On May 11, 2024, Loyola PU College on Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore, hosted a Faculty Development Program (FDP) aimed at enriching the teaching faculty's pedagogical skills and introducing innovative educational strategies. The one-day event saw the active participation of 26 lecturers. The program was designed and delivered by Fr Olvin Veigas SJ, and it addressed contemporary educational needs through a series of focused sessions.
The program commenced with a session on Jesuit education, presented by Fr Olvin Veigas, SJ. He elaborated on the Jesuit educational paradigm, which emphasizes holistic development, critical thinking, and social justice. Fr Veigas discussed the historical context and core values of Jesuit education, highlighting its relevance and application in modern educational settings.
The second session focused on the essential teaching skills required for effective instruction in schools and colleges. Fr Veigas provided insights into innovative teaching methodologies, classroom management techniques, and the continuous professional development of teachers. The session included interactive discussions, allowing participants to share their experiences and learn from one another.
The final session introduced participants to the integration of AI in education. Fr Veigas demonstrated various AI applications that can be utilized in the classroom to enhance personalized learning, automate administrative tasks, and engage students more effectively. He provided practical examples and tools, encouraging educators to adopt AI technologies to improve teaching and learning outcomes.
Participants expressed high levels of satisfaction with the program, particularly appreciating the relevance and depth of the content and the expertise of the resource person. The practical demonstrations of AI applications and the emphasis on Jesuit educational values were especially well-received. Many participants requested further training sessions to continue building on the skills and knowledge acquired.