Pixel International Conferences

This paper introduces a project for an innovative online system of language learning that seeks to improve motivation through narrowly targeting a multilingual or otherwise language-loving audience that is to either benefit from a significantly reduced cost of lessons or generate actual profit. A subscription-based online platform is to enable learners to form pairs and conduct classes in accordance with both the desired language at hand and the two users’ proficiency levels as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) or a relevant equivalent. The learner whose level is lower in the selected language is to only pay for the “gap” between their and the other learner’s proficiency. In other words, let us assume that A and B have decided to study Italian together. A’s level is A2, whilst B’s level is C1. Therefore, as the difference in proficiency between the learners is three levels, A will be asked to pay three times the price per level as defined in the platform. In contrast, A may choose to study with C, whose level is also A2, in which case there will be no monetary exchange (similarly to a “language exchange” situation). In order for proficiency levels to be evaluated as accurately as possible, all users are to be considered as having a 0 (pre-A1) level unless they can demonstrate language ability via a recognized language certificate. Additionally, users that prove especially high multilingual ability (e.g. owning two C2-level certificates in different languages) are to benefit from a special “mentor” status that comes together with a higher rate of profit when attending classes in any language (encouraging their desire to learn multiple languages and resting on the principle that “language” can be taken as a common concept, its acquisition being continuously enhanced through the study of any specific language).

Keywords: multilingualism, student-teacher relationship, online language learning, language certificates.

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