DIGI-LINGO Project Update: Advancing Digital Language Education

08/05/2024

As we navigate the landscape of digital education, have you ever wondered what lies beyond the horizon for language learning in Europe? Well, wonder no more! The DIGI-LINGO project continues to make significant steps in revolutionising language learning across Europe. The first semester of 2024 has been marked by innovative seminars and collaborative partner meetings, shaping the future of language education. Here is a recap of our recent achievements and a glimpse of what lies ahead:

1. Teacher Seminar in Brussels:

In January of 2024, educators from partner schools met in Brussels for a two-day seminar. The event started with an exploration of the "Future Classroom Lab" at European Schoolnet, setting the stage for discussions on innovative teaching methodologies. Through interactive sessions and hands-on experiences, teachers delved into digital planning, execution, and assessment strategies for language teaching and learning. The further development of the DIGI-LINGO method based on Blended Learning was the cornerstone of the seminar, but the benefits of teachers coming together across schools and national borders were countless, transcending geographical boundaries.

2. Successful Seminar in Bergen:

Building on the seminar from Brussels, the DIGI-LINGO meetings continued with a transformative seminar in Bergen. Hosted by Vestland Fylkeskommune, this gathering delved into the nuanced integration of AI and 21st-century skills in language education. Participants were immersed in practical applications, visiting Nordahl Grieg videregående skole and Amalie Skram videregående skole - two relatively new schools in Bergen, and engaging in classroom experiences. The exchange of insights among schools from Denmark, Belgium, Norway and the Basque Country  brought a lot of teaching experiences to the table. They showcased their toolbox of innovative methods, including the enchanting "Book Creator" for crafting captivating classroom content.

3. Third Partners Meeting:

The recent partners meeting in Bergen served as an important point in our collaborative endeavour. Over two days of intensive discussions, partners reviewed project milestones and laid the groundwork for future achievements. Key highlights included the refinement of digital teaching guidelines and the formulation of an organisational model for virtual language teaching and exchange. Professor Barbara Wasson's from SLATE (Center of the Science of Learning and Technology) presentation on AI further refreshed the collective vision for digital pedagogy.

Looking ahead, excitement comes as we prepare for the digital teaching guidelines and the organisational model for virtual language teaching and exchange, but also the final conference in November 2024. This hybrid event, to be held in Brussels, promises to be a culmination of our shared learnings and aspirations. As we come towards our goal of enhancing European youth's foreign language skills, the DIGI-LINGO project remains committed to fostering innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity in language education.

Stay tuned for updates as we continue to shape the future of digital language learning together.