2012/05/20

Title: Exploring and Experiencing Online Materials for Second Language Learning and Teaching

Speaker: Robert Habbick

Robert Habbick swears he is not a guru, not a tech guy, not someone who can "hack into your iPad". While this may be true, he certainly knows more about online language learning than the average bear.

In the first half of his presentation, Habbick introduced Gunma JALT members to a process called the digital audit: a comprehensive technological checklist necessary for a smooth experience in the digital classroom. He also urged caution with his "three T's of technology" - it can be treacherous, tricky, but also tanoshii.

After a break, attendees logged in and were given the chance to try some online materials, courtesy of Cambridge University Press. Among CUP's many online offerings was Touchstone, an interactive online course in which students can interact with English using activities, games and video roleplaying. Let's Talk Online is a companion to the popular Let's Talk series, and attendees found it quite entertaining and engaging. Cambridge English Teacher and Cambridge English Placement Test are affordable ways for teachers and students alike to challenge themselves. And last, but certainly not least, English360 is a content-creation and delivery platform, which could perhaps be described as Moodle-made-managable.

Robert Habbick is a former teacher and currently the Cambridge University Press Digital Marketing Manager for Asia. His 28 years in Asia include: teaching, editorial, teacher-training, and most recently digital materials for the classroom.