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Sessions /
Motivation and meaningful connection in the changing classroom #1340

Sat, May 15, 11:00-11:25 JST | Zoom 5
You must log in to view sessions Learner Development Short presentation

The main goal of language learning is undoubtedly social. We all have a strong desire to connect with others in meaningful ways, sharing experiences, exchanging information, or collaborating. Apart from language skills, connecting with others in meaningful ways requires intrinsic motivation, self efficacy, social and emotional intelligence as well as other traits or states that make up interpersonal competence (Spitzberg, 1989; Goleman 2006). This presentation will discuss key issues affecting relationship building and communication in the modern classroom through demonstrating activities and strategies for improving interpersonal skills and meaningful connections in both early and higher education contexts. These include storytelling, collaborative video projects and interactive presentations, all of which can help to provide learners with opportunities to develop empathy, self-awareness, active listening, critical thinking, assertiveness, sensitivity, and tolerance of differences. With the rise of online learning, social media-based interaction, and social distancing norms, making ‘real’ connections with others is becoming increasingly rare and difficult. By using relationship-building strategies to become better communicators, learners can develop multiple competencies and a multilevel awareness needed for making meaningful and interpersonal connections.

Andrew Reimann

Andrew Reimann

Aoyama Gakuin University
Andrew Reimann is an associate professor and language program coordinator in the English Department at Aoyama Gakuin University in Tokyo. He has a PhD in applied linguistics, focusing on intercultural communication and materials design. He teaches classes on comparative culture and intercultural communication. His research interests include raising cultural awareness, communication strategies, and media literacy. Recent publications include Culture Studies Handbook, Culture in Context (Intergraphica Press, 2016) and Humor for Cross Cultural Analysis (TESOL, 2017).
Natsuki Suzuki

Natsuki Suzuki

Aoyama Gakuin University
Natsuki Suzuki teaches three different public elementary schools in Tokyo and is on the cusp of being awarded her master’s degree from the English Department of Aoyama Gakuin University. She researches the type and nature of motivation that is most effective for supporting children’s successful learning, both in the classroom and beyond. Her research interest also includes storytelling, music and magic as ways to teach, inspire and make children smile.