On the 23rd of July 2024, MI Training College, Ponnani, hosted an insightful workshop titled “Puppetry for Transformative Teaching,” led by the accomplished puppeteer Prasanth Kodiyathur. This workshop was a significant component of the Deeksharamb Student Induction Programme, held on the second day of the programme.
Objectives and Relevance
The primary objective of the workshop was to introduce students to the innovative use of puppetry as an educational tool. Puppetry, a traditional art form, was presented as a medium that can transform conventional teaching methods, making lessons more engaging and effective. The workshop highlighted how puppetry can be used to explain complex concepts, capture students’ attention, and foster a creative learning environment.
Workshop Highlights
Prasanth Kodiyathur began the session with an introduction to the history and cultural significance of puppetry. He then moved on to demonstrate various puppetry techniques, showcasing different types of puppets such as hand puppets, shadow puppets, and string puppets. Each demonstration was accompanied by practical examples of how these puppets could be utilized in a classroom setting to simplify and illustrate educational content.
Interactive Sessions
The workshop was highly interactive, with participants being encouraged to create their own puppets using simple materials. Prasanth guided the students through the process of puppet-making, emphasizing the importance of creativity and resourcefulness. Students were then given the opportunity to practice performing with their puppets, learning how to convey emotions, narratives, and lessons effectively.
Educational Impact
Throughout the session, Prasanth stressed the role of puppetry in enhancing communication between teachers and students. He illustrated how puppetry can break down barriers, making it easier for students to grasp difficult subjects. The workshop also covered the psychological benefits of puppetry, such as building confidence and encouraging students to express themselves more freely.
Feedback and Reflections
The workshop was well-received by the participants, who found the experience both enjoyable and enlightening. Many students expressed their interest in incorporating puppetry into their future teaching methods. The workshop concluded with a discussion on the challenges and possibilities of integrating puppetry into modern educational practices.
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Conclusion
The “Puppetry for Transformative Teaching” workshop by Prasanth Kodiyathur was a resounding success, providing the students of MI Training College with innovative strategies to enhance their teaching. It served as a reminder that education can be as much about creativity and engagement as it is about content, and that tools like puppetry can play a pivotal role in making learning a more enriching experience.
