Yes, it is always a good idea to reflect on current trends and consider what might be on the horizon for English language teaching (ELT). As a blog of Learning Unlimited, it would be imperative that our post directly reflect the learning trends across the ELT industry.
Some ELT trends that could continue to gain momentum in 2023 are:
Online and Blended Learning
Online and blended learning have become increasingly popular in English language teaching (ELT) due to their flexibility and accessibility.
In online learning, all or most of the instruction is delivered through digital means. While in blended learning, the instruction is a combination of online and face-to-face learning. These modes of learning have become even more important during the COVID-19 pandemic. As they allow for safe and effective distance learning. Online and blended learning offer several benefits;
- Increased flexibility for students,
- More individualized learning
- Access to a wide range of digital resources
ELT programs may continue to incorporate online and blended learning even after the pandemic. As they have become a preferred mode of instruction for many students and educators.
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality (VR) is an emerging technology that has the potential to revolutionize English language teaching (ELT). VR technology allows students to immerse themselves in a simulated environment that can be tailored to their language learning needs. For example, students can practice their language skills in a virtual classroom, engage in simulations of real-world conversations and interactions, and explore virtual environments that are relevant to their language learning goals. VR has immensely landed into the ELT as it’s a new tool it has some trial and errors for early adopters. So we must assume that in 2023 we all will witness the increase in the VR trend.
Mediation
In context to ELT may refers to the ability to facilitate communication between speakers of different languages. Mediation can take various forms, such as interpreting, translating, and paraphrasing. These skills are becoming increasingly important in a globalized world, where communication across language barriers is common.
ELT programs may incorporate mediation training to help students develop the ability to mediate communication between speakers of different languages. Thus we must infer that mediation is one burning trend to carry on in 2023.
Life Skills
Yes!! That’s correct.Life skills are a set of competencies that are essential for success in various aspects of life. Which includes academic, professional and personal domains. They are often referred to as “soft skills,” “21st-century skills,” or “transferable skills”. They are skills that can be applied across different contexts and are essential for success in today’s world. ELT programs may incorporate life skills training to help students develop the skills they need to succeed in various aspects of their lives. Beyond just language learning. Conclusively, we can deduce that life skills in context to ELT will be a great deal of importance to students of languages . This will keep them in trend across the industry in 2023.
Green English language teaching
With the accelerating climate crisis and growing concern about the environment. There is a growing interest in incorporating environmental topics into the English language teaching (ELT) classroom.
Environmental topics in the ELT classroom can include topics such as climate change, sustainable development, renewable energy, and environmental conservation. It approaches to teaching related to the Climate Crisis must be an imperative trend to follow in 2023.
Task-based Learning
Task-based learning (TBL) emphasizes the use of language in authentic & meaningful tasks. It may continue to gain traction as a more engaging and communicative approach to ELT. TBL also involves language students working in groups or pairs to complete tasks. Which requires them to use their language skills in context? TBL has been also shown to be an effective approach to any language learning. As it provides students with opportunities to use language in meaningful ways and to develop the skills. Which are necessary to communicate effectively in real-world contexts. TBL which has been in trend since many years will continue to grow its popularity graph in 2023.