A positive relationship between the student and the target language is as important as the positive relationship between the student and the teacher. The positive learning environment is essential. The classes with my English teacher in primary school were boring. The situation improved in high school, but everything changed when I attended a summer school in Reading, UK. For the first time in my life I enjoyed my English classes; the teachers were so motivating, cheerful, interesting... everything I wanted. I wanted to be like them... I was fascinated by them... and at the age of 20, while still at University, I started working in a language school. I loved teaching so much, and yes, my teachers from UK were my role model! I have been teaching 21 years now and I always try to be entertaining, funny, interesting and motivating for my students. And yes, affective language teaching leads to successful language learning!
Danielle,
ReplyDeleteYou certainly have a powerful definition here.
The challenge here is making sure people who read it have the same concepts about what a real connection, respecting students, and interesting content. Same applies to love and compassion. Many times talking about what seems obvious to us is the hardest part.
I would only add sharing power and build awareness about their learning as important parts of affective learning.
Love discussing and thinking about affective language learning with all of you. What a treat!
I completely agree with your description of affective learning, Danielle! Well-stated!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Karen Frazier Tsai !
ReplyDelete