Innovation in Language Learning

This research comprises three sub-studies exploring methods to enhance students’ social and academic engagement [1] and boost spoken interaction competence in higher education. In the first sub-study we experimented gamification [2] in the second telecollaboration [3] and social media, and in the third multimodality (Kress & van Leeuwen, 2001) [4] and video calls conducted in pairs. All studies employed the blended learning approach with a focus on authentic learning and student collaboration. The participants (N=71) are higher education students from two fields: healthcare and business administration. Four data collection methods were used: reflective learning diaries, online questionnaires, semi-structured interviews and a Facebook-log. The qualitative data were analysed by content analysis method which provides procedures for rigorous analysis methods [5]. The findings suggest that well-designed blended learning courses augment student social and academic engagement and enjoyment of learning. Teacher support, collaboration, and appreciative learning environment were identified as key factors; the research highlights the reciprocal relationship between student and teacher engagement. The findings underscore the paramount importance of the teacher's role throughout the learning process. While proficiency in contemporary digital tools is essential, this does not diminish the significance of teachers' mastery in core pedagogical competencies such as subject matter expertise, pedagogy, facilitation, and interaction. The results also suggest that successful spoken interaction development hinges on student agency.  With appropriate support from peers and teachers, coupled with regular interaction, students cultivate self-compassion and error tolerance in relation to their own language skills.  This, in turn, fosters enjoyment of regular spoken activities in the target language, ultimately leading to positive contributions to spoken interaction.  Similarly, the development of self-reflection skills empowers students to identify areas for targeted practice, further enhancing their spoken interaction abilities.