Abstract:
This presentation explores how filmmaking activities in classrooms may contribute to 21st Century Skill development in language learners. 33 participants at two Japanese universities enrolled in language courses with filmmaking and community showcasing. Through surveys, observations, and self-evaluations, the teacher-researchers examined how teamwork, project tasks, technical challenges and community interaction contributed to skills like collaboration, communication, creativity and problem-solving among the groups. Attendees can gain practical insight on successfully implementing filmmaking activities with language learners.

Bio 1: Ashley Ford-Mihashi Rooted in Applied Linguistics and Computer-Assisted Learning (CALL), and with a deep passion for the Arts, Ashley Ford-Mihashi, actively implements Project-Based Learning (PBL) and Performance-Assisted Learning (PAL) in her language classroom, especially through filmmaking, music, art, and drama activities. She is a lecturer in the Language for Global Citizenship Program at Nagoya City University and organizes the Reel Voices Language Learning Film Festival.

Bio 2: Kinsella Valies is an Assistant Professor at Jissen Women’s University and Aoyama Gakuin University. With a background in Cinema and Photography, TEFL, and Applied Linguistics, her research interests include filmmaking in the classroom, speaking assessment, and Black Women’s experiences in Japan. A dedicated contributor to JALT, she has held numerous leadership roles and is currently chairing the Nominations and Elections Committee. Her recent work includes JSPS-funded research on student empowerment through film festivals, and she is part of the Reel Voices Language Learning Film Festival team. Kinsella is also a Kevin Cleary Invited Speaker.