1. Study group #5 Distance learning enhanced by technology
Sylwia Marta Wrześniewska, PhD
Polish Armed Forces School of Languages, Łódź
NATO BILC Conference, Lisbon,

2. Description & outcome
E-learning, blended-learning, mobile-learning and other types of distance learning enhanced by technology (old and new) are a current trend regarding ways to promote transformational learning and teaching processes. This Study Group will examine different factors that lead to more engaged learners, effective lessons and increased efficiency. The Study Group members will consider the following: strategies for managing and assessing learner progress; keeping learners motivated for self-paced and directed learning; pros and cons of the use of any type of distance learning methods enhanced by technology; the selection of teaching materials and multimedia, and best practices. The Study Group will produce guidelines for designing and implementing successful distance learning language programs within the military.

3. Introduction - current trends across countries

4. Distinguishing between
Definitions
Distinguishing between
e-learning
blended learning
mobile learning
distance learning

5. Most frequently mentioned features
Technology driven Assisted by digital tools Interactivity involved Electronic resources applied Network enabled transfer of skills and knowledge Anytime & anyplace learning

6. Challenges
Security issues, using intranet Budgeting, additional pay for teachers Working out of regular hours Copyright across countries SME support & training for teachers Productive skills training Low-level & high-level tasks Time consuming endeavour Different pedagogical approach needed Language level appropriability issue

7. Motivation/ Course design
Clear and interesting design
Professional look
User-friendly environment
Engaging & interactive activities
Straightforward goals and instructions
Deadlines and unambiguous rules
Preparation for curriculum contingencies
Set communication channels & routines

8. Motivation/ Course content
Proper load of information
Drip-feed content
Start slowly
Adjust the difficulty level
4 skills – possible?
Age, rank, gender & nationality as factors

9. Motivation/ The role of the teacher
Turn the overshoulder teaching mode on
Stimulate students’ autonomy
Engage and reward students
Support and respect the students
Be creative
Be a manager
Track students’ progress
Discipline should not be teachers’ responsibility
Provide prompt feedback
Be visible and available – office hours

10. What is needed for success?

11. Needs assessment considering target audience
Acquirement of proper platform, hardware and software
Implementation with proper pedagogical approach
Training for teachers and students
Measurement of success/ Feedback from students
Reevaluation of the technology and the current system, as a part of internal external program validation

12. Conclusions
Technology adds to teaching and does not replace it. It is only a tool in the hands of a teacher.
Never implement technology for the sake of technology, prestige or cutting cost.
Do not be technology driven but be driven by pedagogy.
Enhancing teaching by technology is not equivalent to reducing the manpower and workload.
Students are social creatures and need connection and collaboration with others.

13. Recommendations Creating the community of practice BILC SharP Purpose:
to exchange ideas and experience
to brainstorm
to troubleshoot
to share papers

14. THANK YOU