Nguyet Anh's Weekly Reflection

  This module focused on Flipped Learning - what it is, types of flipped classrooms, how to design a flipped lesson, and useful tools and apps for flipped learning implementation. Flipped learning refers to “a pedagogical approach in which the conventional notion of classroom-based learning is inverted so that students are introduced to the learning material before class with classroom time being used to deepen understanding through discussion with peers and problem-solving activities facilitated by teachers” (AdvanceHE, n.d.). This definition represents a shift towards modern teaching methodologies. Students are no longer passive recipients of information during class; instead, they actively engage with course material beforehand, often through readings, videos, or other preparatory materials. The class time is thus reserved for collaboration, critical thinking, and practical application, so that students can consolidate their understanding, confront misconceptions, and delve into...

  In this module, our class learned three more concepts: Project-based Learning, Alternative Assessment, and Rubrics, all of which will be reflected in this writing. With regard to Project-based Learning (PBL), it is defined as “a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to an authentic, engaging, and complex question, problem, or challenge” (PBLWorks, n.d.). Simply put, PBL emphasizes the active role of students in constructing their own knowledge by finding solutions to a specific, usually real-world, problem. This not only helps students to develop critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving skills, but also makes their learning experience more fulfilling and meaningful. Though PBL proves to be an effective approach to language teaching, I do not think it is really practical for my class due to the varying proficiency levels of students and the limited instructional...

  After exploring websites that help build oral/ aural skills, this week our class continued to learn about useful tools for reading/ writing skills as well as how to design technology-enhanced lesson plans.  Like previous modules, we participated in another online discussion on Canvas. This time the focus was on sharing resources to bolster reading and writing skills, and my classmates offered a wealth of suggestions, with the British Council’s LearnEnglish website being the one that received the most recommendations. This comprehensive platform offers a diverse range of self-study lessons tailored to different English proficiency levels (from A1 to C1) based on the Common European Framework of References for languages (CEFR). Its integrated interactive activities, from vocabulary and grammar quizzes to skill-building practices like writing prompts and reading comprehension exercises, serve as invaluable tools for reinforcing the concepts covered in the lessons. Besides...

This week, our class continued to learn about different websites for developing speaking and listening skills, as well as how to use social bookmarking sites effectively. According to Chinnery (2005), the use of computer technology in language learning, also known as Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL), has increased rapidly over the past few decades. With significant technological advances, ESL/ EFL teachers and students now have access to a multitude of speaking and listening activities, which, I believe, can positively influence second language acquisition. There are a wide range of useful websites for building oral/ aural skills mentioned in our online discussion, of which I am most familiar with Flipgrid and Elsa . Regarding the former, I first experienced this tool as a sophomore. Specifically, one of my lecturers at ULIS established a class on Flipgrid and invited us to join. Weekly, she posted a topic with one or two discussion questions for us to practice our speaking ...