230517 Web-based, autonomous project work in the classroom (GymGe & HRG) (S) (WiSe 2014/2015)

In this practice-related seminar, which synthesises and applies theories from SLA, Learner Autonomy and Language Learning Motivation, you will explore the possibilities of web-based project work for learners of different levels of proficiency and maturity. Web projects can supplement coursebook topics or function as theme-based, stand-alone units; they enable the students to cope with the complexity of authentic language, discover linguistic and cultural features and acquire new language. This is achieved through tasks involving the exploration of web content with the help of plurilingual and pluricultural strategies and resulting in communicative language production.

Autonomous learning being a core element of project work, the course will introduce you to graded steps of autonomy, from teacher-guided projects with pre-selected materials and semi-autonomous web research for lower-level and intermediate learners to entirely student-created projects at more advanced levels. Other foci will be general media competence as an interdisciplinary goal, as well as the predominant use of (non-standard) English on the web and the implications for metalanguage required in the classroom.

You will have the opportunity to creatively design web projects of your own choice for different levels, taking into account practical considerations within school settings. There will be no written examination, but apart from reading and finding relevant literature you are expected to actively participate in classroom discussion on a regular basis, to plan projects – during lessons and at home – and to present them in class.