Task Based Learning and
learning circles
A social constructivist approach to
language learning
MySN in context
What is Task Based Learning?
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Task-based language learning (TBLL) is a
method of instruction in the field of language
acquisition.
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It focuses on the use of authentic language, and to
students doing meaningful tasks using the target
language; for example, visiting the doctor,
conducting an interview, or calling customer services
for help.
Assessment is primarily based on task outcome (ie:
the appropriate completion of tasks) rather than
simply accuracy of language forms. This makes TBLL
especially popular for developing target language
fluency and student confidence
Why use TBL?
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(1) Learners need regular exposure to the target
language in meaningful social (communicative) contexts.
They need a lot of comprehensible language input.
(2) Learners need frequent opportunity for the active
use of the target language in communicative
situations. They must learn to produce comprehensible
output.
(3) Learners need a strong motivation for language
learning for else they will not make the long and
sustained efforts needed for coming to grips with the
lexical and grammatical system of the target language.
(4) Well-timed instruction in form and content to
help a learner take the next step in her/his language
acquisition process.
The role of the teacher..
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Compared to traditional form oriented approaches which
divide the learning process into the three or four phases
(warming-up) -presentation – practice – production e.g.
the PPP-Model and Neuner), in TBL the role of the
teacher changes from that of an instructor and
prosecutor of errors to that of a supporter and
inventor of tasks which her/his learners enjoy doing.
It proved useful to divide the learning process in TBL in
three phases: The pre-task phase, the the doing of
the task, and the post-task phase. Taken together
they form a task cycle. The major role (task) of the
teacher changes from phase to phase. It also has a
different focus in work with beginners than in work with
advanced students.
Some examples…
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Language village (The Netherlands)
Language camps (Vietnam)
SpeakUp (developed by Dutch students)
Museum Project
Excursion BaBe
MySN (TBL in the context of a learning
circle)
What is a learning circle?
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Learning Circles are highly interactive,
project-based partnerships among a
small number of schools located
throughout the world
In a Learning Circle learners share
their knowledge and experience, learn
new information and apply and test new
skills.
Why use a Learning Circle?
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A Learning Circle makes learning more efficient, since
reports, demonstrations and learning experience are
shared among the members of the circle.
A Learning Circle provides an interactive learning
situation. Teaching and training involve communication
with people, and it is difficult to develop skills without a
group of people to offer constructive criticism.
A Learning Circle gives essential feedback to learners
from colleagues who are working on the same body of
skills and information, and whose suggestions on
techniques and resources are hence particularly
valuable.
A Learning Circle offers the opportunity to organize
events, workshops for which numbers of people are
necessary
Operative principle of MySN
Step 7 : voting
for the winner
Step 1 :
selection event
Step 2 :
invitation
partner schools
Step 6: activities
and feedback
Step 5 :
publishing events
Step 3 :
briefing of
pupils
Step 4 : events
under construction
What role can TUE (teachers and
students) play in the process?
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Step
Step
Step
Step
Step
Step
Step
1:
2:
3:
4:
5:
6:
7:
Assigment learning circle
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Design the basic thema for a learning
circle for your own subject.
Learning Circles are highly interactive, projectbased partnerships among a small number of
schools located throughout the world
 In a Learning Circle learners share their
knowledge and experience, learn new information
and apply and test new skills.
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Statement : From now on a learning circle
is an integral part of the curriculum
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Advantages LC
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Disadvantages LC
Conclusions
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Tbl
Learning circles