Innovation in Language Learning

This presentation introduces an innovative framework that challenges traditional language pedagogy by fundamentally reimagining Language for Specific Purposes (LSP) course design and teacher preparation. Moving beyond the theory-driven approaches characteristic of General-Purpose Language courses, this model pioneers a learner-centered methodology where professional context determines curriculum innovation. The framework presents four ground-breaking teacher competencies that revolutionize LSP instruction. Adaptive teaching flexibility transforms traditional rigid lesson structures into dynamic, responsive pedagogical environments where educators seamlessly navigate between planned curricula and spontaneous professional dialogue. Enhanced professional listening skills represent an innovative departure from general language comprehension, focusing on industry-specific communication patterns and authentic workplace challenges. Strategic authentic material curation innovates traditional textbook-based approaches through systematic evaluation frameworks for professional relevance and cultural authenticity. Most significantly, authentic material transformation introduces cutting-edge techniques for maintaining professional authenticity while ensuring accessibility, creating scaffolded learning experiences from real-world workplace documents. This innovative methodology addresses critical gaps in current language education by directly connecting linguistic competence with professional performance. Unlike conventional approaches that separate language learning from professional application, this framework integrates authentic workplace communication as the foundation for curriculum development. The presentation demonstrates practical implementation strategies that represent a paradigm shift toward truly contextualized, professionally-relevant language education that meets 21st-century learner needs.

Keywords: Language for Specific Purposes, authentic materials, teacher training, curriculum innovation, professional communication

REFERENCES

[1] Trace, J., Hudson, T., & Brown, J. D. (2015). An overview of language for specific purposes. In J. Trace, T. Hudson, & J. D. Brown, Developing Courses in Languages for Specific Purposes (pp. 1–23) (NetWork #69) [PDF document]. Honolulu: University of Hawaii. doi: http://hdl.handle.net/10125/14573

[2] Long, Mary K. (ed.) (2017). Language for Specific Purposes: Trends in Curriculum Development. Georgetown University Press, 2017. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctt1ps3169.

[3] Kastberg, Peter. (2018). "Languages For Special Purposes As Instruments For Communicating Knowledge". Languages for Special Purposes, edited by John Humbley, Gerhard Budin and Christer Laurén, Berlin, Boston: De Gruyter Mouton, 2018, pp. 26-44. https://doi.org/10.1515/9783110228014-002.