Speakers
Description
This study explores the use of pair-work and group-work activities as effective strategies to motivate students and enhance their English learning results. Pair and group work, characterized by interaction, collaboration, and learner-centeredness, are widely recognized for their potential to increase student engagement, promote communicative competence, support active learning (Johnson, Johnson, & Smith, 1998; Richards & Rodgers, 2014). These collaborative strategies then help create a dynamic and inclusive classroom environment where students take greater responsibility for their learning (Brown, 2001; Slavin, 1995). Delivered in a workshop format with theoretical insights and practical classroom applications, the presentation will showcase examples of pair and group activities implemented with 398 university students and discuss on how to adapt to various teaching contexts and learner needs. The session aims to equip participants with insights and hands-on ideas for integrating these interactive methods into their own teaching practices, echoing Vygotsky’s (1978) sociocultural theory which emphasizes the importance of social interaction in cognitive development.
Biography
An Duc Nguyen has been working as a university lecturer of English at Tay Bac University in Northwest Vietnam since 2008. She was awarded to study in Vietnam, Thailand and the USA. Her research interests include EFL, English for community, English for employability, English for Minorities. She has presented at numerous national and international conferences and conventions in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia and the USA. As an active and enthusiastic language educator, she has been funded (by RELO, US Embassy, British Council, Son La Doet, Son La Youth Union, the National Project, Aus4skills) to serve as a teacher trainer, organizer, coordinator and/or leader in a range of professional development projects with the hope to contribute to her community's socio-economic and educational development. She is the founder and leader of VietTESOL EdTech group, as well as the core team member of VietTESOL K-12 PD. With her tireless efforts, she was been awarded the title of the outstanding innovative young teacher from 2019 to 2021. She can be reached at annd@utb.edu.vn
