Student Centred Teaching Methods

Federico Riva Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction faces the significant challenge of effectively helping non-native speakers grasp the multi-layered intricacies of English. Many approaches to ESL instruction have been developed over the years, each with its own unique strengths and issues. Among these approaches, the Engage-Study-Activate (ESA) method stands out for its adaptability, student-centeredness, and focus on real-life language use. The ESA Method Flexibility and Adaptability Elicitation Student-Centered Interaction-Driven Learning Real-Life Language Use Are you ready to teach English as a foreign language? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! Disclaimer: The views and opinions...  [Read more]

  Before looking at the methods or approaches themselves, there are some terms that we need to define. These are the approach, the method or the technique. Basically, these are hierarchical. The approach is an overriding set of principles that a method can actually make use of, whereas the technique are the things that we actually do in the classroom to approach that method. So, these three words are going to appear during the presentation. Again, for each of either the approaches all the methodologies we're going to ask four questions. So be it an approach or a method for each of those things: Where did it come from? What's its background? What does it involve when we're talking about actually in the classroom, in other words techniques? What is positive about it? What appears to...  [Read more]

  "In terms of the things that are negative about it, we've already said that it doesn't develop speaking but perhaps the biggest negative point about this particular methodology is that it's very unnatural. Ok, so despite the criticisms of this particular method, and particularly the fact that is unnatural, this particular methodology was in use all the way through the 17th, 18th and 19th century and indeed it's still in use today. However, Gouin in the 1880s and Berlitz in the early 1900s decided that this particular methodology was so unnatural that they wanted to come up with something new. The method that they came up with, they called the direct method. You will also sometimes see it as the natural method. What these two people were saying is that if we wish to learn a language...  [Read more]

In a TEFL classroom, adopting a learner-centered approach to assessment involves shifting the focus from the teacher to the students. This approach recognizes that learners have different needs, learning styles, and paces of learning. By understanding each student's strengths, weaknesses, and preferences, teachers can tailor assessments to suit individual learning goals. To implement a learner-centered assessment approach, teachers can use a variety of strategies such as self-assessment, peer-assessment, and portfolio assessment. Self-assessment encourages students to reflect on their own learning progress and set goals for improvement. Peer-assessment promotes collaboration and allows students to provide feedback to their classmates. Portfolio assessment involves compiling a collection...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas When teaching English, teachers need to be aware of the issues that students will be dealing with. For my summative task, I would like to explore one of the biggest issues that I experienced while studying English, which is a 'confidence issue.' Consequences 1. Student Talking Time 2. Choice of Learning Resources 3. Polite Correcting Techniques Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Mitsuki O. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Generally speaking, the issue of not being confident in language learning enormously affects students, especially when they are actually trying to use English for output...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas When we start to learn new things as children, we tend to do that with the help of games. That is why in many classrooms of young learners, we find games to be a highly popular medium amongst educators. It is a way of absorbing and processing a piece of information in a fun and educational way. But when we grow up, we somehow forget the necessity of games in the classroom. Ice Breaker Ways to Include Games into Your Lesson What Games to Choose? Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Anna B. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. When it comes to learning a second language, children immerse themselves in...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Every fresh teacher, once starting his or her career, has this question: how should I teach English? What is the best way to organize my classes to make sure students would not be bored and learn something? And how to keep them motivated and enjoy every lesson? I did have all these questions at the beginning of my teaching career, and by trials and errors, I found the approach this TEFL course is based on – ESA. My Language Learning Story Teaching Practice Lesson Steps Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Angelina G. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. My English journey began long before...  [Read more]

In a classroom setting, it's essential to recognize that students have diverse learning styles. Some students learn best through visual aids, some through auditory input, and others through hands-on experiences. By understanding these different learning styles, teachers can tailor their teaching methods to cater to the individual needs of each student. This approach can enhance student engagement, comprehension, and overall academic performance. Visual learners grasp information most effectively through visual aids such as charts, diagrams, and videos. To cater to visual learners, teachers can incorporate visual elements into their lessons, such as using colorful presentations, mind maps, and graphic organizers. Providing written instructions and encouraging the use of color coding can...  [Read more]

The Direct Method is a popular teaching approach in TEFL courses that emphasizes the use of the target language in the classroom. In this method, teachers communicate only in the language being taught, encouraging students to think and respond directly in that language. Vocabulary and grammar are taught in context, and students are encouraged to practice speaking, listening, and reading from the start. This method aims to create a natural language learning environment, similar to how children learn their first language. The Grammar-Translation Method is a traditional approach to teaching language that focuses on grammar rules, translation of texts, and rote memorization of vocabulary. This method is based on the idea that language learning is a mental exercise that involves understanding...  [Read more]

Discover the innovative and effective teaching methods used by ITTT in Melbourne to help you achieve your goals in English language teaching. Whether you are a seasoned educator looking to enhance your skills or a newcomer to the field, our expertly designed courses will empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the dynamic world of ESL teaching. At ITTT, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality education that prepares our students for rewarding careers in ESL teaching. Our courses are designed by industry experts who understand the latest trends and techniques in language education. With a focus on practical skills and real-world application, our programs equip you with the confidence and expertise to excel in any teaching environment. Our ESL teaching methods...  [Read more]

To create effective TEFL teaching strategies, it is crucial to understand your students' needs, interests, and language proficiency levels. Conducting a needs analysis can help you tailor your lessons to meet the specific requirements of your students. Consider factors such as their age, cultural background, and learning styles when designing your teaching approach. By understanding your students better, you can create a more engaging and effective learning environment. Incorporating a variety of interactive and engaging teaching methods is essential in TEFL classrooms. Utilize activities such as group work, role plays, games, and discussions to keep students actively involved in the learning process. By using a mix of visual, auditory, and kinesthetic teaching techniques, you can cater to...  [Read more]

Federico Riva Teaching Ideas Motivation can be categorized into two types: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation is a drive that comes from within a person. People are intrinsically motivated when they enjoy doing an activity. Extrinsic motivation is a drive that comes from outside of a person. People are extrinsically motivated when they want to gain a reward (like a prize or a good grade) or avoid a punishment. Motivating Students to Learn English with some Smart Tactics are as follows: Make Class Communicative: Make English Practical: Forge Relationships: Make Class Fun: Give Feedback: Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Nigar S. Please note that this blog post might not...  [Read more]

Page Text: Teaching online has become an essential part of the education system, especially with the rise of remote learning. As educators navigate this new territory, it is crucial to understand effective online teaching methods that can engage students and facilitate learning. In this guide, we will explore various strategies and techniques for successful online teaching. From creating interactive lessons to fostering a sense of community in virtual classrooms, we will delve into the key components that make online teaching impactful and rewarding. 1. Engaging Content Delivery 2. Interactive Learning Activities 3. Building a Virtual Learning Community 4. Assessing Student Progress One of the most critical aspects of online teaching is delivering content in a way that captures students'...  [Read more]

To be a successful TEFL teacher, one must possess a unique set of qualities that go beyond just knowing the English language. Firstly, patience is key when teaching English as a foreign language. Students may struggle with pronunciation, grammar rules, or vocabulary, and it is essential for a TEFL teacher to remain patient and understanding throughout the learning process. Additionally, adaptability is crucial in the ever-changing classroom environment. Each group of students is different, and a successful TEFL teacher must be able to adjust their teaching style and materials to suit the needs of their students. Furthermore, cultural sensitivity is vital when teaching English to students from diverse backgrounds. Understanding and respecting cultural differences can help create a more...  [Read more]

In a TEFL classroom, it is essential to recognize and cater to the various learning styles of your students. Understanding that students have different ways of processing information - visually, auditorily, or kinesthetically - can significantly impact their learning experience. Visual learners prefer to see information in charts, graphs, or images, while auditory learners learn best through listening and speaking activities. Kinesthetic learners, on the other hand, learn by doing and engaging in hands-on activities. By identifying these preferences, teachers can adapt their teaching methods to create a more inclusive and effective learning environment for all students. For visual learners, incorporating visual aids such as PowerPoint presentations, videos, or flashcards can enhance their...  [Read more]

  Also in the 1970s la señal came up with a new methodology called "Suggestopedia". As psychological theory was developing, one of the ideas that came up was something called ?the effective filter?. Basically, the effective filter is a barrier to learning. It's the reasons why we inhibit our learning of a particular language. There are two main elements to the effective filter, two sets of factors, if you like, those are known as internal and external factors. The external factors to learning, the reasons why we have barriers to learning, may be just simple things such as external noise. So, people talking to us while we're trying to learn and so on and so forth. Perhaps more important are these internal factors and the internal factors one of the main things here is our previous...  [Read more]

Enhance your teaching skills with advanced methods in teaching English provided by ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training). Discover innovative techniques to engage students, improve learning outcomes, and create a dynamic classroom environment. 1. The Importance of Professional Development 2. Implementing Technology in the Classroom 3. Utilizing Differentiated Instruction Strategies 4. Incorporating Project-Based Learning Approaches As an educator, continuous professional development is crucial to stay current with the latest trends and best practices in teaching. ITTT offers a range of advanced courses specifically designed to help teachers enhance their skills and knowledge in teaching English as a foreign language. These courses focus on practical strategies and techniques that...  [Read more]

1. The Importance of ESL Teaching Methods 2. Popular ESL Teaching Methods in California 3. Implementing Technology in ESL Teaching 4. Conclusion Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) is a crucial field in California, given the diverse population and the increasing demand for English language skills. ESL teachers play a vital role in helping non-native English speakers acquire proficiency in the language, enabling them to participate fully in society. Effective ESL teaching methods are essential for ensuring students develop the necessary language skills to succeed academically and professionally. In California, where ESL learners come from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds, it is imperative for educators to employ a range of strategies to cater to the diverse needs of their...  [Read more]

1. Overview of ESL Teaching 2. Traditional ESL Teaching Methods 3. Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) 4. Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) requires a deep understanding of language acquisition, cultural sensitivity, and effective teaching methods. ESL teachers play a crucial role in helping non-native English speakers develop their language skills for academic, professional, and social purposes. With the increasing demand for English proficiency globally, ESL teaching has become a dynamic and rewarding career choice. Traditional ESL teaching methods focus on grammar rules, vocabulary drills, and rote memorization. These methods are often teacher-centered, with an emphasis on accuracy and correctness. While traditional approaches have been...  [Read more]

France is a country renowned for its rich culture, history, and cuisine. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the picturesque vineyards of Bordeaux, this European nation offers a myriad of attractions for both tourists and expatriates. As the demand for English as a Second Language (ESL) education continues to rise in France, educators are exploring innovative teaching methods to help students develop their language skills while immersing themselves in the French way of life. France has experienced a growing need for ESL education in recent years, driven by globalization and the increasing importance of English as a global lingua franca. With English being the language of international business, diplomacy, and academia, proficiency in English has become a valuable asset for French students...  [Read more]

Student-centered pedagogy is a teaching approach that focuses on the needs and interests of the students rather than on the teacher or the content being taught. In the context of teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL), this approach involves creating a student-centered classroom where students take an active role in their learning. Teachers act as facilitators, guiding students through the learning process and providing support as needed. This approach promotes student engagement, motivation, and autonomy in language learning. Inquiry-based learning is a teaching method that involves posing questions, problems, or scenarios to students and allowing them to explore and discover the answers on their own. In the TEFL classroom, inquiry-based learning can be implemented by incorporating...  [Read more]

To create engaging and interactive lessons as a TEFL teacher, it is crucial to first understand your students' needs and interests. Conducting a needs analysis at the beginning of the course can provide valuable insights into the students' language proficiency, learning goals, and preferences. By tailoring your lessons to meet the specific needs and interests of your students, you can increase their motivation and engagement in the learning process. Additionally, getting to know your students on a personal level can help you create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where they feel comfortable expressing themselves and participating actively in class. In order to keep your lessons engaging and interactive, it is important to incorporate a variety of teaching methods and...  [Read more]

  So what we're going to do is to run through a series of methodologies that were created mainly in the 1900s that adopted the idea that language learning should be much more communicative, much more natural. The first one is called audiolingualism and it's also called the army method because of where it was developed. Basically, psychology, during the 1950s and 60s, was building up new theories about behaviorism. Perhaps the most famous experiments that were done in this particular area were by Pavlov, where he was showing that most animals undergo a stimulus response mechanism and he had a series of famous experiments, where by ringing a bell, he could cause a dog to salivate, that would be his response, in the expectation of getting some food. This behaviorist idea of stimulus...  [Read more]

  Before we move on to the final methodology for today, let's just recap and see where we are at this point in time. We're looking at different learning methodologies. Each of those methodologies takes its premise from being somewhere on this particular spectrum of ?nature versus nurture? and where we are on this spectrum gives us a starting point for the background or theory to that particular methodology. So, we?ve had a look starting in the 17th century and the classical method and moving on as the ideas of psychology developed to various methods, such as audiolingualism, the silent way, Suggestopedia and TPR. Each of these showing a development as knowledge about learning increased and each of these takes a different starting point on our English spectrum. Below you can read...  [Read more]

  The purpose of grammar translation then is to basically translate between L1 and L2 and vice versa. So, we could take a simple example. Let's imagine that our native language was English and our target language was French and let's assume that we want to translate a document from French into English. Let's take a simple sentence. Here's a sentence in French "Ouvre la fenêtre" and we'll add "s'il vous plaît" at the end. What we want to do is to take this L2 and translate it back into English. Now, if we have a reasonable knowledge of French then we may well know that this particular verb "ouvre" "to open" translates directly and this female form of the and finally the fenêtre "Open the window" and this polite form of "please". This is all very well if the two structures that...  [Read more]

  Our final methodology is accredited to Jeremy Harmer and it's known by the letters ESA. Around 1998, Jeremy Harmer produced a book called "How to teach English" and basically what Harmer did, is a background to this book is to do what we have done today and to work through all of the different methodologies that have come about over the last 300 years. He highlighted for each of those methodologies what was good about it, what was positive and what didn't appear to work and then put all of the positive things into a melting pot and came out with this methodology, which he called ESA. It's a three-stage methodology, where each of the letters represents a particular phase of the lesson. The first one being called the engage phase, the second the study phase and the final one the...  [Read more]

1. Understanding Diverse Learners 2. Adapting Teaching Strategies 3. Creating Inclusive Learning Environments 4. Conclusion In today's multicultural and multilingual classrooms, teachers encounter a wide range of diverse learners with varying backgrounds, learning styles, and abilities. Understanding the unique characteristics of each student is essential for effective teaching. By recognizing and embracing diversity, educators can create inclusive learning environments where all students feel valued and supported. It is crucial for teachers to adapt their teaching methods to meet the needs of diverse learners and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed. To accommodate diverse learners, teachers must be flexible and willing to modify their teaching strategies. This may...  [Read more]

To address the individual learning needs and preferences of your TEFL students, it is crucial to first understand that each student is unique in terms of their learning style, pace, strengths, and weaknesses. Conducting a needs analysis at the beginning of the course can help you gather information about your students' language proficiency, learning goals, interests, and preferred learning strategies. This information will enable you to tailor your lessons to meet the specific needs of each student, ensuring that they are engaged and making progress in their language learning journey. Once you have identified the individual learning needs of your TEFL students, the next step is to adapt your teaching methods to accommodate those needs. This may involve incorporating a variety of teaching...  [Read more]

  This presentation is going to focus on the theories, methods and techniques of teaching and we're going to start with a quote. This is an interesting quotation because it contains within it a philosophical argument and it's a philosophical argument in the way in which we learn. Basically, this one is saying that the intelligence of their own children comes about due to a natural process. So this one could be said to be due to nature. This is exactly the opposite of this one, which is saying that they're teaching the environment that we create, creates that intelligence. So this one can be said to be due to nurture and this argument 'nature versus nurture' has been going on for thousands of years. These two viewpoints are two ends of a scale, or a continuum if you like, and every...  [Read more]

  So let's take an example of what those drills might involve. So here is an example of a repetition drill. I will model the language and then my class will repeat after me. So "This is a cup." "Spoon" ? "This is a spoon." "Knife" - "his is a knife." Thank you. The reason that it's called or also called the army method is that it was the method adopted by the United States military who had personnel stationed around the world at the end of Second World War and they realized that they needed those personnel to pick up the language very quickly and one of the positive things about this particular methodology is that you do very quickly learn vocabulary. Another positive thing about it is that you quickly learn the correct pronunciation of that vocabulary. However, there are some...  [Read more]