Speaker
Description
This presentation explores how integrating visual arts into English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction can enhance motivation, language acquisition, and learner confidence—particularly in primary and lower-secondary classrooms. Grounded in Krashen’s Affective Filter Hypothesis and supported by cognitive research (Hardiman, Rinne, & Yarmolinskaya, 2014), arts integration is shown to promote memory, reduce anxiety, and strengthen core skills including vocabulary, fluency, and pronunciation.
In a pilot project with Grade 6 and 7 students in a mountainous region of Vietnam, weekly language tasks were designed around arts-based activities such as collage-making, clay modeling, and visual storytelling. These activities, aligned with specific language objectives, encouraged student autonomy, critical thinking, and multimodal expression. Teachers observed increased participation and risk-taking, while student feedback reflected greater enjoyment and confidence in using English.
This session offers language educators a framework for integrating art without requiring formal art instruction. Participants will explore adaptable lesson ideas, strategies for assessment, and examples of student output. The approach is context-sensitive, cost-effective, and inclusive, making it highly suitable for resource-limited classrooms.
By showcasing how creative expression can support both language and identity development, this presentation aligns with VietTESOL 2025’s theme of innovation and learner-centered practices. Attendees will leave with practical tools to enrich classroom engagement through the transformative power of art.
Biography
Dao Thuy Nga, an English teacher at Quyet Thang Secondary School in Son La city, Son La province, has long been regarded as an inspirational figure. She is extremely passionate about studying and teaching English. As part of the American English (AE) E-Teacher Program, she has finished a number of MOOC courses offered by World Learning in order to hone her expertise and better prepare her for the local and global teaching and learning demands of the Era 4.0. She shared her insights at the VietTESOL International Convention in 2017, 2019, 2022, 2023 and 2024. She has also facilitated multiple K–12, VMOOC, and Share_it_ Viettesol webinars. (RELO).
Funded by the Regional English Language Office (RELO), U.S. Embassy, She attended the “Integrating Critical Thinking Skills in Exploring Culture as a Foreign Language (EFL) English as Foreign Language setting” online course. What is more, she has also been an active member of Microsoft Innovative Educators (MIEs) of Vietnam and has been nominated as an MIEE – Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert in 2022. She can be reached at: daothuyngaparis@gmail.com/ https://www.facebook.com/nga.dao.3979
