Posted on by Nuria Egam

Students lean into learning with tech-based learning at New College Group

At the New College Group, we constantly strive to deliver the most engaging, innovative and technologically enhanced learning environment for our students. We’re extremely proud to now be bringing the latest devices in to our schools and offer a higher level of tech-based learning to our students than typically found in the ELT classroom.

Introducing New College Group’s Techno-Hubs

Our state of the art techno-hubs in Liverpool and Manchester are large and welcoming spaces. Tables accompanied by soft and comfortable seating provide students with access to fully interactive tablets, complemented by the Prowise digital whiteboard. This affords them the opportunity to ‘lean into’ their learning, for more engaged lessons.

Each techno-hub’s space also has an inviting beanbag area, which provides the perfect base for watching films, reading or playing games.

A tech-enriched teaching environment can provide a wealth of benefits for learners by encouraging them to apply their knowledge of English through increasing interaction and discussion with one another as well as working to improve their creativity and evaluation.

Technology to aid learning in the ELT Classroom

The techno-hubs will enable students to participate in a host of engaging activities to support and enrich their language learning and development. This can take the form of Group Work:

• participating in collaborative webquests using Google
• working in teams Kahoot-style quizzes
• creating collaborative writing projects using google docs, blogging, padlets etc

Design:

• digital presentations and posters
• producing videos and podcasts
• comparing graphics and images

Gamification:

• getting adventurous with investigation games and QR codes
• creating vocabulary games using Quizlet or similar tools
• using digital apps and playing educational games installed on the tablets
• playing a selection of online ESL games and activities
• playing with the Active Teach interactive software built into the ProWise/IWB board

Other web-based activities:

• commenting on and annotating web pages
• connecting with other classrooms via Twitter or other social media platforms
• exploring Google Earth and Google maps
• watching films and television programs to aid class discussion

As well as offering these cutting edge language learning methods, the hub space will also be utilised for a wide range of traditional classroom activities including group discussions, drama performances, creating learning resources and reading from a variety of materials such as SpeakOut and Pearson books.

By incorporating both digital and non-digital resources and tools into our English Language courses, we are able to meet the individual learning styles of all students, exposing them to a varied and engaging learning journey that will bring a host of lifelong benefits.