Speaker
Description
Traditional approaches to English language education often struggle to ignite the passion and engagement of teenagers, hindering their learning potential. Thus, this interactive workshop aims to address the growing need to equip educators with cutting-edge strategies for teaching teenagers in the era of artificial intelligence (AI). Project-based learning (PBL) offers a powerful framework for fostering deeper engagement and 21st-century skills development while digital technology integration presents possibilities for enriching the learning experience of this age group. This workshop builds on recent research findings by Beckett and Slater (2018), Arabloo et al. (2021) and Zaafour (2024) that highlight the effectiveness of PBL and digital technologies in enhancing learning experiences and fostering collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and student engagement.
Participants will engage in hands-on activities to design and implement PBL units integrating digital technologies for research, collaboration and communication, content creation and presentation. By the end of the workshop, participants will develop a deeper understanding of the theoretical foundations of PBL and technology integration. Through guided practice and interactive discussions, teachers will explore practical strategies and frameworks for scaffolding language learning in PBL contexts and fostering a more engaging and effective learning environment. Additionally, participants will also gain insights into addressing potential challenges and maximizing the benefits of PBL with the incorporation of digital tools. Recommendations for teachers, curriculum developers, and trainers will be discussed, highlighting the potential of technology-enhanced PBL for future English language teaching.
Keywords: project-based learning (PBL), digital technology, teenage learners, student engagement, 21st-century skills
