Shiv on Learning

The Vlang conference: or Future Language Learning Now: Innovative Applications and Methods for Language Training took place in Warsaw last week. by Jessica Driscoll 

The conference focused on new and innovative ways to learn languages and included presentations on virtual worlds, online classes using skype, games for language learning and talked about research into these methods of learning.

I presented Languagelab’s newest product, ‘Market Leader Live’. My main points were by simulating real business situations, stress and interactions with students from different countries, you can create a more real Business English experience that will prepare students for working internationally. The presentation also discussed the use of course books in a modern classroom and why simply digitising books is not enough to meet the needs of learners. Reading has become fragmented by the use of ebooks and mobile devices, so the linear method of working through a course book with a teacher in a time constrained atmosphere is not an ideal way of experiencing Business English online.

 If you can take a textbook and make it into a virtual experience which is rich in co-presence, real language in context and prepares students to be in the real situation you are on the right track to making a resource of the future.

I also took some footage of the local culture in Warsaw to share with you all….! Enjoy…

Jessie

(Source: languagelab.com)

Business English and Virtual worlds from #BESIG 

Vlog - TESOL France 2011: Me and @alaneng @TESOLFrance

Full Video: A Chat with Alison Goddard of The Economist

This is a video of an online event with Alison Goddard, Education Correspondent for The Economist, on Thursday 8 September.

Alison reports on schools and universities in Britain and worldwide. She is particularly interested in how different education systems function, and the role of education in economic growth and social mobility. 

Alison has worked for other high profile publications including The Times Higher Education Supplement and for New Scientist as a freelance journalist. She has a degree in physics and another in politics, philosophy and history, and a masters degree in science communication.
Mike Solly, ELT expert and teacher at Languagelab, spoke to Alison on a range of topical issues and about her role at The Economist. 

Topics included her thoughts on the links between education, economic growth and social mobility, the current reputation of print journalists following the News of the World phone hacking scandal, and her opinion on the strengths and weaknesses of British education.

(Source: languagelab.com)

Languagelab is proud to be at the forefront of virtual technology and continues to explore the boundaries of how such technology can further enhance language learning.

(Source: corporate.languagelab.com)