Innovative Approaches to Language Learning
Course overview
This immersive 5-day course is designed to equip language teachers with innovative strategies and digital tools to create engaging and interactive learning experiences that resonate with today’s learners. Participants will explore effective methods for redesigning the classroom experience, enhancing foreign language teaching, and fostering a collaborative and engaging learning environment.
The course will delve into the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education, providing participants with the necessary knowledge to understand and effectively utilize AI tools such as ChatGPT. Participants will learn how to leverage these tools to prepare lessons more efficiently, generate new ideas, and create interactive and engaging classroom activities.
Emphasis will be placed on developing digital literacy and exploring various digital tools for foreign language teaching, including tools for formative assessment, game-based learning, and collaborative technologies. Participants will learn how to design and implement lessons tailored to specific classroom needs, employing multimodal approaches such as scavenger hunts to enhance student engagement.
The course will also explore the power of storytelling techniques in foreign language teaching, promoting fluency, collaboration, and cultural awareness. Participants will learn how to effectively integrate drama activities into their lessons, fostering an immersive and engaging learning experience for students.
To enhance the learning experience and provide a cultural context, the course will incorporate a guided cultural visit within Čakovec and Međimurje County. This visit will allow participants to explore local heritage sites, cultural institutions, or eco-conscious organizations, drawing inspiration and practical examples for integrating cultural elements and sustainable practices into their language teaching methodologies.
Tentative schedule:
Day 1: Introduction to innovative language teaching
Day 2: Integrating artificial intelligence and redesigning the classroom experience
Day 3: Digital tools and cultural exploration
Day 4: Storytelling and experiential learning
Day 5: Project-based learning and course wrap-up
The classes typically run from 9 in the morning to 2 in the afternoon, with the afternoon and evening reserved for self-reflection and individual study. However, the course schedule may be adjusted to accommodate the preferences of the participants and the availability of instructors or external learning locations. Participants will receive the finalized schedule well in advance, allowing ample time for preparation and planning.
Learning outcomes:
The participants will be able to: