ELT Program Overview
Ashish Thapa
The ELT Program has been a transformative initiative, aiming to make English learning more engaging, interactive, and student-centered. Through innovative teaching methods, fun activities, and creative approaches, the program has positively impacted both students and teachers, fostering an enjoyable and confidence-boosting learning environment.
1. Experience Working with Social Lab
Being an ELT Fellow with Social Lab has been an incredible journey of growth and impact. From the beginning, Social Lab encouraged creativity, providing an open and supportive environment for experimenting with engaging teaching techniques. Unlike traditional classrooms, we had the freedom to introduce interactive games, storytelling, and participatory learning strategies tailored to students’ needs.
However, challenges such as school schedules, logistical constraints, and resistance to non-traditional methods required adaptability and persistence. Thanks to Social Lab’s guidance, reflection sessions, and support, overcoming these hurdles became a learning experience, making the program more impactful.
2. Experience Working with Saraswoti & Balsudhar Public Schools
The Positive Aspects:
● Student Enthusiasm: Students at both schools showed immense eagerness to learn, bringing excitement and energy into every session.
● Impact of Fun Learning: The introduction of storytelling, music, games, and group activities made learning enjoyable and meaningful.
● Supportive Teachers: Many teachers were open to new teaching methods and actively participated in making the learning experience better for students.
Areas for Improvement:
● Resource Availability: While the schools made the best use of available resources, having additional teaching materials and designated learning spaces could further enhance student engagement.
● Language Confidence: Some students were initially hesitant to speak in English, but with continued encouragement and practice, they gradually became more confident.
● Scheduling Adjustments: Integrating interactive sessions within the existing school structure required some flexibility, but with support from teachers and school staff, we can find ways to make it work.
3. Before & After: Student Progress through ELT
Before ELT Intervention:
● Many students were shy and hesitant to speak in English.
● Learning was more focused on memorization rather than interaction
● English was often perceived as a difficult and less engaging subject.
After ELT Intervention:
● Students became more confident in speaking, even if they made mistakes.
● Classroom participation increased, with students actively engaging in discussions and activities.
● English became a fun and engaging subject through interactive methods.
● Activities like Color Bingo, Storytelling, Role-Play, and Simon Says improved listening, speaking, and teamwork skills.
4. How ELT Made Saraswoti & Balsudhar Schools Stand Out
Unlike many public schools in Nepal, these schools experienced:
● A Shift to Fun Learning: Moving beyond textbook-based learning to games, role-playing, and storytelling.
● Higher Student Engagement: Encouraging students to take part actively rather than just listening passively.
● Stronger Speaking & Confidence-Building: While most public schools focus on writing, ELT prioritized verbal communication skills.
● Sustainability Through Teacher Training: Teachers adopted ELT techniques, ensuring long-term impact.
5. Personal Learnings from ELT Experience
● Patience is key – Change is gradual but rewarding.
● Every child has potential – Even underprivileged students shine when given the right opportunities.
● Joyful learning is powerful – Interactive teaching methods spark curiosity and motivation.
● Small efforts create lasting impact – A simple storytelling session can transform a child’s confidence.
Final Thoughts
The ELT Program has been a life-changing experience for both students and educators. Seeing students grow in confidence, creativity, and enthusiasm for learning has been the greatest reward. If programs like ELT continue to expand, Nepal’s public schools will nurture a brighter, more capable generation of students.
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