New Directions in Languages: The UK and Europe

1. New Directions in Languages:The UK and Europe Marina Mozzon-McPherson University of Hull TNP2 New Learning Environments -The European Space

2. The learning environment created by new technologies, enabling e(lectronic)-learning and teaching and in the future also, m(obile) learning, i.e. ICT enhanced language learning and teaching; • The learning environment created by new human resources available through mobility i.e. use of the presence and experience of multilingual and multicultural staff and students for language and culture learning and teaching purposes.

3. Pre-requisites for a successful use of NLEs and ILL approaches • Appropriate and adequate technological infrastructure; • Training of students and staff in flexible and appropriate use of NLEs; • New pedagogical solutions, new learning approaches, new learning culture; • Institutional policies and support;

4. Pre-requisites for a successful use of NLEs and ILL approaches • New strategic management skills, mentality and attitude change at both individual and institutional levels; • Close co-operation and collaboration and sharing of information and experience. • Critical thinking and evaluation skills needed to make informed decisions

5. Key areas addressed by the report • language teaching and learning • promoting multilingualism and cultural diversity • training programmes for languages and language-related professions • continuing education programmes or courses • promoting European co-operation Needs in the area of new learning environments

6. NLEs in language teaching and learning • The integration of NLE in language teaching and learning • for language students; • for students of other disciplines; • as a preparation for professional life. • Policies underlying the integration of NLEs • New learning strategies: the introduction and promotion of independent language learning (ILL) • Development of learning materials

7. NLEs in language teaching and learning • Redefining the profile of the actors involved • Training programmes and courses for language teachers: in-service programmes, staff development • Measuring proficiency: Assessment and self-assessment • Action researchon the implementation of NLEs

8. Promoting multilingualism and cultural diversity • Promoting the learning of the less widely used and less taught languages • Promoting cultural understanding and intercultural awareness • Accessing authentic resources and materials • Student and Staff Exchanges

9. Training programmes for languages and language-related professions • NLEs and the training of language teachers • NLEs and the training of translators and interpreters

10. Needs in the area of new learning environments • language teaching and learning • the promotion of multi-lingualism and cultural diversity • promotion of European co-operation • provision of language learning to students with special educational needs

11. Some suggested measures at European level • to reduce the amount of bureaucratic red tape to obtain funding; • to standardise platforms to ensure easy access of resources and expertise and overcome the complexity of some environments; • to create a European Teaching and Learning Network serves as a main port of call for dissemination of information;

12. Some suggested measures at European level • to foster research on the issues identified and encourage European projects which integrate research to development; • to create post-graduate and professional programmes whose validation can be recognised by European Institutions and be included in universities career structures.

13. New Directions in Languages:The UK and Europe WHAT MAKES A LEARNING ENVIRONMENT NEW? INNOVATIVE?

14. New Directions in Languages:The UK and Europe WHAT SHOULD A EUROPEAN LEARNING SPACE INCLUDE?

15. New Directions in Languages:The UK and Europe HOW CAN UK UNIVERSITIES CONTRIBUTE TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF A EUROPEAN LEARNING SPACE?