ERIC Number: EJ1307249
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2019-Aug
Pages: 9
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-2165-2554
EISSN: N/A
The Language Commons: An Innovative Space Supporting Second Language Acquisition
Giering, Judith A.; Fitzgerald, Hope
Journal of Teaching and Learning with Technology, v8 spec iss p33-41 Aug 2019
In 2015, language faculty and administrators at the University of Virginia met to evaluate the needs of the more than 20 language programs offered on campus. A priority emerged for language-learning space better equipped to facilitate authentic interaction and communication. The committee conceived of an alternative language-learning space that would be motivating, collaborative, and inviting and offer a variety of technologies in support of innovative teaching and learning. Now in its second year of operation, the Language Commons facilitates formal and informal learning activities for students and faculty that are aligned with current theory and practice in second language acquisition. Language faculty utilize the space for innovative instructional activities that might otherwise be limited by small, inflexible classroom spaces. This article describes the development of the Language Commons from initial conception through design and the rich array of activities occurring in the space, featuring examples of faculty uses of commons spaces and technologies. Preliminary outcomes suggest the Commons is valued for its support of student motivation, lowering of anxiety, and opportunities for community engagement and as a place to disrupt classroom hierarchies and routines.
Descriptors: Second Language Learning, Second Language Instruction, Learning Activities, Cooperative Learning, Learning Motivation, College Faculty, Language Teachers, Informal Education, Authentic Learning, State Universities, Instructional Innovation, Instructional Design, Student Motivation, Language Laboratories, Educational Facilities Design
Indiana University. 107 South Indiana Avenue, Bryan Hall 203B, Bloomington, IN 47405. Tel: 317-274-5647; Fax: 317-278-2360; e-mail: josotl@iu.edu; Web site: https://scholarworks.iu.edu/journals/index.php/jotlt
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Virginia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A