Annual Conference of the Association of University Language Centres (7th & 8th January 2010)

The annual conference of the Association of University Language Centres (AULC) took place on 7th and 8th January at the University of Exeter.I gave a presentation on Virtual Learning Environments, Blended Learning and the Student Experience.

Languages of the Wider World: Valuing Diversity (15th & 16th September 2008 SOAS)

The SOAS-UCL CETL in ‘Languages of the Wider World’ aims to promote excellence in the teaching and learning of languages that do not have a large presence in UK Higher Education but which are of increasing strategic importance, locally and globally.
A key objective of the CETL is to support blended language learning. We have recently introduced Flexi-Packs, specially-tailored packages of web-based materials to supplement taught sessions.
The paper will explain the pedagogical rationale behind the Flexi-Packs and will include examples of CETL-produced materials. Reference will be made to learners’ experience of the Flexi-Packs.

Languages in Higher Education: Transitions and Connections (8th and 9th July 2008, York University)

The SOAS-UCL CETL in ‘Languages of the Wider World’ (LWW CETL) aims to promote excellence in the teaching and learning of languages that do not have a large presence in UK Higher Education but which are of increasing strategic importance, locally and globally. A key objective of the CETL is to support blended language learning.
We have recently introduced Flexi-Packs, an innovative package of e-learning and mobile learning materials, designed to boost learner empowerment and autonomy.
The paper will present the pedagogical rationale behind the Flexi-Packs and will focus on principles of material development with a view to maximise students’ learning experience. The paper will make reference to examples of CETL-produced materials.

European League for Non-Western Studies Workshop (23rd May 2008, Leiden University) E-learning, Mobile Learning. Towards Personalisation or Collaborative Learning?

The SOAS-UCL CETL in ‘Languages of the Wider World’ aims to promote excellence in the teaching and learning of languages that do not have a large presence in UK Higher Education but which are of increasing strategic importance, locally and globally.
A key objective of the CETL is to support blended language learning. We have recently introduced Flexi-Packs, specially-tailored packages of web-based materials to supplement taught sessions.
The paper will present the Flexi-Pack project and will focus on students’ perception of e-learning, with a particular highlight on personalisation and collaborative learning. Examples of CETL-produced materials will be included.