Developing self-access materials for hybrid classrooms | Webinar for teachers | Cambridge English

Summary

In this webinar, George Heritage and Victoria from Cambridge Assessment English discuss the development of self-access materials for language learners. They explore the benefits, key elements, and challenges in creating such resources, offering practical ideas to overcome potential issues. The session covers the importance of clear instructions, objectives, and assessment criteria, as well as strategies for integrating skills and providing differentiated learning experiences. The presenters also touch on the use of technology for feedback and assessment, highlighting tools like Write and Improve, Read and Improve, and various interactive platforms suitable for different learning contexts.

Takeaways

• 😀 The webinar focused on developing self-access materials for learners, highlighting their benefits, key elements for creation, and overcoming challenges.
• 🏆 Self-access materials are beneficial for reinforcing class content, supporting learner autonomy, and providing supplementary resources for various student needs.
• 🔑 Key elements for creating self-access materials include clear objectives, simple instructions, skill integration, and consideration for different learning strategies and types of learners.
• 🎯 Self-access materials should align with learning objectives and real-life skills, providing meaningful and manageable goals for students.
• 📚 The importance of clear and concise instructions was emphasized, especially in an online context where misunderstandings can be more common.
• 🤝 Differentiation is crucial, with materials needing to cater to various levels of learners and offer extension activities for stronger students.
• 🕵️‍♂️ Assessment and feedback are vital components of self-access materials, promoting student reflection and improvement.
• 🌐 Challenges in creating self-access materials include finding a balance between online and offline resources, ensuring accessibility, and managing time effectively.
• 🛠️ Tools and resources like Google Classroom, Padlet, and various assessment platforms can aid in the organization and delivery of self-access materials.
• 📈 The webinar suggested using structured activities and success criteria to guide students through self- and peer-assessment processes.
• 🔍 The importance of continuous experimentation and adaptation was noted, as the best self-access materials often come from iterative teaching and learning experiences.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the webinar?

The main topic of the webinar is developing self-access materials for learners in the context of English language education.

Who are the presenters of the webinar?

The presenters of the webinar are George Heritage and Victoria, both working at the Madrid office for Cambridge Assessment English.

What are some of the benefits of self-access material for students?

Self-access materials can help reinforce and consolidate class content, support learner autonomy, provide supplementary resources, offer differentiation, and increase flexibility in lessons.

When is self-access material particularly useful in a flipped classroom setting?

Self-access material is particularly useful in a flipped classroom setting as it allows students to review and reinforce material before class, engage with content at their own pace, and free up class time for more interactive activities.

What are some key elements to consider when creating self-access material?

Key elements to consider include clear objectives, accessibility, low or no cost, clear instructions, relevance to different types of learners, authenticity, and the need for differentiation.

How can self-access materials support project work and presentations during lessons?

Self-access materials can provide students with additional resources to prepare for project work and presentations, allowing them to practice and refine their skills outside of class time.

What is the importance of clear instructions in self-access materials?

Clear instructions are crucial as they enable students to use the materials effectively without needing additional support. They should anticipate potential difficulties and guide students through the learning process.

How can self-access materials promote learner autonomy?

Self-access materials promote learner autonomy by allowing students to decide when and how they want to engage with the material, making choices about their learning path and pace.

What is the role of assessment and feedback in self-access materials?

Assessment and feedback are essential for students to reflect on their learning, understand their progress, and identify areas for improvement. It also helps them become more familiar with assessment criteria, fostering independence in learning.

What are some challenges faced when creating self-access material?

Challenges include finding a balance between offline and online content, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all students, providing timely and effective feedback, and creating engaging and relevant materials that promote learner motivation.

What are some strategies to overcome the challenges of creating self-access material?

Strategies include using a combination of online and offline resources, designing materials that are inclusive and accessible, setting clear and achievable objectives, providing structured feedback mechanisms, and regularly checking in with students to address any issues they may encounter.