Teaching techniques

Teaching techniques

See also: Language education

[edit] Reading

TEFL that using literature aimed at children and teenagers is rising in popularity. These literature types offer simpler material ("simplified readers" are produced by major publishers), and often provide a more conversational style than literature for adults. Children's literature in particular sometimes provides subtle cues to pronunciation, through rhyming and other wordplay. One method for using these books is the multiple-pass technique. The instructor reads the book, pausing often to explain certain words and concepts. On the second pass, the instructor reads the book completely through without stopping.

[edit] Communicative language teaching

Communicative language teaching (CLT) emphasizes interaction as both the means and the ultimate goal of learning a language. Despite a number of criticisms,^[1] it continues to be popular, particularly in Japan, Taiwan,^[2] and Europe.

The task-based language learning (TBLL) approach to CLT has gained ground in recent years. Proponents believe CLT is important for developing and improving speaking, writing, listening, and reading skills, and that it prevents students merely listen passively to the teacher without interaction.

[edit] Blended learning

Blended learning is a combination of face-to-face teaching and online interactions (also known as CALL or Computer-Assisted Language Learning), achieved through a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).

VLEs have been a major growth point in the ELT industry over the last five years. There are two types:

• Externally-hosted platforms that a school or institution exports content to (e.g., the proprietary Web Course Tools, or the open source Moodle)

• Content-supplied, course-managed learning platforms (e.g. the Macmillan English Campus)

The former provides pre-designed structures and tools, while the latter supports course-building by the language school—teachers can blend existing courses with games, activities, listening exercises, and grammar reference units contained online. This supports both classroom, and self-study or remote practice (for example in an internet café).