Distance English Language Learning
Today is April 24, 2024
Distance English Language Learning (DELL)
A space for bringing English speakers at all levels together as a means of facilitating the second/foreign language learning process.
Contents
Welcome
Hello and welcome to distance language learning English. This site is designed to offer English courses 100% online for both credit-seeking and non-credit-seeking English language learners (ELLs). ELLs are taken through a series of weekly "quests" as facilitators and coaches (i.e., teachers) guide and develop the language learning process. Learners are expected to be self-motivating and willing to reflect on their own learning. Since this is an open course, ELLs are likely to receive feedback from a multitude of places: various teachers, other ELLs, etc. For credit-seeking ELLs however, individual grades will be given out by a single facilitator or coach.
This online open course can be used in a variety of ways. Although this course is offered completely online, it will also serve as a viable source in blended course settings and for those who simply want to practice their English outside a formal educational setting. The amount of participation is completely open for those non-credit-seeking ELLs.
Even though this is an open course, there are beginning and ending dates in addition to the following characteristics (mainly for credit-seeking ELLs):
- Each level will consist of the equivalent of 80 hours of college-level coursework.
- Asynchronous and synchronous communication is expected.
- ELLs will be expected to complete both norm and criterion-referenced tests.
- Class sizes will not exceed 15 learners.
- Expect to spend at least six-to-eight hours per week studying for this course.
Facilitators: Credit-seeking ELLs (CSELLS) will have one facilitator responsible for distributing grades, but the course is designed so that different language educators or fellow ELLs may provide feedback throughout the course. Assignments and due dates will be part of the CSELL's final grade.
The first course is scheduled for the fall of 2010. Since this is an open course being offered on a wiki, the success depends on the involvement of a variety of individuals as opposed to a single person. So all stakeholders (i.e., educators, learners, parents, community leaders, etc.) are encouraged to contribute either directly to this wiki or by offering comments/suggestions by clicking on the discussion.
Getting Started
- If you are an undergraduate student at the UAA and are seeking credit for the course, contact the PFLE/PFSI for registration dates and procedures (August of 2010).
- Sign up to the distance language learning ning.
- Install audacity or similar program on your computer.
- Install necessary software for microphone (required) and webcam (optional).
- Review concepts.
Courses
A1-B2 based on the Common European Framework
Level I (A1.1) - 0-80 hours of study
Level II (A1.2) - 81-160 hours of study
Level III (A2.1) - 161-240 hours of study
Level IV (A2.2) - 241-320 hours of study
Level V (B1.1) - 321-400 hours of study
Level VI (B1.2) - 401-480 hours of study
Level VII (B2.1) - 481-560 hours of study
Level VIII (B2.2) - 561-640 hours of study
Connecting Language Learners
Synchronously:
Educators 2.0 (live conferencing platform)
Language Exchange Group
eTandem Learning
Language Exchange-MU
Live Mocha
Mixxer
My Language Exchange
WiZiQ
Asynchronously:
Moodle
Wikis
Blogs
VoiceThread
Skype Partner List
Virtual Worlds
Technology Required
Technology required for taking this course:
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Technology Required
Implementation and Delivery of Information:
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Assessment
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References
Anderson, N. (1999). Exploring second language reading: Issues and strategies. Heinle ELT.
Wiggins, G. and McTighe, J. (2005). Understanding by Design. Prentice Hall.
