Methodology 5

Ten innovations that have changed English language teaching
What innovations in English language teaching (ELT) have had the biggest impact on your teaching?
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English language teaching is evolving all the time, particularly alongside advances in technology. But what changes have had the biggest impact on teachers in recent years? I took the question to my global PLN (personal learning network – see the third point below). Here are what appear to be the top ten innovations for teachers, in no particular order.

1. Digital platforms

When we discuss innovation, we often immediately think of the internet and what we can now do online. Facebook and especially Edmodo, which creates a safe online environment for teachers, students and parents to connect, are popular with teachers.

Cloud-based tools like Google Docs have also become indispensable. For teacher Tyson Seburn, it’s where I ve moved so much of individual and (because of its functionality) collaborative writing with students...

The list of digital platforms is extensive and growing all the time. A multimedia manual like Digital Video by Nik Peachey (nominated for an ELTons award for innovations in teacher resources) can help teachers navigate the complicated, and sometimes overwhelming, world of digital resources, enabling teachers to create activities, lessons and courses from a range of digital tools.