experiential Module

Materials for Online Language Teachers

EM Overview

Learning & Reflections

Findings & Recommendations

Learning Italian Online + CALL Readings & Research =

Following my time as a student in the Italian course, I put my teacher-researcher cap back on to create some beneficial documentation for my colleagues and peers. Combining my reflections on the most impactful learning experiences with data and recommendations from notable scholars in the world of computer-assisted language learning (CALL), I have generated two tangible outcomes: A guide for online language teachers (with practical tips and techniques) and a Literature Review (containing the supporting references and philosophical underpinnings).

practical guide for online language teachers

Informed by my experience as a language learner and subsequent readings in the field of CALL, I have created a functional guide that online teachers can utilize when designing their courses and planning instruction.
Presented in a Google Doc for ease of accessibility and sharing, this guide contains dedicated sections on Planning for Instruction, Learner Interaction, Community-Building, and helpful CALL Resources.
Teachers will find motivating strategies that build a strong sense of community, engaging activities that provide authentic input and foster interaction, and tech tools that enhance collaboration and support language acquisition.
Any language instructor (whether teaching in an in-person, blended, or online context) will find helpful ideas to facilitate open-ended communication and promote creative target language use among learners.

Interaction in Online Language Courses

literature review & Rationale

Waite_FLT885_US23_FinalPaper.pdf

This academic paper serves to support the recommendations in my guide above, outlining the numerous benefits to online language instruction and discussing the mindset, skills, and pedagogical considerations necessary for online teachers.
I draw connections between language acquisition theories, recent research in the field of CALL and my own experiences as a language learner in the Italian class to recommend a course of action for approaching the design of an online language course.
Successful online teachers are dedicated to career-long learning and professional development in the field of CALL to keep these skills well-informed and up to date.
Furthermore, collaboration with fellow online instructors, as well as attention to the needs of all their learners, will help online practitioners design learning experiences that result in proficiency growth for all students.