The English Language Teaching Department at Tishk International University (TIU) successfully convened the 5th International Workshop on Education: New Trends and Prospects (IWENTP) 2024 on October 23rd, 2024. Under the theme “Digital Well-being: Empowering Educators and Learners to Promote Mindful Practices in Higher Education,” the event brought together a distinguished gathering of educators and scholars to explore strategies for integrating mindful digital practices into learning environments.

Workshop Presenters and Structure

The workshop featured insightful presentations from distinguished educators, including:

  • Ms. Fatima Almoufridji from Leiden University, Netherlands
  • Dr. Meretguly Gurbanov from Dowletmammet Azady Turkmen National Institute of World Languages
  • Mr. Reman Sabah Meena from ELT-TIU Erbil

The workshop was structured into three distinct themes. The first theme was presented in Main Hall 302, offering a comprehensive introduction to digital well-being principles, challenges, and interventions. This session aimed to spark conversations around the role of educators in promoting healthier digital habits. Participants were then distributed into five breakout sessions for in-depth discussions, hands-on activities, and collaborative brainstorming.

Case Studies and Practical Activities

A significant component of the workshop involved examining case studies with ethical dilemmas related to digital content, including issues of privacy and academic integrity. These discussions were designed to equip educators with the skills to navigate complex ethical situations.

A unique and highly engaging feature of the workshop was the “digital detox” activity. Participants were asked to identify a digital tool or instructional method prone to overuse and then brainstorm practical strategies to “detox” or balance its usage effectively in the classroom. This interactive approach ensured that attendees left with practical solutions for integrating mindful practices into their respective educational settings.

Conclusion

The IWENTP 2024 workshop underscored the importance of digital well-being in today’s rapidly evolving academic landscape. By empowering educators and learners to adopt intentional practices, the event aims to enhance student engagement and mental well-being through mindful technology use. The workshop concluded with a summary of the solutions proposed by different groups, which will contribute to future research and the development of best practices in higher education.

Keywords: Tishk International University, Faculty of Education, English Language Teaching, Discussion, Group Picture, Team Work, International Workshop, New Trends and Prospects, Student Engagement Strategies, Digital Well-being in Higher Education, Participants, Higher Education, Education, Collaboration, Academic Achievement, Digital Transformation, Innovation