I found it very useful to review some of the basic theories of listening processes. They complement each other and produce a 3D picture of what may go on in one’s head when listening. I remember my experience in a British supermarket when asked at the till: “Any cashback?” I used my first card and had no schematic knowledge related to it. So these words that I understood later not only had no meaning to me, they sounded incomprehensible.
Therefore in my teaching practice I try to use relevant and engaging materials so that to encourage students’ active listening. One of the examples is “Burn Notice” video series experience. The series is about a former spy. It has short episodes with completed stories. All these make it easier for students to understand the language. There’s also a website with lots of things to do after students have watched the film: do quizzes, watch 1-minute “Ask a Spy Tips” or play games using the information from the film. I myself had fun doing those activities.
Mykola Kisil in his Week 3 blog mentions a few things that he learned during this week. I also think that the resourses we have read and looked through help building a more motivating and engaging learning environment.
Social bookmarking that I already knew about turned out a useful thing, especially when I was away from my computer and couldn't access traditional bookmarks. Thanks to Javier I have a great number of new links to go through. I think they may be grouped for easier access, too.
Mykola Kisil in his Week 3 blog mentions a few things that he learned during this week. I also think that the resourses we have read and looked through help building a more motivating and engaging learning environment.
Social bookmarking that I already knew about turned out a useful thing, especially when I was away from my computer and couldn't access traditional bookmarks. Thanks to Javier I have a great number of new links to go through. I think they may be grouped for easier access, too.
Hi Tatyana,
ReplyDeleteYou had a pretty funny but helpful experience, didn’t you? In my opinions, I think it’s important that we choose materials that are relevant and can draw students’ interest.
I go to youtube for videos most of the time, but I’ll try “Burn Notice” as you suggested. Thanks for your sharing.
PS. Watching videos/films is the best way to develop listening skill?
Phuong-Mai
Hi Tatyana
ReplyDeleteExcellent and insightful post. I like your idea of a 3D picture going on in a listeners head, I've never heard it put that way before. Your comment about "cash back" reminds me of my students in the States who get confused by the statement at the cashier "paper or plastic". In this case they are being asked to make a choice about what type of bag they want their groceries packed in, and they often don't have this schema from their countries.
Robert
Hi Tatyana,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that the resources we have right now are abundant and we can pick and choose material to engage and motivate our students.