THE WRITER (holding up a gift) with fellow Asian delegates
In 2011, I attended the awarding ceremony for the Microsoft Innovative Teacher Leadership Award (Itla), a prestigious competition among innovative educators in the country conducted by Microsoft Philippines.
The great projects of the finalists were so inspiring and learning that the winners would represent the country at the Global Forum was motivating.
I started loving the education programs of Microsoft, dreaming that someday I too would be able to travel abroad to represent my beloved country.
After striving for five years to make my dreams come true, Microsoft Philippines tapped me to represent our country in the recent Global Educator Exchange (E2) in Budapest, Hungary. Reaching this goal was not as easy as ABC. I failed thrice before I finally made it.
I became a finalist of Itla 7 in 2012. I again submitted my Learning Activity (LA) in 2013 and 2014 but also failed. My yearly failure motivated me to dream more and do more.
Finally, Microsoft Philippines recognized my efforts in using technology in my classroom and gave me the chance to attend E2 this year.
#Hacktheclassroom
When I arrived in Corinthia Hotel in Budapest, I was overwhelmed to meet Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert (MIE Expert) friends from different countries like Vietnam, Thailand and Finland, who shared my passion and love for education and with whom I have collaborated and learned with via online global community for almost two years.
The three-day E2 gave me the opportunity to be more innovative, as I attended different breakout sessions. Working in the E2 Group Challenge was really a life-changing experience.
Working with my group to hack the classroom made me realize that different races and languages were not hindrances to achieving a goal.
Hearing the keynote speech of Anthony Salcito, vice president of the Worldwide of
Microsoft in Education, and introductions to and demonstrations of new information and communication technology (ICT) tools made me more passionate and fearless in using technology in the classroom.
I was surprised that my Learning Activity (LA), “Skype is the Limit,” for the Learning Marketplace by different Skype Master Teachers was appreciated. Different Skype Master Teachers wanted to see how I used Skype in the classroom.
What made that moment even more special was when Salcito asked me to share with him my LA. It was truly unforgettable as it was also my birthday.
I came home with a lot of new knowledge and with the awesome experiences I shared with the other MIEs. But my journey to being an innovative educator did not end at the forum. It inspired me to dream of even bigger things so I can do more for my students and my country.
I continue collaborating with different educators around the world. Our MIE Experts E-Book was officially published a few days ago. The other MIE Experts and Skype Master Teachers are communicating and planning projects with me.
The writer teaches English at Dasmariñas East National High School. She is a Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert.