Creating transformational learning experiences in teenage classrooms

Kate Smook of Millfield Enterprises provided an insight into two programmes in her presentation 'Creating transformational learning experiences in teenage classrooms' at the Future of English Language Teaching Conference.

Teenagers often approach their lessons with a degree of apathy, particularly in the summer school setting. This can make teaching them difficult for even the most skilled teacher especially when they hear the familiar chant of ‘play games’ on a daily basis. Is it possible to foster truly transformational learning and keep the fun element too?

At Millfield English Language Holiday Courses, we believe that it is both possible and essential. Learning is a process carried out by students rather than the end result of what teachers do. Therefore, students need to be placed at the centre of the classroom curriculum and programmes should be designed to meet individual needs rather than a traditional ‘one size fits all’. It is also important to recognise that learning is not confined to the classroom and embrace the potential in every situation.

This presentation explored two programmes that have been developed developed as a result of these beliefs. One where students choose their own programme and one where they discuss and debate issues which are relevant to their own experiences, while learning about themselves and their place in the world. Both of these programmes, although different in approach, have at their heart the desire to place students at the core of learning and to create personalised opportunities for them to develop language and life skills which will equip them to take their place in the world as young adults.

There was opportunities for participant discussion and reflection about how the principles could be incorporated into other teaching settings.