contextualized (english) classes: make them relevant!

By Barbara Moran msbmoran.com

Contextualized Courses

Make English Classes Relevant

By Barbara MoranM.A. Education


What is contextualizing?It isn’t new! It was first proposed by John Dewey (early 20th century) It suggests that learning is more relevant and effective if tied to the learner’s life and goalsThis is especially important for learners trying to acquire work skills and/or a better station in life, particularly in an accelerated time frame


Consider EnglishThere are two primary learning groups

Four-year transfer studentsVocational/professional

Both need English proficiency but for different uses


What Are the Standards?

All students are expected to meet the same institutional goals and objectives related to specific coursesSo how can the same course best serve students with differing needs?Contextualize the content within the course to fit the individual needs of learners!Tailor courses to provide assignment options


Why Offer Basic Courses Online?Cost-savings for students by using OERsFlexibility – It is possible to offer one online English course that gives students assignment options based on their programs of studyAccessibility – Students have the option to take the course(s) around work and family schedules, reducing the drop-out risk


As the White House put it:

“Develop online courses: Colleges could create open online course materials such as interactive tutors, simulations, and multimedia software that can help students learn more, and learn better, in less time.”

https://www.whitehouse.gov/issues/education/higher-education/building-american-skills-through-community-colleges


“Customizing”1. Makes the “learning experience” meaningful2. Makes the “learning experience” relevant3. Makes the “learning experience” a seamless part of overall training programs


Try these for fun!Cause and Effect writing – what topics could a culinary student choose?Process writing – what topics could a welding student choose?Descriptive writing – what topics could a nursing student choose?Classification writing – what topics could a criminal justice student choose?


Learn moreContextual Learning

http://cet.usc.edu/resources/teaching_learning/learn/contextual_learning.html


