As the new kid on the block, I’ve been asked to give a report on my impressions of the SVN conference. Firstly, it was a real pleasure to spend two days with such a varied and interesting bunch of people, each one with a different story of teaching career/countries served. What great conversations were had at every meal table! (Good food too!)
I found the Bible studies inspiring…Bob was a master storyteller who unpacked so many layers of meaning from well known Bible stories. I learnt many new things! Dave and Anne’s seminars were challenging as we looked at the criticisms which are often made about short term mission. However often we travel, we can always improve our cultural sensitivity and therefore achieve better outcomes in our work.
The fact that these leaders were talking and sharing from their own experience of teaching overseas in challenging circumstances meant that their words were full of conviction. I found their advice to be relevant and grounded. The whole group seemed to desire to share ideas so that everyone could improve…all in a non-competitive setting.
I was slightly disappointed with the ICT talk as it only seemed relevant to SVN teachers working in more developed countries. The Zambian schools I worked with last year would have given three cheers for a light bulb, let alone a personalised online curriculum! I had hoped to hear of innovative ICT schemes such as the use of Kindles, rather than textbooks, being used in Ghana, for instance.
I now understand the links between SVN and their mission partners a little more!
Overall, a great experience in a comfortable centre…thank you to everyone who made me feel welcome.
Janet King
I found the Bible studies inspiring…Bob was a master storyteller who unpacked so many layers of meaning from well known Bible stories. I learnt many new things! Dave and Anne’s seminars were challenging as we looked at the criticisms which are often made about short term mission. However often we travel, we can always improve our cultural sensitivity and therefore achieve better outcomes in our work.
The fact that these leaders were talking and sharing from their own experience of teaching overseas in challenging circumstances meant that their words were full of conviction. I found their advice to be relevant and grounded. The whole group seemed to desire to share ideas so that everyone could improve…all in a non-competitive setting.
I was slightly disappointed with the ICT talk as it only seemed relevant to SVN teachers working in more developed countries. The Zambian schools I worked with last year would have given three cheers for a light bulb, let alone a personalised online curriculum! I had hoped to hear of innovative ICT schemes such as the use of Kindles, rather than textbooks, being used in Ghana, for instance.
I now understand the links between SVN and their mission partners a little more!
Overall, a great experience in a comfortable centre…thank you to everyone who made me feel welcome.
Janet King
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