Embracing the digital age: enhancing language teaching methods

Teaching languages in the 21st century has become a rapidly evolving process. With the advent of new technologies and Artificial Intelligence, teachers now have a world of possibilities to explore and implement in their classrooms. Using these new tools can offer significant advantages to students in language learning. These innovative apps and AI tools can provide concrete support to teachers, enabling them to create more effective and engaging teaching methods for both foreign and native languages. As digital skills continue to gain prominence in education, students remain motivated, engaged, and enthusiastic about learning through digital platforms. Incorporating technology into language learning allows students to actively participate in the learning process. 
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The latest edition of the course “Teaching languages in the digital era: the best apps, AI tools and ICT solutions for learning languages​” took place in Palermo from 17/03/2024 to 23/03/2024. The participants came from all across Europe, with Kseniia from Docemus Privatschulen GmbH in Germany, Signe from Tallinn Folk High School in Estonia, Malgorzata from Omnia in Finland, Tatjana and Bente from Briga AS in Norway and Maria Teresa from Pensionnat Saint-Joseph de Cluny in France.

Throughout this course, participants actively engaged in a multitude of practical activities aimed at providing hands-on experience with various digital tools. The group gained proficiency in integrating these tools into their teaching methodologies, enhancing their pedagogical approach.

​On the first day, the trainer introduced the course and highlighted the benefits of utilizing a virtual whiteboard in the classroom. Participants had the opportunity to practice collaborative tools for visual brainstorming, and web platforms designed for collaborative content sharing and organization among the group. As the course progressed, the group gained familiarity with tools for vocabulary testing and revision, interactive language quiz creation, matching pair exercises and grammar review. The group explored and practiced versatile digital platforms, and got to know how to deliver interactive presentations, facilitate revision sessions, conduct visual brainstorming for vocabulary review, and assess students through quizzes and collaborative activities.

Artificial Intelligence was the focus on the fourth day of the course. The group became acquainted with ChatGPT, gaining insights into the seven elements of a good prompt. They engaged in discussions surrounding the potential, advantages, and pitfalls of using AI tools without adequate knowledge. Additionally, participants explored other AI powered tools useful for teaching. 
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On the final day, the group gained familiarity with platforms that can be used for digital debates, video lessons, digital resources to gamify the classroom and foster critical thinking. These templates are versatile resources that can be utilized across different stages of the learning process and cater to students of all ages, and provide educators with the flexibility to engage students in a variety of activities that support their learning objectives. ​

Throughout the course, participants discovered various web platforms dedicated to creating language presentations and learning materials. They created multimedia contents and showcased their creations in a motivating and engaging environment. In addition to enhancing their creativity, participants gained confidence in working both independently and collaboratively by actively practicing with digital tools. The exchange of best practices among teachers from across Europe and cultural activities fostered a delightful multicultural atmosphere from start to finish.

Learning languages can indeed be challenging, but integrating technology into the classroom offers numerous advantages and possibilities. By sharpening their digital literacy skills, teachers can enhance language teaching and assessment, transforming ordinary lessons into immersive experiences that captivate students’ attention and facilitate deeper learning.

​As this experience came to an end, we want to express our gratitude to this week’s participants for their thoughtful contributions, enriching discussions, and unwavering enthusiasm. Well done! 

Discover more about this course here.