My thoughts to describe Communicative Language Teaching are that this approach involves learners to focus more on the meaning rather than the form of a second language. Teachers, like Savignon, lead their learners to take risks and speak in other than memorized patterns. I understand the importance of role plays and simulations have on more spontaneous communication between learners. This type of classroom interaction, even if guided by the instructor, becomes more realistic and meaningful for real life. This social aspect of communication through pair work and group work enables learners to be able think and speak on their feet. I really like the idea of classroom trips so that learners not only experience the language but also the culture. I think an important part of communication is listening (receptive) whether to a native speaker or not. For learning the writing skills (productive) I can see using pragmatic examples as ie. requesting a letter of reference. I found of interest in the article when mentioned the opportunities for computer-mediated communication(CMC) will increase dramatically in the years ahead. I look at our recent history and how social media has had such a profound influence in changing society.
I do have some concerns on how the competence in learning is measured and by what standards? I would also think that you need some form of grammar. I don't know if this learning should take place at a beginner stage or when learners have a stronger vocubulary?
Monday, 23 January 2012
Friday, 20 January 2012
Thinking About Theory
My name is Josanne. I am taking an on-line Teacher Certificate Program in English as a Second Language. The courses I will be taking are Thinking about Theory & Understanding the Language Skills. This blog has been created to jot down my thoughts and feelings regarding the material in these courses. Also this journal will help me track my progression in learning the teaching skills and theories. I believe in life-long learning and hope I can translate my reflections here into the classroom for teaching adults English as a second language in the future.
"Let ignorance talk as it will, learning has it's value." Jean de La Fontaine
As in the article "Principles of Adult Learning" by Stephen Lieb, I agree with the key principle that an effective instructor recognizes the value of adults prior experience in learning. Everyone brings some knowledge or insight to the table. I find when the tone in the classroom is respectful of everyone's life experiences learning takes place and not always necessarily from the teacher. I believe learning is to take chances and to try the unknown. I feel people learn better when they have the freedom to express themselves without the anxiety of making mistakes and appearing foolish to others. I can see how this could translate to an ESL class where fear or shyness of speaking with an accent could inhibit one's learning a language. I can see where it would be the role of the facilitator to remove such barriers in a classroom.
As a learner I am very goal-oriented and must feel the need that what I am learning has relevance. This applies to me both in my profession and on a personal level. For instance with this course I have a goal in mind, I would like to teach English abroad.
In my profession we are now learning how to use Blackberries on the job. The goal of the corporation is quite clear, that all employees learn this technology. The 1 day training session introduced employees to the technical procedures to be put in use. To assist with the learning we were given job aids. I learnt from the instructors and also fellow workers in the day session. However I learnt even more on my own following the job aids, because I was working more on my own pace. I even further transfered my learning on the job when with fellow colleagues, we continued the learning process through trial and error. It is relevant that I learn these skills for my profession and that I remain of value within the corporation.
"Let ignorance talk as it will, learning has it's value." Jean de La Fontaine
As in the article "Principles of Adult Learning" by Stephen Lieb, I agree with the key principle that an effective instructor recognizes the value of adults prior experience in learning. Everyone brings some knowledge or insight to the table. I find when the tone in the classroom is respectful of everyone's life experiences learning takes place and not always necessarily from the teacher. I believe learning is to take chances and to try the unknown. I feel people learn better when they have the freedom to express themselves without the anxiety of making mistakes and appearing foolish to others. I can see how this could translate to an ESL class where fear or shyness of speaking with an accent could inhibit one's learning a language. I can see where it would be the role of the facilitator to remove such barriers in a classroom.
As a learner I am very goal-oriented and must feel the need that what I am learning has relevance. This applies to me both in my profession and on a personal level. For instance with this course I have a goal in mind, I would like to teach English abroad.
In my profession we are now learning how to use Blackberries on the job. The goal of the corporation is quite clear, that all employees learn this technology. The 1 day training session introduced employees to the technical procedures to be put in use. To assist with the learning we were given job aids. I learnt from the instructors and also fellow workers in the day session. However I learnt even more on my own following the job aids, because I was working more on my own pace. I even further transfered my learning on the job when with fellow colleagues, we continued the learning process through trial and error. It is relevant that I learn these skills for my profession and that I remain of value within the corporation.
Friday, 13 January 2012
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