Teaching a Foreign Language Online

Abstract

The methodologies for language teaching have evolved over the years to learner centered and inclusive pedagogies. The focus has been on interactive communicative and task-based teaching methodologies. With the class moving online, there is a need to develop new activities and creative tasks to engage learners in foreign language environment. The present paper highlights the need for language teachers to take the role of facilitator and engage leaners in online-based activities and tasks. The paper also lists some online-based tasks and activities which can generate noticeably greater desire to learn the language and eventually, higher comprehensible language output. Employing a wide range of collaborative project-based tasks gives learners opportunity to develop their vocabulary to express varied concepts, handle authentic language input and gradually the language creeps into learner’s daily life without an intentional effort. A continuous and enthusiastic support of the teacher is imperative for generating greater interest in learners and for accomplishing these objectives.