Event Report, Gunma Chapter August 2019

5th Dual MyShare Event Sunday August 25th: Episode 2
Duangsamorn Haruyama, currently a preschool teacher at Gunma Kokusai Academy and a part-time teacher at Gunma University, talked about the Montessori-Inspired Learning Centers at GKA Preschool. At the GKA Preschool, they provide learning centers for their preschoolers to learn through play after finishing the main English curriculum tasks (about 10-20 minutes/lesson). The learning centers were inspired by the Montessori Method. There are 8 main centers: Mathematics, Science, Art, Language Art, Social Studies, Reading, Fine Motor Skill, and Seasonal Themes. These learning centers provide a safe and friendly play environment to support young English learners’ development.
Tyson Rode, an assistant professor at Meikai University, spoke about making discussion of global topics accessible to L2 students through performance-based assessment. In an increasingly globalizing world, language instructors strive to teach students the communicative and academic skills necessary to engage in research and discussion on current issues. In order to improve students’ confidence and abilities in discussing global topics in an integrated English language skills program, Rode and his research colleague Patrizia M.J. Hayashi employed a curriculum design in which performance-based assessment is a key component. This presentation described in detail two performance tasks created from the intended learning outcomes to the task procedure and evaluation methods.
Jeff Contreras, an Associate Professor in the Education Center at Gunma University, spoke about Chat Time!
This presentation demonstrated an original approach for effectively conducting the “Water Cooler Chat” activities that are featured in the Widgets, Inc. (Second Ed.) textbook. It also introduced how to properly use lanyard nametags for communication purposes. Through this approach, students gain an understanding of the complexity of everyday of communication and learn how to overcome general communication obstacles.
Fuad Olajuwon, who teaches at Tokyo University of Science, introduced his analysis of cloze techniques in self-accessed language learning contexts. The purpose of this presentation was to analyze the efficacy of cloze testing in Self-Accessed Language Learning (SALL) platforms within the online applications Clozemaster and Apps4EFL. Utilizing an assortment of online-based programs as a supplement for comprehensive language learning, students can develop linguistic prowess while strengthening their command of L2 expressions.