Innovation in Language Learning

The paper presents current Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) practices in Russian universities. The Russian context, its historical and ideological background, challenges and direction are briefly explained in order to figure out the way of using the approach in the university setting. CLIL is clearly on its way to becoming an option – not yet an obligation – for mainstream students in Russian universities. The overview by the authors does not only address the bright and positive side of the coin, but also gives some critical points as well as highlights possible routes for improvement. In order to understand what improvement is adaptable and eligible for the Russian HE system, the needs-resources analysis was conducted with the base on the cultural and social context and pedagogical considerations from students’ and teachers’ perspectives. Russian specificities claim that as CLIL focuses on both the content and the target language it therefore requires strong collaboration between subject and language teachers that entails the development of some learning and teaching strategies attuned with the main outcomes of the educational program. The principles of such alignment are also discussed. The data obtained can be used to draft new, more effective didactic models against the background of internationalization and globalization of education.