Learning Outcome 10 - Demonstrated ability to evaluate language teaching materials and design a course of language instruction based upon an articulated working philosophy of language learning and teaching.
Artifact - Listening, Speaking: Practical Conversation Language Course
DESCIPTION:
The Listening, Speaking: Practical Conversations Course was created for Dr. Tasha Bleistein’s Language Program Design (TESL 560) during the Fall II of 2021. The program is an integrated skills course for Listening & Speaking designed for Korean Professionals whose residence is in South Korea preparing to move to the U.S. It explains my perspective on language learning, teaching, and materials selection and adaptation.
REFLECTION:
Before studying education or pedagogy to become an English language instructor, though a trainer of Emergency Management Professionals, much of my teaching experience in an academic setting and classroom was based on observations from other teachers and intuitions. In the TESL 560 course, I appreciate the opportunity that allowed a task to ascribe my personal pedagogy. Instead of ritualized teaching (Wajnryb, 2011), my understanding and teaching philosophy is more developed through careful consideration, research, and experience. My previous contexts required ample time and effort to adapt and create materials. Both (Graves, 2000, & Richards, 2001) provided a deeper understanding of choosing textbooks and authentic language for an accurate picture of language exchange. I realize that though textbooks are practical in many ways, there is no substitute for designing, creating, and adapting materials for one's context.
APPLICATION:
I will persist in monitoring and refining my personal teaching philosophy through experience, research, reading, and observation. Participating in this program has helped me begin to document my teaching philosophy when a particular experience or text makes an impact. In designing and developing my lessons, I will teach skills and strategies such as reflection and self-evaluation to produce autonomous learners equipped to work. Concerning materials, I will continue to adapt or supplement materials for my specific context (such as utilizing texts related to current events in learners' context) and, when necessary, create my own curriculum suited to the practical, immediate, and long-term needs of the students, as I have done with the Listening and Speaking Course. Lastly, I will continue to monitor and evaluate new curricula for authenticity and practicality.