EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY: THE ICT PERSONALITY TEST

Dear fellow language "tech-teachers"!

Yeah! This entry is meant just for you! As you know, we are submerged in an ever-evolving digital age. Even so, the integration of ICT skills into the language classroom has become increasingly controversial. As language educators, is it necessary for us to put the efficiency of technology in enhancing learning experiences to the test? 

To my mind, technology offers a myriad of opportunities to engage students, personalize learning experiences and foster collaboration and communication skills: all essential components of language acquisition, don't you agree? From interactive language apps to designing personalized chatbots, the possibilities are endless! Moreover, integrating ICT skills into the language classroom not only prepares students for the digital world we live in but also cultivates essential 21st-century skills: critical thinking, creativity, digital literacy... You name them! I know I am not alone on this!

So, as a technological enthusiast, I have already started my own personal contribution to the enhancement of technology integration in education by collaborating with other teachers to learn cooperatively to effectively use technology in class.

My next training course is taking place in the Teachers Training Centre in Vigo next week and I have just decided to kick-start the first session with a fun and insightful activity: the ICT Personality Test, which aims to help teachers reflect on their current use of technology in teaching and identify areas for growth and improvement. You can give it a try yourselves! Just scan the code below and let me know how you did:

The test consists of a series of questions designed to assess a teacher's comfort level with digital tools, their proficiency in incorporating technology into lesson plans, and their openness to exploring new technologies. By completing this test, I hope they will gain some relevant insights into their teaching style and how technology can enhance their instructional practices. At least, it will provide some food for thought to jump-start the session in the right mood!

I encourage you, educators, to embrace technology as a learning tool rather than a mere add-on: You will manage to create dynamic learning environments that cater to diverse learner needs and preferences. Technology opens up a world of possibilities for both language teachers and learners alike. Let's approach it with an open mind and a willingness to explore!

RETRIEVAL PRACTICE: HOW TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE ESL CLASSROOM

Some of you, maybe my most beloved followers, already know that yesterday I took part in a webinar by @linguascope. I was privileged enough to share knowledge and expertise with @CristaHazell and I am still thrilled about the experience. 

I had always been keen on retrieving information in class, even before I knew what it really was and the great benefits it provides both students and teachers with. So, when Crista asked me to join the Linguascope webinars, I did not doubt it. I knew retrieval practice would be my thing! I have read a lot about the issue, also implemented a lot of strategies in class, being and the big three (Brain Dump - Cops and Robbers and the Elimination chain) my favourite ones, of course!

If you are interested, you can watch the webinar through the Linguascope app and also have a sneak peek at my presentation below.

retrieval_practice_linguascope by Paula Gómez Cernadas

Thanks a lot to Crista, again, for making the webinar possible and to Diana Pastoriza for considering that I deserved the credit! Just let me know if you are interested in getting more information about the contents of the webinar and I will be glad to share!

MAIN TARGET: C1 CERTIFICATE

Glad and proud that the CEFORE Pontevedra has counted on me to teach one of their teacher training courses. I have just plunged into this new adventure helping eleven incredibly motivated teachers achieve their final goal: the C1 certificate. Every Friday afternoon until the end of May I'll be providing them with the right strategies and skills to ace the test! We have just had our first session. Read the headlines they have designed themselves at the end of it and gather your own conclusions. They are the ones I will definitely get inspiration from!

Teaching is a work from heart!

SECRET SANTA SHOW!

English teachers at EOI Pontevedra had their own Secret Santa Show.... because they are worth it!! This tradition started not long ago at school. The teachers are randomly assigned a mate to whom they give a gift. The identity of the gift giver is never to be revealed!! The Christmas presents are opened on the last day before they go on holiday and that is the best way to get into the christmas mood!

I got a wonderful set of glass coasters... from Salamanca! I do thank my Secret Santa for it!!