Information and Speakers

Summer Institute 2024

Schedule

Date/Time 

8:00   -8:50

9:00 – 9:50

9:50  -10:00

10:00  -10:10

10:10  -11:00

11:10  -12:00

Monday, January 29th

The Role of Teacher Leadership in Advancing a National English Language Teaching Program   

by Debra Suarez

Tesol International 

Pronunciation and its significant impact on all four macro skills          by Graciela Martinez

Sponsor 

UDI

Break

Using Linguistic Landscapes to Foster Learners’ Communicative Competence            

by Mauricio Arango

Making Intercultural Language Education Relevant to English Language Teachers

by Carolina Cunha

Tuesday, January 30th 

Using Authentic Materials to Design Engaging and Accessible Lessons     

by Lorena Ojeda

Ourstory Scape

Incorporating Trace Effects into your ELT Classroom Activities              

by Isabel Cubilla

Sponsor

QLU

Break

Let’s spike up our classes with activators!             by Maria Alejandra Mora

Sentence Structure Types                     

by  Rigoberto Mc Farlene

Wednesday, January 31st 

Relational Agility in the English Language Classroom by  Mary Scholl

ICL Costa Rica

Boosting EFL learners’ motivation with personalized lessons                  

by Jessica Rivas 

Sponsor 

UDI

Break

How to engage students in reading sessions ?

 by Roderick Guardia

William Little 

RELO

Thursday, February 1st

Supporting English Language Learners through Rich Text and Media              

by Mikaela Tennis

Britannica Education keynote 

EcoVision 2030: Empowering Change through the Sustainable Development Goals in all classrooms          

by  Marcela Villan 

Sponsor 

QLU

Break

Boosting intelligibility by adapting advanced pronunciation tools for young learners

by Paula Casetta and Julieta Monchon

Michelle Pereira 

  

Friday, 

February 2nd 

Teaching Culturally Responsive Pedagogy: The Panama Experience

by Juan Rios 

Bradley University

Mastering AI: Unveiling the Recipe for Successful Classes                     

by Jesus Gutierrez

Sponsor

US Embassy

Break

Learn to unlearn to innovate               

by Juan Carlos Rodriguez  

Spice up your lessons! 

by Auxi Dominguez 

Conference Information

https://qlu-pa.zoom.us/rec/share/rY9j7irISCZD4MkQ-EsJha0qfHCxo2G6_6vqERqZJ7hXoQ6E1ONtEjjiO1lYhGNm.zE28j5Osrqx5LjuA

Access code: WK6$WYv!

 

Keynote speaker Dr. Debra Suarez

Title: The Role of Teacher Leadership in Advancing a National English Language Teaching Program

Abstract: The teaching and learning of English, in countries around the world, comes with many challenges.  The implementation of a national English Language Teaching (ELT) education program often faces specific challenges, including, the shortage of qualified English teachers, limited resources for English education, such as textbooks and technology, unequal access to professional development opportunities, and high teacher turnover.  Despite these challenges, there are also opportunities for innovation and positive, sustainable change. Teacher leadership has been found to help address many of these challenges and improve the overall quality and success of large-scale implementation of English language educational programs. Definitions of “teacher-leadership” will vary.  However, what is consistent across definitions is that teacher leaders will lead their fellow teachers in improving student achievement, teaching, and learning. Teacher leaders enact specific, school-based strategies, such as, creating a professional learning community, engaging in mentoring and coaching, leading English language practice circles, sharing instructional techniques, creating or supplementing joint classroom materials, and reflecting on and evaluating teaching methods and outcomes. Please join us for this special keynote, where we will discuss teacher leadership, learn how to enact these specific leadership strategies and explore how teacher leadership can overcome some challenges, contributing to a successful national ELT education program, one teacher at a time, and one school at a time. Emphasis will be on encouraging practical application.

Bio: Dr. Debra Suarez is a distinguished professional with a wealth of experience in the field of TESOL/TEFL. As the President-elect of the TESOL International Association, she stands at the forefront of global education. With an impressive array of credentials, including a Ph.D., an MS in TESOL, and an MBA specializing in education business management, Dr. Suarez’s journey has been one of relentless dedication to empowering English language learners, minorities, immigrants, refugees, and ELT professionals.

 As an international educator, Debra’s reach is truly global. She has served as an English Language Specialist under the US Department of State and crafted innovative MA-TESOL programs across Southeast Asia and Latin America. Her leadership extends to the TESOL International Association, where she is the President-elect. With nearly 13,000 members spanning 144 countries, TESOL stands as a global force for advancing ELT professionals’ expertise. Her term in the presidential line (2023 to 2026) promises to drive forward TESOL’s impact and reach new heights. Dr. Suarez’s unwavering dedication and visionary leadership position her as a beacon of inspiration in the field, driving progress and empowerment on a global scale.

 The Panama TESOL community is near and dear to Dr. Suarez. She has worked in Panama, in a few capacities. As a professor at the University of Note Dame of Maryland, she taught graduate TESOL held in partnership with Quality Leadership University (QLU). She was a also a US Department of State ELL Specialist in Panama, during which she travelled to different schools, meeting with teachers and providing workshops.”

Session Type: Talk/ lecture

Audience: All 

Title:  Pronunciation and its Significant Impact on all Four Macro Skills by  Graciela Martinez 

Abstract: Teaching pronunciation is usually relegated favoring grammar and vocabulary instead. In this presentation, Prof. Esp. Graciela Martínez will show how pronunciation plays a central rather than a peripheral role in the learning process and how poor pronunciation can have serious effects on listening, speaking, reading, and writing. She will also suggest possible ways to integrate pronunciation in class.»

Bio: Prof. Graciela Martínez: Specialist teacher in English Language from Universidad Tecnológica Nacional (UTN) with a Diploma in the Pedagogy of Phonetics from Universidad Nacional de San Martín (UNSAM). Teacher trainer (ELT Methodology and Phonetics) at ISFDyT N° 55 in Escobar, BA, Argentina. Assessment specialist, pronunciation coach, and content creator.

Session Type: workshop/ demonstration 

Audience: Higher education, College-level high-school

Title: Using Linguistic Landscapes to Foster Learners’ Communicative Competence by Mauricio Arango

Abstract: Through this presentation, participants examine the potential that linguistic landscapes, i.e., “linguistic objects that mark the public space” (Ben-Rafael et al. p.1, 2006) have to boost their language learners’ communicative competence. Additionally, the presenter shares practical strategies to design, adapt, and implement activities and materials including both American and British linguistic landscape photographs.

Bio: Mauricio Arango holds a Master’s in English Didactics from the Universidad de Caldas in Manizales, Colombia. Along with being an EFL teacher at binational centers and social-academic projects, he has participated in several bilingualism projects all over Colombia. He is currently a Remote Teacher for the English Without Borders program for young people and adults in Bogota. Through his presentations, he mainly shares the design, development, and implementation of materials and resources aimed at enhancing learners’ intercultural competence.

Session type: Presentation 

Audience: High school / University

Title: Making Intercultural Language Education Relevant to English Language Teachers by Carolina Cunha

Abstract: Intercultural language education is an approach to language instruction that goes beyond teaching the mechanics of a language, emphasizing the development of cultural competence and intercultural communication skills. It aims to help learners acquire the linguistic skills needed to communicate effectively in another language and understand and appreciate the cultural nuances and contexts in which the language is used.

Bio: Carolina Cunha has been a teacher for over 20 years. She holds a BA in English and an MA in Sociolinguistics as well as the following certificates: CAE, CPE, TKT, and CELTA. She currently works as a freelance teacher and is the leader of the BRAZ-TESOL Minas Gerais chapter.

Session type: Talk / lecture

Audience: All 

https://qlu-pa.zoom.us/rec/share/IqExyXN0EZn5KwNQFaDqd2IEPY-Bp63z_rcfRAZGQODRxV10zu7Dqv-CGCzdSJFd.h-ZlcxaO7na9LAHA

 Access Code: c#vd8nTG 

Title:  Using Authentic Materials to Design Engaging and Accessible Lessons   by Lorena Ojeda 

Abstract: Create a memorable experience for your students by incorporating creative strategies to present authentic materials for your English classes. Discover the multiple ways you can enhance and provide realistic life experiences for your English learners in their specific areas of knowledge. Join this presentation to explore mind-blowing ideas that take your English classes to a new level. 

Bio: Lorena Ojeda holds a bachelor’s in English Teaching and another in English with a major in Literature and Linguistics. She holds a TESOL certificate. She has worked as an ESL teacher in the USA. She is the Curriculum Support Manager at the US-based editorial, Our Storyscape by Voces Digital.

Session type workshop/ demonstration 

Audience Higher education, Middle school, Elementary

Title: Incorporating Trace Effects into your ELT classroom activities   by Isabel Cubilla 

Abstract: This workshop is based on Trace Effects. It is an innovative video game designed for language learning that is highly motivational for students. With interactive 3-D multimedia learning adventures, this game can complement English language instruction in classrooms. Trace Effects offers a fun and meaningful way for students to interact and solve puzzles in a virtual world filled with diverse English-speaking characters. This game takes students on a dynamic journey through cultural locations in the United States, such as Kansas, New Orleans, the Grand Canyon, New York City, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.

Bio: Isabel Cubilla holds a Master’s degree in ELT Methodology from Universidad Autonoma de Chiriqui and has been teaching for more than 25 years at both secondary and university levels. She has been presenting at local and international TESOL Conferences for the past 15 years. In 2018, she was appointed as the National Director of PANAMA BILINGUE at the Ministry of Education. Currently, she serves as the English Department Coordinator at Universidad Latina de Panama.

Session type: workshop/demonstration

Audience: Higher education, College-level high-school, Middle school, Elementary

Title:  Let’s spike up our classes with activators! by Maria Alejandra Mora 

Abstract: Activators are in-class dynamics that allow learners to disconnect from other tasks and engage in learning. These dynamics foster learner’s interaction and interrelation with peers. Activities also set learners’ tone to move on with content. This workshop aims at sharing a set of activities that allow learners to interact, participate and become present in the language class.

Bio: Ms. Mora with a 25-year teaching experience across ages and audiences, holds a Masters’ in TEFL, a B.A. in TEFL , an SIT Teacher Training Certification, a TESOL Certificate from CUNY and Project-Based Learning Certification from Cengage Learning. She enjoys teaching and learning with peers.

Session type: workshop /demonstration 

Audience: Higher education, College-level high school, Middle school 

Title: Sentence Structure Types   by Rigoberto McFarlane 

Abstract:When it comes to writing assignments, most students, especially second language learners, struggle. For this reason, structure exists in language as well. Knowing sentence forms can help bring diversity to essays and other writing projects; therefore, understanding the various sentence components is necessary before learning the many sorts of sentence models.

Bio: Rigoberto McFarlane is an English professor at the University of Panama (CRUC). Holds master’s degrees in applied linguistics, school administration, and educational research. Has been involved in several community’s outreach programs, conducted workshops on transformational leadership, mentored young adults, and is a PhD student in applied linguistics.

Session type: workshop/demonstration

Audience Higher education, College-level high-school, Middle school, Elementary

https://qlu-pa.zoom.us/rec/share/DfGBV_A3F3slXiA6UMxOoltOE1KjVcUkPZFkp3OVuBI2thRCm-PVOSziR8_uvNxJ.PjmU9WxNT_f-CNrl

Access Code: ti1i&0l?

Keynote speaker   Mary Scholl

Title: Relational Agility in the English Language Classroom  

Abstract: Relational agility is the ability to make strategic, intentional decisions about how to respond to oneself and others in any given moment, with any given circumstance. In this session, we will consider why relational agility is important in language learning and teaching and consider ways of cultivating it in ourselves and our students.

Bio: Mary Scholl, founder of the Institute for Collaborative Learning in Costa Rica, has been working with language learning, leadership, communication, and educational projects for over 25 years.  She holds an MA from SIT Graduate Institute and in 2021 was named one of the top 30 English Language Specialists by the U.S. Department of State.

Session type: Talk 

Audience: All

Title: Boosting EFL learners’ motivation with personalized lessons by Jessica Rivas 

Abstract: Teachers can increase learners’ motivation and engagement by appealing to their interests during the lessons. New technologies (such as Artificial Intelligence) have increased the opportunity to efficiently offer a personalized language learning experience. Thus, this workshop will provide some ideas, tasks, and technology tools for personalizing lessons creatively.

Bio: Jessica Rivas is a Venezuelan EFL teacher and college professor with over 5 years of teaching experience in different settings. She holds a B.A. in Education majoring in Foreign Languages and is currently finishing her studies as an M.A. in Teaching/Learning Foreign Languages.

Session type: workshop/ demonstration 

Audience: College-level high-school, Middle school, Elementary, PK, Other, please specify

Title: How to engage students in reading sessions ?  by Roderick Guardia 

Abstract: The proposal aims to present innovative and effective strategies to engage students in reading sessions, fostering a love for reading that extends beyond the classroom. By employing interactive and immersive techniques, we aim to make reading sessions not only educational but also enjoyable for students of all ages. The presentation will include real-life case studies, testimonials from students and teachers, and interactive demonstrations of some of the proposed strategies to showcase their practical implementation and effectiveness. By embracing these innovative approaches, we believe we can inspire a new generation of readers who view reading not as a task but as a source of joy, knowledge, and lifelong enrichment.

Bio: Roderick Guardia is an English teacher with 16 years of experience teaching in schools. He has outstanding leadership and public speaking skills. He knows American literature and has experience with elementary and middle school students.  He has created and revised an interactive curriculum that integrates reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Incorporated new strategies and engaging learning methods to promote cooperation among students. Incorporated the use of different English teaching methods and audio-visual aids.

Session type: workshop/demonstration 

Audience: Middle school, Elementary, PK

Keynote speaker  William Little -RELO

Title:

Abstract:

Bio:

Session type:

Audience:

Thursday, February 1, 2024

Keynote speaker  Mikaela Tennis  – Britannica Education

Title: Supporting English Language Learners through Rich Text and Media by Mikaela Tennis

Abstract: Participants will explore how to successfully support English Learners through the integration of rich resources and strategies into their curriculum. The session will provide participants with an opportunity to engage in meaningful, collaborative discussions while navigating diverse multimedia resources to demonstrate how rich and authentic the teaching and learning experience can be for both students and educators. 

Bio: Mickey Tennis is an Education Consultant and Bilingual Specialist for Britannica Education. She is originally from the United States but has lived in Queretaro, Mexico for 8 years. She has been an educator for over 10 years, working in the areas of English language instruction and Environmental Education in both Thailand and Mexico. She is TESOL and TEFL certified, as well as a certified Environmental Educator. She holds a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in International Studies, French, and Environmental Studies. She has been with Britannica for two years and currently supports the US and Latin American teams on professional learning facilitation, product training, and customer support. 

Session Type: Talk / Lecture

Audience: All

Title: EcoVision 2030: Empowering Change through the Sustainable Development Goals in all Classrooms by Marcela Villan.

Abstract: In a world facing pressing environmental challenges, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) stand as a beacon of hope. This webinar aims to illuminate the path toward a sustainable future by exploring the significance and implementation of the SDGs in any classroom. It delves into the interconnectedness of these goals, addressing how we can actively contribute to environmental conservation and sustainable practices from any educational context we are in. Through actionable strategies, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding and practical ways to protect our planet. Join us! 

Bio: Marcela Villán is a Teacher of English with a TESOL certification and several diplomas. She has worked extensively in the field and is also a teacher trainer. Marcela specializes in Environmental Education and Global Citizenship Education. She firmly supports the United Nations 2030 Agenda and PBL as a framework for teaching. 

Session type: Talk /lecture 

Audience: Middle school,Elementary,PK 

Title: Boosting Intelligibility by Adapting Advanced Pronunciation Tools for Young Learners by  Paula Casetta and Julieta Mochon

Abstract: This initiative aimed to improve foundational English skills for lower-form students by making pronunciation visual as a core curriculum element. Research led to levelling effective pronunciation training tools such as differentiating letters from sounds, visualizing John Wells’ lexical set, and introducing minimal pairs. Results showed tools empowered students and improved intelligibility.

Bio: Paula Casetta(ARG) Primary school English language teacher currently working at a private bilingual school in Buenos Aires, Argentina, while pursuing a degree in English Language Teaching at ISFDyT N°55 in Escobar. She holds a degree in Graphic Design from FADU UBA where she taught the course “History of Visual Communication in the 20th Century.” Her areas of interest include neuroscience and the development of innovative teaching strategies tailored to students with special needs.»

Bio: Julieta Mochon, born in 1979, in Rosario, Santa Fe. She is studying in the teachers´ training college, ISFDyT n° 55 in Belén de Escobar, Buenos Aires, scheduled to complete in December 2023. She currently works delivering lessons in a private institution, applying new pedagogies to ensure positive learning outcomes. 

Session type: talk/ lecture

Audience: elementary 

Title  -To be announced -by Michelle Pereira

Abstract

Bio 

Session Type

Audience

https://qlu-pa.zoom.us/rec/share/ujTcL_3gYHzWQ6w9MGYzPiBfXvYqqvE_5642m1eKJTKoqx5zQ5z3OnXhkaFcdOQu.baXG2Fgx0fAZ75VE

Access Code: 52y$XIst

 

Keynote speaker  Mikaela Tennis  – Britannica Education

Title: Supporting English Language Learners through Rich Text and Media by Mikaela Tennis

Abstract: Participants will explore how to successfully support English Learners through the integration of rich resources and strategies into their curriculum. The session will provide participants with an opportunity to engage in meaningful, collaborative discussions while navigating diverse multimedia resources to demonstrate how rich and authentic the teaching and learning experience can be for both students and educators. 

Bio: Mickey Tennis is an Education Consultant and Bilingual Specialist for Britannica Education. She is originally from the United States but has lived in Queretaro, Mexico for 8 years. She has been an educator for over 10 years, working in the areas of English language instruction and Environmental Education in both Thailand and Mexico. She is TESOL and TEFL certified, as well as a certified Environmental Educator. She holds a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in International Studies, French, and Environmental Studies. She has been with Britannica for two years and currently supports the US and Latin American teams on professional learning facilitation, product training, and customer support. 

Session Type: Talk / Lecture

Audience: All

Title: EcoVision 2030: Empowering Change through the Sustainable Development Goals in all Classrooms by Marcela Villan.

Abstract: In a world facing pressing environmental challenges, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) stand as a beacon of hope. This webinar aims to illuminate the path toward a sustainable future by exploring the significance and implementation of the SDGs in any classroom. It delves into the interconnectedness of these goals, addressing how we can actively contribute to environmental conservation and sustainable practices from any educational context we are in. Through actionable strategies, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding and practical ways to protect our planet. Join us! 

Bio: Marcela Villán is a Teacher of English with a TESOL certification and several diplomas. She has worked extensively in the field and is also a teacher trainer. Marcela specializes in Environmental Education and Global Citizenship Education. She firmly supports the United Nations 2030 Agenda and PBL as a framework for teaching. 

Session type: Talk /lecture 

Audience: Middle school,Elementary,PK 

Title: Boosting Intelligibility by Adapting Advanced Pronunciation Tools for Young Learners by  Paula Casetta and Julieta Mochon

Abstract: This initiative aimed to improve foundational English skills for lower-form students by making pronunciation visual as a core curriculum element. Research led to levelling effective pronunciation training tools such as differentiating letters from sounds, visualizing John Wells’ lexical set, and introducing minimal pairs. Results showed tools empowered students and improved intelligibility.

Bio: Paula Casetta(ARG) Primary school English language teacher currently working at a private bilingual school in Buenos Aires, Argentina, while pursuing a degree in English Language Teaching at ISFDyT N°55 in Escobar. She holds a degree in Graphic Design from FADU UBA where she taught the course “History of Visual Communication in the 20th Century.” Her areas of interest include neuroscience and the development of innovative teaching strategies tailored to students with special needs.»

Bio: Julieta Mochon, born in 1979, in Rosario, Santa Fe. She is studying in the teachers´ training college, ISFDyT n° 55 in Belén de Escobar, Buenos Aires, scheduled to complete in December 2023. She currently works delivering lessons in a private institution, applying new pedagogies to ensure positive learning outcomes. 

Session type: talk/ lecture

Audience: elementary 

Title: Unlocking the Gateway to Fluency: The Crucial Rol of Grammar in EFL Teaching by Michell Pereira

Abstract: This abstract underscores the crucial role of grammar in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teaching, emphasizing its foundational importance for effective communication. It discusses how a strong grasp of grammar is vital for learners to express themselves accurately, highlighting its multifaceted impact on language acquisition. Additionally, the abstract explores how grammar serves as a structural framework for developing various language skills and fostering self-confidence and motivation among learners. Ultimately, it concludes that grammar instruction is fundamental for equipping students with essential tools for effective communication in the global community.

Bio: Michell is passionate about teaching languages as a foreign language. She brings a decade of experience as an English teacher, catering to students ranging from elementary to university levels. She specializes in creating a positive and imaginative learning environment, adept at developing innovative approaches to motivate and challenge students, fostering a deeper understanding. She is certified as C1 within the CEFR and as a Translator and Interpreter (SETEC, code MDT-3104-CCL-274303), her affinity for grammar complements her commitment to nurturing effective language acquisition.

Session Type: workshop/ demonstration 

Audience: Middle school / elementary 

https://qlu-pa.zoom.us/rec/share/xOEOoY9XL7asRo_UFwzhrM9F8upQtzXCG-J-oW1EQWE7lIC9odQPMgkGXgxQigCH.Py_jFYwgQNP98zdv

Access Code: #7A^Dz6F

Keynote speaker  Dr. Juan Rios 

Title : Teaching Culturally Responsive Pedagogy: The Panama Experience by Dr. Juan Rios

Abstract: In this presentation, the author will critically explain how the use of Panama’s content standards can allow English teachers to use a culturally responsive approach to enhance English as a new language (ENL). Attendees will be able to have a deeper understanding about how social issues such as poverty, lack of water, discrimination, and inequity can be used as springboards to learn both content and language. Finally, the author will share his own experiences teaching culturally responsive strategies in Panama with undergraduate and graduate students.

Bio: Dr. Ríos earned a Master’s of Education in Curriculum and Teaching with Emphasis in English as a Second Language (ESL) from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (2006); received National Board Certification in English as a New Language/Early Adolescence through Young Adulthood in 2009; received his doctorate in Philosophy in Educational Studies, Cultural Studies Concentration from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (2014), Women’s and Gender Studies Certificate and North Carolina Principal License (2014). His areas of research include: English Language Acquisition, Multicultural Education, Critical Race Theory, Latino/a Critical Theory, and Social Justice in Education. In 2015, he published his first book Counterstorytelling Narratives of Latino Teenage Boys: From Vergüenza to Échale Ganas. In 2020, Dr. Ríos published High School Latinx Counternarratives: Experiences in School and Post-graduation. This book was selected as one of the 2021 Critics Choice Awards Books by the American Educational Studies Association (AESA). Currently, Dr. Ríos is an Associate Professor in the Department of Education, Leadership, and Counseling at Bradley University.

Session type: Forum Q-A

Audience: Higher education,College-level high-school,Middle school,Elementary 

Title: Mastering AI: Unveiling the Recipe for Successful Classes by Jesus Gutierrez 

Abstract: It is not a secret that the impact of AI on teaching has been profound. Despite assurances that AI is a valuable ally, many teachers still have doubts about its implications. In this presentation, participants will explore the essential components of embracing AI confidently so that teachers can integrate different tools into their classes effectively.

Bio: Jesus Gutierrez is an accomplished educator and technology enthusiast. With a master’s degree in Applied Linguistics, Jesus has dedicated 21 years to teaching, specializing in the integration of technology to enhance learning experiences. In his current role as a freelance consultant, Jesus focuses on assisting schools and teachers in implementing artificial intelligence to revolutionize education.

Session Type: Talk/ lecture

Audience Higher education,College-level , high school,Middle school, Elementary

Title:  Learn to unlearn to innovate by Juan Carlos Rodriguez 

Abstract: Can a new teaching method, a course program, or a class be good, even if it is not innovative? Many negative answers can come to respond to this question. The new ideas we have and new inventions can be innovative in one form or another, the point is that they must have an impact on our lives.

Unlearning involves questioning our assumptions, challenging our beliefs, and being open to new perspectives. Relearning is the process of learning something again, often in a new or different way. It involves building on previous knowledge and experiences to gain a deeper understanding of a subject or skill.

It is therefore important for teachers who make decisions to use new strategies to know how to recognize true innovation. Unfortunately, that is not easy, as the word “innovation” carries so many meanings even though it is a “fashion “word nowadays.

Different people use the word “innovation” with one or more meanings for different purposes. In addition, there can be an emphasis on the product, process, or method. In language teaching, for example, innovation is usually thought of as a process of research and implementation in order to achieve tangible benefits, but at the end the results count. It is important to understand that learning English entails “unlearning” the discomfort we are taught about such things as double negatives or the use of auxiliary verbs for example. Nowadays learners demand a dynamic, interactive, and collaborative approach to enjoy the English class.

The twenty‐first century demands not only that we learn new forms of social engagement but also that we unlearn habits that have been useful in the past but may no longer be valuable to the future. Teachers have ‘un‐learned’ the role of Sage‐on‐the‐stage as the dominant model of teaching that we used to have and the shift to Guide‐on‐the‐side ( constructivism )has served an important function in changing the focus of pedagogy from the teacher to the learner.

Here are what appear to be the top six innovations according to our language program English 4u2cr that have been a success. 

• Motivation for learning English 

• Friendly teaching 

• Communicating with people online. …

• Online authentic materials

• Students steering their own learning. …

• Teaching soft skills and critical thinking skills. ( communication, teamwork, and adaptability)

Bio: Professor Juan Carlos Rodriguez has a Degree in English Teaching, Universidad Nacional, and Universidad Latina , Costa Rica . Lic. Degree in Educative Administration, Universidad Santa Lucía, Costa Rica. He is the Founder and Professor of the Language Program English4u2 cr, and English Professor in Public and Private Universities in Costa Rica ( Universidad Nacional, UNED, Ulatina  and INVENIO University). He has participated in different National and International Seminars and Congresses for English Teachers as a presenter. 

Session type: Talk

Audience : All 

Title : Spice up you lessons by Auxi Dominguez Garcia 

Abstract: I invite you all to embark on  a mission to revitalize the classroom experience. In this talk we will discover creative strategies and dynamic techniques to spice up our lessons. Join us and get some activities to put into practice in your next class. We will try to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary and leave your students craving more from every lesson. Get ready to spice up your teaching journey!

Bio: Auxi Dominguez is a knowledgeable English teacher with 19 years of experience teaching English as a second language. She is motivated to help students develop a high level of proficiency in reading, speaking, listening, and writing in English.

Session: type talk/ lecture

Audience: Higher education, College-level high school.