For this professional development webinar, Richard Whiteside discussed the benefits of getting students to do digital projects as a way to build 21st century skills and global awareness. He also provided practical ideas and tips for doing digital projects with your class, using examples from Eyes Open and Uncover. Catch up with the recording below!
Richard began by stating that digital projects can be very interesting to students, and a great way to get them motivated. The idea that the work they have produced will have an audience (be that via presenting the finished project, or putting it online) can add to that motivation.
So what are digital projects?
Richard unpacked this to look at what is a ‘project’ in it’s own right. Respondents shared that group work, creating something, problem-solving, tasks, were all key definitions of what they believe a project is.
A digital project then, is something that requires online research, and more specifically a project with a digital outcome/end-product, which can then be shared online to create an audience. A few examples include: video, picture-collage, slideshow, audio-slideshow, podcasts.
How can digital projects be conducted?
Richard suggests project work can link nicely to existing coursebook material. He uses examples from Eyes Open and Uncover, which has a lot of cultural topic content, for a digital project to be based upon. An example includes researching a typical school day in a different country, to show contrast between cultures, and creating a digital project to present this.
What connections can be made between digital projects and global 21st century skills?
What connections can be made between digital projects and global 21st century skills?Richard outlines defined 21st Century skills as follows:
@nutrich: Research has identified a range of 21st century skills e.g. creativity and critical thinking #cupwebinar pic.twitter.com/765aoysalf
— Cambridge ELT (@CambridgeUPELT) January 24, 2017
In the webinar he goes on to share how digital projects can help promote these skills, and suggests useful apps, resources and questions to consider when carrying out digital projects.
Watch the webinar recording:
If you’re feeling inspired, find out more about Eyes Open and Uncover!