Digital Day in Düsseldorf: A joint event with OUP & Pete Sharma

Digital Day in Düsseldorf: A joint event with OUP & Pete Sharma

Sunday, November 20

Volkshochschule Düsseldorf Bertha-von-Suttner-Platz 14022 Düsseldorf

11:00 – 3:30

Session 1: Mobile learning: integrating smartphones and tablets into language learning (60 minutes)

Many language students today own a mobile phone, a smartphone and / or a tablet pc; some bring these devices to their language lessons. Language teachers today might use m-learning (mobile learning) in the classroom, or offer advice in a learner training session on the best apps to use post-course. Such technology has been described as ‘disruptive’, but apps can also be empowering.

This session will first explore the different dimensions of ‘m-learning’ – mobile learning. Secondly, it will present some key distinctions in the area of apps: operating systems; authentic vs ELT; free vs paid for; ‘native’ vs ‘web-based’. Thirdly, it will present a wide range of apps for language learning, focusing on: grammar, vocabulary, the four language skills (listening and reading, speaking and writing), phonology and ‘serious’ gaming. A list of apps will be available from the presenter’s website. Please Bring Your Own Device.

Session 2: 30 practical ideas for using digital technologies in language teaching (90 minutes)

While new technology has changed the teaching and learning of languages forever, using ICT remains a controversial area. Many teachers are enthusiastic about using new technology in their courses; some are less so. Whether teachers and students benefit from such digital approaches depends on a range of factors, including: the teachers’ level of knowledge and skills; the support of the institution; the availability of hardware; and perhaps most importantly of all, the teachers’ attitude towards new technology.

See: http://www.elta-rhine.de/Future_Events