Daniel Anderson (Asia University, Japan)
Jeffrey Maxwell (Asia University, Japan)
Abstract
In many Asian countries, including Japan, compulsory English courses often lack alignment with students' interests. Research by Soriano-Ferrer and Alonso-Blanco (2020) reveals that A1-level learners attribute failure to disinterest and lack of enjoyment, while crediting success to teacher influence and classroom atmosphere. This underscores the critical need for educators to foster engaging and enjoyable learning environments, particularly for lower-level students. Our workshop will explore effective strategies to achieve this goal, focusing on interactive techniques that promote student engagement and motivation. Participants will experience and learn to implement various activities, including interactive mingling tasks, timed group brainstorming exercises with variations, engaging word games, and scaffolded poster presentations. By incorporating these dynamic approaches, educators can create a more stimulating classroom experience, potentially improving student outcomes and attitudes towards English language learning.
Workshop (In person; 50 minutes)
Motivation / Identity / Agency
Primarily of interest to teachers of university students
About the Presenters
Daniel Anderson is a visiting lecturer at Asia University, Japan. He has over 20 years of experience at institutions throughout Japan. He earned his MSEd in TESOL at Temple University, Japan. His research interests include teacher development, task-based teaching, and peer feedback.
Jeffrey Maxwell is a visiting lecturer at Asia University in Japan. He has over 20 years of experience at programs in China, Korea, and the United States. He earned his MA TESOL from Portland State University. His research interests include English language teaching, alternative assessment, task-based language teaching, and intercultural communication.
