Publication Outline

Publication Topic:

Enhancing Language Learning in K-12 Classrooms by Integrating TPRS, CI, and Online Technology to Foster Growth Mindsets

Introduction: Overview of the topic

A growth mindset is important in education as it encourages resilience and a focus on learning and improvement. In language learning, this mindset helps students persist through challenges encountered in second language acquisition. While traditional teaching methods such as TPRS (Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling) and CI (Comprehensible Input) are effective in promoting language acquisition, adding a technology component enhances the student's overall experience and increases engagement. Additionally, technology is playing an emerging role in modern language classrooms, enhancing traditional methods and providing new opportunities for engagement and personalized learning.

Purpose of the article

The purpose of the article is to offer strategies for combining traditional foreign language teaching techniques with online platforms that encourage students to take ownership of their own learning journey while cultivating a growth mindset gained through small successes viewed from instant feedback provided by online technology, thereby creating a growth mindset in language learners.

Understanding mindsets in language learning

1. Fixed vs. Growth Mindsets

•  Definition and characteristics of fixed and growth mindsets.

•  Discuss how these mindsets affect language learning.

1. Psychological barriers to learning ( fixed mindset, participation)

• Common negative beliefs and attitudes towards learning a new language.

• Fear of participation.

• Impact of these barriers on student motivation and performance.

Introduction to TPRS and CI

1. Overview of TPRS

• Explanation of TPRS techniques and benefits.

• How TPRS fosters engagement and retention.

1. Overview of CI

• Explanation of CI techniques, how they differ from TPRS, and their benefits.

• Benefits of providing comprehensible input to learners.

Integrating online platforms with traditional language learning techniques.

1. Introduction to online foreign language platforms

• Overview of popular platforms (e.g., Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, Babbel).

• Features that support language learning (interactive exercises, gamification).

1. Blending TPRS and CI with Technology

• How to incorporate TPRS storytelling techniques with online activities.

• Using CI principles to select and utilize online content effectively.

1. Introduction to Online Content Gamification Platforms

• Overview of educational gamification platforms that enhance learning (e.g., Kahoot, Quizziz).

• Features that support learning in general (interactive exercises, gamification).

• Differentiation is easier with the use of online platforms creating individualized lessons for students thereby creating a significant learning environment.

Benefits of instant feedback in online platforms

1. The role of instant feedback

• How instant feedback promotes a growth mindset in student perception of their own learning.

• Examples of feedback mechanisms in online platforms.

1. Enhancing TPRS and CI with instant feedback

• Strategies for integrating feedback from online platforms into TPRS and CI activities.

• Real-time assessment and progress tracking techniques.

QTALK an online language curriculum  

1. How QTalk combines TPRS and CI into its online platform

• Introduction to QTalk.

• How QTalk successfully integrated TPRS and CI into its online foreign language platform.

• How it works, and why it is successful.

Overcoming challenges

1. Addressing obstacles to the foreign language blended classroom

• Solutions for issues like technology, student engagement, and resistance to new methods.

1. Resources for teachers

• Professional development opportunities for learning about TPRS, CI, and technology integration.

• Recommended workshops, webinars, and online courses.

Conclusion

1. Recap 

• The importance of shifting students' mindsets from fixed to growth.

• The role of TPRS and CI and online platforms in a blended classroom.

1. Recommendations

• Encouragement for teachers to experiment with integrating these methods.

• Emphasis on the long-term benefits for students' language learning journeys.

• Recommended readings.

• Useful online tools and platforms with links.

Assignment Questions/Requirements: 

Innovation Plan:  Blended learning in the foreign language classroom

The goal of this plan is to incorporate a digital component into the Spanish curriculum, creating a blended classroom environment that enhances the student learning experience while continuing to use traditional foreign language teaching methods such as CI and TPRS. It will also facilitate easier differentiation in the classroom. Additionally, the project aims to shift students from a grade-focused mentality to one that rewards effort and from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset.

Publications considered for submission of article

1. Language Learning & Technology: A refereed journal for second and foreign language scholars and educators

2. Edutopia   

3. ACTFL's official quarterly magazine: The Language Educator Magazine
   

How can this information help others?

This information is valuable for foreign language teachers of any language. The article offers a fresh perspective on teaching by incorporating commonly used methods within a blended learning environment, utilizing online technology that aligns with the modern world and the learning styles of today’s students.

Lessons learned or hope to learn?

How to integrate contemporary foreign language teaching methods with online platforms that enhance student engagement and stay current with evolving modern technology.

What digital resources will be included in the article? Describe

• Foreign language online platforms like Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, and Babbel will be introduced.  Each of these platforms is a language learning platform where students learn a second language through online activities. 

• Educational content gamification platforms like Kahoot, and Quizziz can boost student self-confidence with instant feedback. Both platforms are content-based gamification platforms where teachers can create lessons or activities to reinforce lessons directly taught in the classroom by the teacher. 

• QTALK - an online foreign language curriculum will be introduced.  QTalk is a symbol-based language learning platform.

Think of your audience, digital presence, and the message you hope to communicate.

I hope to communicate the need for teachers to step out of their comfort zone and use all technological resources available to them to engage the modern foreign language student in a blended classroom environment and encourage students to take ownership of their own learning with the use of online foreign language platforms like DuoLingo and Quizziz among others.

References:

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TED. (2014, December 17). The power of believing that you can improve | Carol Dweck | TED 

[Video].  YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_X0mgOOSpLU

TED. (2013, May 9). Grit: The power of passion and perseverance | Angela Lee

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