2022.06.11Seminarsinformation
Summer 2022 MF Training Check-in #1
The Summer 2022 MF training started with a small number yet interactive and professional group of members.
In the first check-in session, we have overviewed the video lectures assigned to the group followed by meaningful discussions. The first discussion was that the teachers should be aware of our assumptions that our learners are technology-savvy. Despite our learners’ competency with smart phones and social media, it has been brought up that some of the students lack in a certain area of digital literacy. For example, it has been pointed out that the students shared their struggles with utilizing their laptops and PPT. As a matter of fact, some of the students were unsure of how to use emails from their school email accounts.
Another interesting discussion was made about the COIL sessions during pre-pandemic and post-pandemic. The instructors shared that the way the students in COIL sessions reacted and interacted pre and during pandemic have been significantly different as most of the students have been isolated during the pandemic; therefore, it was a challenge to see the connections among the students, and even the teachers.
Another discussion that was being highlighted was that since the students in COIL sessions do not know each other personally, some of the instructors observed that it seemed to be difficult for the students to be in breakout rooms right away. Hence, the instructors and participants agreed that it is important for us to be aware that the students may face challenges being put in a breakout room with the peers who are not familiar with them.
It appears that the students do experience some struggles being in online classes. it has been highlighted that it is important to pause and ask ourselves as instructors reflection questions. As instructors, are we doing a good job as a facilitator? Are we putting too much pressure on the students? Or, are we taking too much of control over students? Or even, are we giving the students too much of freedom? Such questions during online classes will be integral for instructors to reflect themselves and make a change when necessary.
21st century skills, which is one of the J-MCP modules, also need to be considered and embedded in COIL classes. Tasks involving critical thinking may be difficult for evaluation since there is no one single correct answer in relation to critical thinking. One suggestion was that students should be able to evaluate other students.
Another strategy mentioned was that providing one big question with multiple answers should be given at the beginning of the lecture, and when the instructor carries out the lecture and the topic related to the aforementioned question has been reached, the question then would be reviewed and discussed. It has been discussed that this strategy was successful in drawing students’ explicit attention while also giving them time to warm up themselves.
Another successful strategy was that nonnative English learners appreciated the use of written information. The instructors can allow the students to share screen as they presented or shared their thoughts. It can also be a meaningful opportunity for native English students because they will be aware of adjusting themselves to communicate with others. It has been highlighted that communication styles have to be taken into account to meet the needs of others. This strategy is potent and useful for their future skills assets.
Finally, our last discussion was on the types of “communication glitches” that the instructors have encountered. To avoid such glitches, the instructor needs to have ample preparation in advance. To add to this tactic, it has been suggested that written assignments asking for opinions can be anonymous so that they will not be accounted for any mistakes.
When assigning a group assignment, it has been often a case that some do not actively participate. Instead of the instructors chasing down those students, it is also important for learners to solve a problem on their own as a part of 21st century skills.
If you would like to know more about J-MCP and the MF training, please visit the website linked below: