Event Date: 8th January 2022

Abstract:

Online learning platforms with their limitations and strengths have pushed us into ensuring engagement and interactivity in language learning. But have the platforms really extended our capabilities, or are we at risk in revisiting transmission teaching (Briggs, 2007) rather than fostering learning?

This webinar argues that effective managing of online learning draws on tried and tested principles and techniques, which we may not always notice, when in the comfort zone of the physical class. Professor Stephen Hall suggests that screen-based learning media reminds us of the importance of creating a sense of belonging, placemaking and ownership, while ensuring turn taking and questioning. The building of learner/facilitator rapport has become an even greater challenge, as we aim to develop participation. Online learning pushes us to consider the structuring and delivery of listening and speaking tasks; all at a time when reading input and the length of written texts are changing. While it may seem that we are being overwhelmed by spurts of typing, WhatsApp brevity, and a cornucopia of visual stimuli, it may be timely to re-visit essential factors which foster sustainable, blended language learning.

About the Speaker:

Professor Stephen J Hall is Head, Centre for English Language Studies, Sunway University and Dean School of Interdisciplinary studies.. He was an Inservice Teacher Training nation-wide Project Manager in Malaysia for four years and has served on Ministry Of Education, Malaysia advisory committees. As a corporate trainer with his own business in Singapore, his clients included Changi airport, Singapore airlines, Visa-Asia Pacific and HBO Asia. Earlier he managed Language and Communication, Temasek Polytechnic, Singapore.

Stephen has trained teachers for the ASEAN wide RELC and has taught at tertiary, secondary and primary levels. Stephen’s doctorate on teacher education analyses early phases interaction during rural Malaysian in-service courses. Stephen has authored English for tourism textbooks, presented in over 15 countries and has over 45 publications. He enjoys percussion, wine tasting and wine writing for some balance. His last book, co-authored with Lee Su Kim was Manglish; Malaysian English at its Wackiest.