Page 29 - ELG2410 October Issue 492

INTERVIEW

Q: How has NILE integrated technology Competence in technology should not However, in many contexts, this approach
into its MA programmes? define the level of engagement in our courses. doesn’t work because teachers don’t have that
Even when NILE first started, the program had online accessibility. So one of the big learning
a technologically mediated element to it. We’ve Q: You acted as a project manager for points for several schools and institutions in
always been at the forefront of this, and have NILE on the British Council Partnered the UK was how to run an online development
invested heavily in a bespoke VLE (Virtual Remote Language Improvement course on WhatsApp or Telegram.
Learning Environment). Our focus is on project (PRELIM) in which UK Language Also, some institutions in the UK have had
supporting both synchronous and asynchronous Institutions worked in partnership with a shift in business plans. Before it was about the
environments with learning technologies. English Teaching Associations all over classic model: overseas students coming into the
We’ve developed a range of functions, the world to support classroom practice. country to learn English. But some schools have
including video, live sessions, discussion forums, What worked well and what impact has now shifted. They’ve become more agile and are
Padlets, and Google tools. This has positioned the programme had? bidding for programmes overseas, whether it’s
us well, especially during the lockdown when The most important thing in PRELIM is the ‘P’. training, materials development, or consultancy.
we supported other institutions in moving their It’s not ‘we are giving you stuff’. It’s not that old
learning online. NILE founded AQUEDUTO top-down form of support. PRELIM is more like Martyn Clarke is the
too, which supports and accredits online ‘you’re professionals, we’re professionals, and Programme Leader of the MA
teacher education. we’re going to work together’. in Professional Development
The project has worked well because the for Language Education at
Q: Working at NILE, what is the single two partners, the teacher association and Norwich Institute for Language
best practice you have found for the institution in the UK, get together and Education (NILE). He has been an ELT
incorporating technology into language say, ‘Right, how are we going to make this professional for 30 years and in more than
education? happen? What is it we need to achieve? fifteen countries in UK, Europe, Central
The single best practice for incorporating What would be most helpful for your America and Africa as a consultant teacher
technology is not a technological aspect. teachers?’ trainer and management advisor.
It’s maintaining the primacy of supportive This is much better than coming in with a
colleague interaction. premade solution to a problem that you hoped Fabio Cerpelloni is a writing
Our technology solutions work because existed, which I don’t think works. teacher, freelance writer,
we have a dedicated team supporting tutors The learning during the project was often blogger, ghostwriter, author,
and students in their interactions with the quite substantial. For example, the first two English language tutor,
technology. We have robust systems and years were about teacher development. In an YouTuber and podcaster.
useful technological functions, but the quality online, partnered, remote, program this would You can learn more about him and his work
of our online team and the support they traditionally be delivered through Zoom, at www.fabiocerpelloni.com.
provide are crucial. Teams, PowerPoints, etc.

Readers

Over 125 non-fiction levelled

readers for ages 3–11

Q Q

Power up non-fiction reading skills and knowledge
to help children become reading superheroes!

• Provide young English language learners with
exposure to authentic, real-world content
• Immerse students in language learning and develop subject
vocabulary as kids explore the exciting world of dinosaurs,
animals, natural wonders, and more
• Find the right titles for your students with titles mapped to the
CEFR and help build confidence with carefully levelled content
• Build contextual knowledge while progressing reading skills Q
and developing a love for reading
Q Discover more online!

Find out Follow the QR code on the back cover to find free Super
Reader resources, including comprehension quizzes to
more boost understanding and foster critical thinking skills.

editorial@elgazette.com 29