Abstract of Irina Barilenko
A Modular Approach to ESP Distance Learning Course Designing
Irina Barilenko
SESC NSU, Novosibirsk, Russia
Abstract
Face to face learning performance of students and teachers within the Specialized Educational Scientific Center (SESC NSU) was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic and paved the way to the implementation of Modular Distance Learning (MDL). The rationale behind using modular curriculum is that students should develop their language skills rather than their knowledge about the English language so that they can effectively attain their communication needs. The use of modules encourages independent study. Learning is most effective when the learner is the initiator of the learning process. The main challenges that emerged were students struggle with self-studying; teachers separate the content of language teaching materials to involve the learners. Students engage themselves in learning the concepts presented in the module based on the learning activities (e.g., assigned readings, a reading quiz that asks processing questions, interacting with peers on the text, etc.) and objectives. English for Specific Purposes (ESP) combines subject matter and English language teaching, like a combination, is highly motivating because the SESC learners can apply what they have learned in their English classes to their field of natural sciences studies such as in mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, and engineering. In ESP, English should be presented in authentic contexts to acquaint the learners with the particular ways the language is used in functions that they will need to perform in their specialty fields. The areas of our students’ interests vary from the history of the Russian Academy of Sciences, missions to Mars and math modelling to learning with comics and graphic novels, the startup for automating reforestation and living with no energy. The education-friendly platform Google Classroom has brought the benefits for our teachers and students of sharing modular materials, appropriate assignments, comprehensive assessment, and digital collaboration to classrooms.
Keywords: modular distance learning, module, English for specific purposes, authentic context