Senior Inspectors (Dr Jeff Butel and Dr Peter Findlay), four representatives from Higher Education Institutions (Dr Frances Robinson from the University of Buckingham, Dr Judith Webster from the Imperial College London, Dr Paschalia Patsala from the University of Sheffield International Faculty, CITY College, and Ms. Pam Tatlow from MillionPlus), as well as one student representative (Ms. Bella Weil). The meeting was chaired by Paul Fear, BAC Chief Executive, and its role was to provide feedback on updated Higher Education standards against which Institutions who seek accreditation will be inspected and judged. Held in a very productive atmosphere, BAC Staff and Attendees were introduced to BAC as well as the focus group objectives and outcomes. Interested parties were made aware of BAC Standards and their implementation, and hands-on-practice sessions included the consideration of existing standards, potential changes as well as the next steps to be taken. Dr. Patsala, who feels fortunate participating in this and forthcoming meetings, explained that the responsibilities of the Higher Education focus group are to hold an advisory role to ensure standards are met, and to provide feedback as well as recommendations aiming towards higher standards. Overall, the 1st meeting indicated that quality and excellence constitute a continuous, collaborative, arduous journey.
10/04/2017
“SURE Showcase 2017”: An event organised by students for students!
February 28th marked not only the beginning of the Spring semester but also the first Spring Personal and Professional Development seminar offered by the International Faculty CITY College Research Club in collaboration with the English Studies Department. What is most encouraging and warrants applause is that this Open Seminar titled “SURE Showcase 2017” exhibited the active engagement of our students in research projects; its ultimate aim was to raise awareness towards the SURE Scheme and share their experience of research opportunities with fellow students and staff members. The presenters of the Showcase include Ms. Maria Gourmou, Level-3 student of the English Studies Department and Team Leader of Research Club, Mr. Arlind Avdullahi, Level-3 student of the Computer Science Department, as well as the Vice-Principal of Learning and Teaching, Prof. Petros Kefalas and the Head of the English Studies Department, Dr Paschalia Patsala. Prof. Kefalas opened the seminar series by providing an overview of and the latest developments of the SURE Scheme as well as the differences between SURE: Sheffield Undergraduate Research Experience and the SURE International Faculty Exchange, highlighting how both pose as incredible opportunities for students to conduct research in areas and topics of their interest. Ms. Gourmou then proceeded by offering concise information and explanations of what the SURE Scheme is, what dates interested parties need to pay attention to, an outline of the steps one needs to follow in order to apply. Both she and Mr. Avdullahi shared their research experiences, emphasising how the process has its challenges and some moments of frustration but overall, the experience as a whole was a rewarding one and one that both feel has prepared them for more extensive research projects. In addition to sharing their experience, the Showcase also posed as an opportunity to exhibit the students’ Poster Dissemination Projects. Closing the seminar, Dr Patsala provided her account of and experience of the SURE Scheme as a Supervisor, focusing on the benefits of student-supervisor collaboration, and highlighting how (through opportunities such as this) students are contributing to actual research from a very early stage in their academic studies. Suffice to say, the opportunity should not be missed! As Maria Gourmou stated, “The SURE project was an amazing experience that offered me so much knowledge in my field of studies. I discovered my passion for research and identified the path that I want to follow after graduation. It is definitely a worthwhile experience and I urge all students to try it out!”
31/03/2017
Ms. Sachpazian presents on Lesson Planning in the ‘ELT Methodology for All’ Seminar Series
Ms. Maria-Araxi Sachpazian, Managing Director of ‘Input on Education’ and Chair of TESOL Macedonia-Thrace N. Greece, graciously offered her seminar titled: “Lesson Planning for Creative Teaching: The what and the how” hosted by the English Studies Department on 21 March, 2017. Teaching, despite what many may think, is simultaneously a learning process! Yes, indeed, teachers are also “students” preparing for their classes, attending seminars and reading up on the latest research publications relevant to their discipline. And, contrary to some opinions, ELT teachers – though appearing to teach the same thing over and over – seek out self-development seminars to assist, guide and inspire them and their teaching methodology. In an informative, as well as interactive forum, with a pinch of her unique, energetic personality Ms Sachpazian posed and provided insightful guidance to questions such as: How are lessons "crafted"? How much preparation has to go into them? How can teachers plan lessons efficiently, effectively without spending hours or becoming exhausted? Overall, the seminar aimed at pointing out that planning is an integral part of the kind of pedagogical deliberation which should be creative and cater for individual needs. Ms Sachpazian provided an in-depth account of how to design balanced lessons, how to offer and why providing stimuli to learners with different needs and different learning styles is significant and how to reflect on our teaching practices so as to continue to improve our lessons. In a seminar coupled with activities for audience members, Ms Sachpazian examined the areas of pedagogical deliberation, the idea and context of learning, what a lesson plan is and what it can—or should contain, the value of aims and goals to steer us along the way, the art of planning, and reflective teaching, a process of invaluable assistance to self-development. Lesson planning is an art, a craft that requires consistent cultivation; while there are many traps and challenges, to not question, ponder, discuss and be informed is to be stagnant! Thus, we teachers are always in the process of learning to be better, so that we may teach better!
30/03/2017
Seminar by Prof. Kefalas on Research Publication Techniques
Higher Education can be a wonderful but also challenging endeavor. As a result, it is necessary for students of all levels and disciplines to be aware and prepared. Within the context of the University of Sheffield and the International Faculty, CITY College, academics is closely coupled with research. Our future graduates are not only professionals in their area of expertise but also researchers capable of contributing to academics and to society. Thus, it is with an eye towards fostering such mentalities and capacities that a special lecture was hosted by the English Studies Department on 14 March, 2017 titled: “Tips and Techniques to Publish your Research.” The Vice Principal for Learning and Teaching, and Guest Speaker of the seminar, Professor Petros Kefalas commenced the seminar with an interactive poll asking audience members what they think ‘research’ is. Following up on responses, Prof. Kefalas then proceeded towards the aim of the seminar, namely the discussion of tips and techniques on how UG, PGT students and PhD candidates can be successful in publishing papers. An informative, step-by-step outline of the process and cycle of publishing was provided in addition to the numerous decisions and factors one ought to consider and take into account. As the seminar was not discipline specific, examples from various disciplines ranging from science to humanities were viewed. A high focus fell on the issues inexperienced researchers tend to neglect. To engage the audience even more, Prof. Kefalas posed a hypothetical scenario with specific basic questions researchers need to take into account. Members of the audience were encouraged to work in small groups and share their ‘hypothetical’ scenarios which further contributed towards discussion, insights as well as clarifications thus highlighting the challenges, rewards of research, opportunities of publication but more importantly the mentality of setting goals and planning. Overall, Prof. Kefalas effectively raised awareness towards the cycle and process of publishing one’s research but simultaneously exemplified how the skills necessary to tackle the challenges and obstacles of such a process are already in effect for students of Higher Education from the very start of their academic journey. Therefore, not only are students presented with the path of researcher, they are also given the reflective opportunity to view the skills and knowledge they are acquiring put into potential application in yet another fruitful context where they too can explore their interests and contribute.
16/03/2017
ELT Methodology Seminar: 'Lesson Planning for Creative Teaching'
Tuesday, 21 March 2017 FREE ENTRANCE Seminar Overview (PDF) Online Participation Form Join and share! Information: T: +30 2310 224421 E: amarazi@citycollege.sheffield.eu
14/03/2017
'Tips and Techniques to Publish your Research' by Prof. Kefalas
Tuesday, 14 March 2017 Summary Summary During the pursue for a higher degree, students often face the challenge to publish their work in workshops, conferences and journals. The aim of this seminar is to discuss tips and techniques on how UG, PGT students and PhD candidates can be successful on publishing papers. We will go through the cycle for publishing and the numerous decisions that need to be taken. The seminar will not be discipline specific but will focus on issues that an inexperienced researcher tend to neglect, such as suitability of work to fora, scientific context, contribution and self-evaluation, clarity, structure, presentation, guidelines, to name a few. During the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to engage in discussing their views on publishable research of scientific papers. Information: T: +30 2310 224421 E: amarazi@citycollege.sheffield.eu
10/03/2017
English Studies Department Autumn Semester Exam Boards and Pita Cutting
The end of every semester, at least for Staff and Faculty, is signaled by the Exam Board. The English Studies Department held its Exam Boards on February 21st, thus indicating the closure of the Autumn Semester. Overall, the academic staff was satisfied with performance of cohorts, reflecting at the same time on items that could be improved even more for the more elevated engagement of students. The Exam Board also posed as a great opportunity for the English Studies Dept New Year Pita-cutting event. Having gathered all faculty and staff together, each received his/her pita-piece pending the lucky coin. This year turned out to be the Head of the English Studies Department, Dr. Paschalia Patsala’s lucky year, as the coveted coin fell to her! The Exam Board and Pita cutting event ended on positive and warm notes with heartfelt wishes for strength and revitalised energy for the upcoming Spring Semester. We would thus like to wish all faculty, staff and students warm wishes for a Great Spring Semester!
24/02/2017
  8 from 13   |
