Frequently Asked Questions
We have tried to answer some of the most common questions we get about 'Teachers Telling Tales' here. If your question is not answered, feel free to write to us.
Email - ankitwanders@gmail.com
Phone (WhatsApp)- +91 9769576038
Instagram/Linked-in - @ankittellsstories
I feel conscious in public speaking. I have never told a story before. Can I apply?
Yes please. We strongly encourage people who feel inhibited, reluctant or shy in speaking publicly to try this. The workshops would be a safe space for you to be in your comfort zone and expand it gradually.
I don't teach formally. Is it for me?
The course is open for anyone who loves stories.
We get teachers (aspiring, in-service) of all grades, subjects, and experience levels, working in any public or private institutions (including teachers who work in universities, independently, or in tuitions, coaching centers).
Along with teachers and educators, 33% of our learners come from all walks to life (entrepreneurs, artists, students, homemakers, elders, professionals).
Can I tell stories in my language?
Yes. Facilitator speaks English and Hindi, but you are free to practice and tell stories in any language of your choice.
Are the workshops available as videos for self paced learning?
No. The nature of this learning experience requires people to be active participants during the workshops. It is the live nature and community building aspect of the workshops which make this offering very immersive. Hence, no recordings as of now.
Which batch should I apply in?
There are multiple batches (open to all) organised according to language of facilitation - Hindi and English.
I am not into language teaching, literature or performing arts. Is this for me?
Absolutely, yes. The scope of using stories is not limited to people who are only into literature or performing arts. In the past more than half of our teachers have come from Science, Mathemathics, Social Science, and Humanities. Storytelling has relevance for teachers of all subjects.
I teach adolescents/college students. Can storytelling be used with them?
Yes. We choose the nature of stories and our way of storytelling based on the interest and maturity of our audience. Storytelling is often popularly imagined only for very young children, however, through our work, we have found adolescents and young people highly engaged with stories they can relate with.
What happens if I miss a session or parts of it due to personal reasons or technical issues?
We understand that in some circumstances, a person might miss some portions of the workshop. You are encouraged to catch up with learning from your peers and from session summaries.
Do you offer a certificate?
We believe storytelling is best demonstrated by your personality and not a certificate. However, we do provide a digital certificate on successful completion of workshop to acknowledge your effort and learning..
Is there a job placement or promotion with this workshop?
Simple answer is no. This workshop is not aimed to offer job placements or promotions. Storytelling does enable one to understand and express themselves better in social situations, which helps a person face interviews, group discussions or make public presentations. We have seen people grow personally and professionally in their knowledge, perspectives and skills.
Can you do these workshops for children in our school?
We believe teachers and parents/guardians are most invested in the lives of children. Children look up to teachers not only for scholarly knowledge, but to learn about life and how to make choices. So, while occasional experience of storytelling from media or storytelling practitioners is good, having a teacher tell and listen to their stories consistently have a much deeper influence. Also, as they say, a teacher influences about a thousand children in their lifetime. So, we prioritise working with teachers.
Would I be made to perform if I am not ready?
You would never be forced to perform or speak in group unless you feel like and choose to. We take a gradual approach of working with pairs, in smalls groups, then performing within groups before you perform publicly. So the journey is gradual and at a pace of your comfort.
How light/heavy are the workshops?
The workshops are designed considering the workload of working teachers and students. Two hours every week typically becomes a space where you feel a sense of belonging, companionship with peers and a sense of personal and professional growth.. Hence, it feel light. But this is not a spa, and rather a gym. You grow as much as you practice.
Emotionally, stories can be therapeutic and cathartic. However, please note that this learning experience is neither a therapy, nor an alternative to therapy.
If stories are free, why are you charging a fee?
Yes, stories are free and that's how they should be. However, the process of mentoring and teaching requires human effort in training rigorously, preparing curriculum, practicing pedagogy, and managing the multiple logistical needs.
Fee serves as a fair wage and livelihood.
I have a certification/ training in storytelling. Can I teach this course?
We don’t look for certifications when considering our facilitators. We currently have a small group of supporting facilitators who have qualifications/ experience in teaching, teacher education, facilitation skills along with storytelling. If you have similar experiences, please write to us.