Learning a new language has evolved throughout history based on the interests, needs, and current education methods. Nowadays, anyone who wishes to speak and write in another language can learn online. With constant changes in technology and teaching second languages, various trends have come up, affecting e-learning language classes.
E-learning, also known as distance learning, has risen in popularity in recent years. It also became the current designated method of learning due to the pandemic. However, there have been many concerns about its effectiveness compared to the traditional face-to-face learning method.
It’s not a perfect approach to learning a foreign language, but there are ways to enhance it. Following trends is a good starting point to do it. With that in mind, here are the current trends in language e-learning that can improve the student learning experience.
Social-emotional teaching of Languages
Due to the shift of focus on e-learning, teachers are now embracing the role of being a creator. Now teachers face the task of creating a balanced social and emotional environment conducive to learning. Students, especially the younger ones, need to be in language classes to call their comfortable space that promotes learning.
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Distractions can be prominent even in a virtual classroom setup. Languages have their complexities, and it can be frustrating to learn for students to lack fluency. Thus, teachers need to ensure that their students can overcome those distractions and feelings of frustration to learn efficiently.
Being mindful is the key to crafting a balanced social and emotional learning environment. Mindfulness is something a home-based online English teacher or any language tutor should have, especially when teaching 13 to 18 years old. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, that demographic of e-learning students are exposed to an unprecedented amount of stress.
There have been various research about the benefits of mindfulness in language training and its impact on a socially sound classroom, both online and offline. This means you have to keep students happy, so they’ll learn better.
Translanguaging - a form of language teaching
Translanguaging means using various languages in an educational context. It’s a language teaching method that incorporates several theoretical approaches. But basically, it involves having students use their native language to learn a foreign language.
Its main principle is to rely upon and blend various linguistic sources to enhance students’ communication skills. Using translanguaging means teachers realize the importance of drawing from the students’ native language to help them in learning another one. It’s also a more comforting approach to acquiring a new language in a diverse context.
A few ways to implement translanguaging is to tie it up with the topic of culture. Another one is to encourage pairing and grouping if you’re teaching a class.
Augmented Reality in language teaching
New technologies used in gaming and other industries, such as interior design, can be used in online language learning. Augmented reality (AR) enables teachers and students to engage in more immersive online lessons for language acquisition.
AR tools also incorporate video platforms like FluentU for educational purposes. AR is suited for students who learn efficiently through visuals. It also saves more time and provides more room for visualization compared to reading materials.
Concluding thoughts
The current e-learning trends in language education offer more ways to acquire a new language effectively. Each one improves a student’s learning experience in a way where they can be satisfied and use various forms of helpful approaches.
If you want to learn a new language for whatever purpose, may it be for business, work, or personal gain, Eszett can help you. They teach every demographic and have practical course concepts that can ease the learning process. Visit Eszett and explore the language learning opportunities waiting for you.
