Speaker
Description
Experiential learning—learning through direct experience and reflection—has become increasingly relevant in secondary education for its ability to promote deeper, more lasting understanding. Based on David Kolb’s experiential learning theory (1984), this study explores how the four stages of his learning cycle—concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation—can be applied effectively in Vietnamese high school English classrooms. The report highlights the benefits of experiential learning, such as increased student engagement, enhanced critical thinking, and improved language use in real-world contexts. In response to the need for more dynamic and student-centered teaching methods, three practical strategies are introduced: (1) Organizing real field trips connected to textbook topics, such as “Ecotourism” in Tiếng Anh 10 (Global Success); (2) Conducting virtual field trips using digital platforms like Google Earth, Virtual Vacation, and Google Arts & Culture; (3) Integrating AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini, Character.ai) to create interactive English-speaking environments. These strategies were piloted with 41 Grade 10 students. Findings indicated significant increases in student engagement, critical thinking, and contextual language use. Students moved from passive learning to active participation, with observable gains in vocabulary, fluency, and communicative competence. The learning environment also became more positive and less anxiety-inducing, fostering greater confidence and enthusiasm.The study concludes with recommendations for teachers, including designing reflective learning tasks and providing ongoing formative feedback. It calls for a broader adoption of experiential learning to create more engaging, communicative, and effective English language classrooms.
Biography
Trần Ngọc Châu is a high school English teacher with a background in Education at the master’s level, continuously seeking ways to enhance her teaching practice. Based in Vietnam, she is passionate about applying educational technology to make English instruction more engaging and learner-centered. She actively explores innovative pedagogies that bridge theory and practice. Drawing on David Kolb’s experiential learning theory, Ms. Châu emphasizes the use of real-world activities, digital tools, and reflective learning to foster communicative competence in EFL students. She has experimented with strategies including field trips, virtual tours, and AI-integrated tools in an effort to promote student engagement and improve language skills. In addition to her teaching, She regularly takes part in professional development workshops and collaborates with fellow educators to advance active learning in Vietnamese secondary schools. Her recent research suggests that experiential learning plays a significant role in fostering confident, communicative, and motivated English learners.
