Introduction to Study Abroad

This elective class has proven to be a popular choice for freshmen, with nearly the entire first year intake signing up. I try to give students a chance to interact with as many other students as possible during the course. I think university life will be more enjoyable if from the very beginning, students make as many friends & acquaintances as possible. In class we practice self-introductions, how to start-up conversations with people we don��t know, and we discuss a great many tips on how to have an enjoyable homestay and study abroad experience. As an old-hand at living and studying abroad myself, I hope to impart students with some knowledge and confidence to approach their own study abroad journey.

Research in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is fascinating and dynamic. It is a challenge to stay up-to-date with the constant development that is brought to the field, especially in the area of technology for language learning. As we make inroads into making lessons more effective and the use of learners�� time more efficient, we also need to continue to endeavor to make the classroom environment enjoyable and keep learner motivation high. Recently, in particular, I am interested in the use of games in teaching, task-based learning and curriculum development. I also have an interest in bilingualism in children.