- What are the biggest challenges Greek students face in learning English - confusing spelling, pronunciation, syntax?
Greek students usually lack the proper pronunciation and the basic concept on how to utilize the language instinctively. There is the notion that when students start learning a language, they must be exposed to basic grammar elements and vocabulary. That of course is true, however, it’s just part of the whole deal. From day one, their minds must be stimulated by all receptive skills via acoustic and visual elements. Critical thinking tasks are also key to the whole process as productive skills in the form of speaking and writing should not be in any case neglected. I’d rather my students learn to properly pronounce a word and make use of the correct syntax, rather than focusing solely on endless grammar structures which would seem tedious to them. Having said this, any challenges Greek students might face when learning a language could stem from the chosen material for the lesson.
- You are also an oral examiner. Many oral examiners complain that learners’ vocabulary is poor. What factors affect vocabulary learning?
Truth be told, learners nowadays actually struggle to possess a solid range of vocabulary. In some cases, the vocabulary given is limited and consolidation is insufficient. Students would then make an effort to compensate by memorizing lists of words they deem essential. There is a difference, however, between accumulating a lexical range and actually knowing how to use it. Rote learning will only get you so far and the absence of critical judgment as regards the way to implement it, will lead nowhere. Inadequate practice, lackluster educational materials which fail to actively engage the reader, even fear of misuse are the main catalysts to this issue.
- What are the barriers to fluency?
There is a misconception that fluency can be achieved by focusing on basic vocabulary and having students orally practice it with multiple repetitions. They may eventually remember a few words but in the end, they’ll struggle to use the language as they fail to understand its meaning and context. Stephen Krashen, a linguist and educational researcher whom I greatly admire, had rightfully stated that learners of a second language would often listen without engaging in oral exchanges. This process is essential to the learner as it would change the way the brain would process the language and the way it is perceived. The learner will progressively differentiate between tones and words, focusing on key pronunciation – all this without even speaking. Inhibiting any form of receptive skill with the goal of focusing on grammar and vocabulary cannot be redeemed by speaking activities alone. Fluency is the result of a multitude of prerequisites, be it visual, audio or both. In the end, the learner will eventually flourish, as long as we adhere to his constant exposure to stimuli.
- Most classes in Greece are teacher-centered - children facing their teacher who controls subject matter, talk, and activities from the front of the room. However student-centered teaching environments are more effective. They motivate and engage students. Why is it so difficult to make this shift?
Teachers in some cases are afraid to get out of their comfort zone. There are many who adhere to old and tried methods, often reluctant to sample new techniques in class. The concept of altering said environment to a student-centered one would seem inconceivable to even the most experienced of teachers. Do they dread the outcome of such an approach? Is it self-doubt of one’s ability to manage such an environment? I must point out that trying new practices in class is a part of our job; even if the outcome is failure for some inexperienced teachers. Nonetheless, lack of experience can be resolved by attending trainings and academic lectures organized by publishers. Through professional growth we are capable of adjusting the lesson to the needs of the students, giving our one hundred percent, which is something we owe them. My advice would be to adopt the materials offered by experienced publishers. The countless hours of research as well as the practical applications within the classroom, are proof in itself that it works. Student-centered environments are no doubt the quintessential spaces to promote ‘C’ skills such as collaboration and communication; twenty-first century skills which are not only in high demand in the workplace, but are crucial for survival in our modern-day society.
- Is CLIL, STEAM etc. a method or a trend?
Unfortunately, I’ll say both. When does a method become a trend? There are those who would exploit innovative teaching practices as marketing techniques to serve their own purposes. What breaks my heart is seeing these innovations sacrificed for the sake of marketing. Just because someone titles an activity as CLIL or STEM, doesn’t mean it will suffice. Educators who are eager to administer these methods should be well-educated and trained in order to identify the ones compiled correctly. Fortunately, English language teachers acknowledge the publishers and ELT trainers who have concrete knowledge of such methods and trust them accordingly to offer proper training and resources.
- How has Covid-19 changed you as a person and a teacher?
Even though I am quite the extrovert, when it comes to work, I am rather seclusive. I prefer isolation which makes me more productive. I enjoy getting lost in my work and thrive when I reap the end result. Having said this, Covid-19 benefitted me professionally as an author. As a teacher I was deeply affected, since my students are a significant part of my being. Not being able to socialize with them took a toll on me. It did, however, offer me the proper motivation to surpass myself as an educator, adopting new teaching methods and trying to reach out to them. In the end, I came to better appreciate what I had and took nothing for granted.
- What is the main point you’d like readers to go away with?
I am a restless individual who strives to utilize and adopt innovative approaches to teaching. As educators, we have a responsibility to implement new methods that will in turn push students to the best of their abilities and achieve the desired results. Keep an open mind. Trust your instincts. Be welcome to accepting challenges. As an author, I can tell you this: Every element included in ELT publications has been meticulously compiled with great attention to detail. Give it a shot. You won’t be disappointed.
