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Here is another example of an engaging practice that, from a professional experience, fosters students’ SCHOOL ENGAGEMENT. By school engagement we mean students’ observable participation in school activities, sense of belonging to classmates and teachers, and valuing success in school-related goals.

It is implemented by: Teachers

It is directed at students aged: 12-14

Target group: Class-centred

Main subjects involved: Languages

ICT involvement: Yes

Description of the practice: The “guests in the classroom” practice is implemented in the language classroom, allowing language students to develop content, skills and interaction at several levels, with people different from their teacher or classmates. The guests can be invited to the classroom through video conference or in person. I develop this practice on my own, as a pedagogical intervention to develop listening/speaking and writing skills.

Accessible to any student: yes

Meaningful participation for every student: yes

Why? All students are engaged in different stages of the practice, so as to give everyone an opportunity; for example: students who struggle with listening skills may choose a guest, while others who feel more confident may choose another guest with a more demanding communication. Students who are more capable of dealing with technology will work with interactive tools, while others may choose analogic materials to complete the same learning path. When it comes to creating/making an interview for example, working in small groups or pairs allows team work, but full integration of all members.

Support to the practice: no

Link with more information: Thinglink