English language learning has always been in the spotlight as one of the most in-demand languages to learn around the world. Its relevance is well known as practically the international lingua franca in many aspects like business, international politics, education, and research, among others.
This demand has made it a core target of study for many schools around the globe. Educators use countless techniques and approaches to make English language learning fun, motivating, engaging, meaningful and real!
English language learning is indeed a motivating and practical experience, and we know that the latest methodologies focus on the active use of the language through engaging activities in which the learner takes ownership of their own learning in a meaningful, purposeful way. Examples of these activities are role plays, discussions, debates, games and many more; all these to bring language to the classroom in and use it as a communication vehicle and not as the ultimate academic goal. Education environments that understand this, have already very motivated students where attractive learning does take place.
But can we take it up to the next level? Of course, we can - and technology is a strong ally! Taking English learning to the next level is as simple as exploring the countless possibilities international interactions with schools around the world whose educators hold a shared passion for meaningful, collaborative learning and global awareness. This is where we see English language learning become real. At Copol, when we connect with students from BSS Gurukulam in Kerala, India through Zoom sessions, our students and teachers become cultural ambassadors of our country; English becomes authentic and goes beyond the classroom and even the continent to allow students to communicate in a meaningful and purposeful way with peers from another country and culture.
Our students from eighth and ninth grade have been able to establish these interactions where they present the most iconic landmarks and cultural traditions about Ecuador to students in Kerala, India at the International school of BSS Gurukulam. This international learning experience requires preparation, collaboration, critical thinking, investigation and creativity to present our country to children and educators across the border. Just as importantly, it requires our students to open their minds and hearts to embrace and appreciate Indian culture. How is this deep interaction possible? Through English, of course. In this way, the language becomes a tool to present our country, acquire knowledge about other cultures, and ask insightful questions that trigger real connection.
In tenth grade, Copol students have the opportunity to connect with students from Union Day School in Matthews, North Carolina. Through Zoom sessions, American and Ecuadorian students have the chance to interact and interview each other, sharing insights about their students’ lives, cultural customs and traditions.
Beyond live sessions, asynchronous interactions like pen pals offer another brilliant way to connect and allow cross-cultural collaborations. Our fifth-grade students had the chance to exchange letters with pen pals from Mount International School Community in Cairo, Egypt. Here they introduced themselves, described their daily lives and talked about their home countries. Technology was again a great benefit since the interaction was carried out through scanned handwritten letters through emails. Similarly, our third-grade students shared a wonderful experience with Xavier International School in Nepal. Their task was to exchange hand-drawn postcards and record video greetings explaining the meaning behind their drawings. In these experiences, our young learners became aware of the impact it signifies mastering a different language, which acts as a bridge across cultures and countries.
Going beyond the classroom walls is no longer just about teaching a language using interesting approaches, techniques or games; it is about opening doors to the world. By having our students interact with peers in India, The U.S., Egypt or Nepal, we transform learning into an authentic human experience. At Copol, we continue to enhance an education without borders—where English language unites us to shape real global learners ready for the world!