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Excitement and Challenge


The first week of this new year came in like a whirling dervish!  Rested from the holiday we all jumped back into the groove with good and new intentions.

The bigger the challenge, the bigger the opportunity for growth. Anonymous

Learning Spanish has been one of those exciting challenges I chose to try. I had fun listening to the Notes in Spanish Inspired Beginner Spanish podcast on the treadmill – as I went back at the gym (lots of commitments). I also worked through a lot of the lessons in the Duolingo app. I like the variety of types of opportunities you have to practice in Duolingo. I also like that you can read stories and use prediction skills to get yourself thinking in the target language. I find myself surprised that I remember some vocabulary from my HS and College Spanish studies!

This week I plan to expand how I use Notes in Spanish by participating in their forums and seeing if I can make some connections to practice speaking. I think that is the part that is missing most often when we try to learn a language online – and I think it is one of the most valuable efforts we make at the World of Learning; when schools don’t have a teacher we provide the live sessions and guided practice. We are getting really good at using authentic practice and resources in our courses. Without practicing speaking we don’t really know the language, do we?

So far these are a few take away’s – and what may be some long-term effects digital resources can have in the classroom every day:

1.     We can, if working with motivated learners, provide guidance for learners to use resources like podcast and apps to gain initial knowledge and build skills. Many of the apps provide a variety of ways to practice and develop skills (in languages and other concepts). Indeed, many of our learners are already doing this with things they are interested in by using social media and YouTube.
2.     Forums and meet-ups can enhance the social aspect of learning. Especially in a language, interaction with others is important for developing speaking fluency. In both Notes in Spanish and Duolingo there are many opportunities to connect with others. In schools, we will have to vet these resources well. It also make me think about how we help to connect schools and partner to expand the opportunities for learners!
3.     Learning requires us to interact and cooperate with others. Regardless of the content. While I was too shy to really try a forum to use my new skills at first, I found visiting friends who are native speakers gave me a safe place to dip my toe in. Schools can have the same impact for learners – a safe place to try and fail.

As I continue to practice Spanish I plan to call on my friends and colleagues in the World of Learning. This week I hope to dive a bit deeper into the places that will allow me to try to use the words I know. I am gaining a whole new empathy for learners' who struggle as I delve into something that does not come easy to me.

What are you trying new? How are you helping your learners’ to find something they are passionate about learning?

Want to help your learners’ with World Languages? Let’s chat!

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