D. Serikbayev EKSTU hosted a training for English language teachers on November 27. The training is a joint effort of Oxford University, Interpress Company and EKSTU. It focused on an interactive, hands-on approach to teaching and learning: Methodology and Resources / Lexical Approach and Task-based Learning / Interactive, hands-on tasks / Classroom Management / Lesson Planning and Feedback. In two sessions of 1.5hrs duration each the underlying communicative principles behind English File 3rd Edition were looked at and how to use the resources to their full potential. A short look at the Lexical Approach and Task-based Learning gave an insight into the rationale behind the hands-on tasks. These tasks are either for pair or group work and classroom management techniques that promote learner responsibility were discussed, both inside and outside class. Finally, trainees looked at essential procedure for lesson planning and ways of giving feedback.

A presenter of the session is Paul Woodfall,  OUP’s Regional Training Co-ordinator for the Gulf, Yemen and Lebanon. He has given training workshops from K1 -12 and trained university teachers in Kazakhstan, Spain, UAE, KSA, Iran, Turkey, Lebanon, Kuwait, Bahrain, Yemen and the Sultanate of Oman.

He has lived and worked in the region for over 17 years. Specifically interested in “learning by doing”, his main goals are to promote a greater understanding of the student-centered, enquiry–based learning approach with the overall aim of encouraging critical thinking and study skills that aid learner independence as young children progress into adulthood.

Madina Yussubaliyeva