Together with US Different Perspectives on ELT – 25.01.25 Wrocław – Report

On January 25th, a training session for English language teachers titled „Together with US Different Perspectives on ELT” took place at the Foreign Language Centre of Wrocław University of Science and Technology, gathering over 100 teachers from secondary schools and academic lecturers. The event, organized by the U.S. Embassy in Warsaw, the IATEFL Poland , and the Foreign Language Centre of Wrocław University of Science and Technology, included nine inspiring workshops and lectures focusing on improving teaching methods, implementing new ideas, and addressing contemporary educational challenges. The sessions were led by American scholars working at various universities in Poland and Central Europe.

The lectures and workshops covered a wide range of teaching aspects, from academic writing and artificial intelligence to contemporary art, cultural integration, and socio-emotional development. All participants were able to take part in practical activities, such as „Active Academic Writing: Creative Tasks for the Classroom,” while the workshop „Crafting Strong Thesis Statements: The Role of Collaboration in Academic Writing” emphasized the importance of teamwork.

Key topics of the day included inclusivity and innovation. The session „Universal Design for English Language Development in Multicultural Classrooms” presented UDL as a practical approach to designing English language classes that consider cultural diversity, while „Integrating Cultures in the Classroom” provided ideas for practical ways to develop intercultural awareness among students.

The workshop „The Emotional Values Auction: A New Teaching Methodology, Where Skills Meet Emotions” introduced a fun and interactive method for developing communication skills. Technology and critical thinking were also central themes of the sessions. „Combating AI Bias: Challenges, Solutions, and Opportunities” encouraged teachers to initiate discussions on artificial intelligence, while „Contemporary Art Beyond 'I Like It’ and 'I Don’t Like It'” helped teachers use art to develop analytical skills.

Practical teaching strategies were also discussed. The session „Task-Based Learning in a Variety of EFL Contexts” presented ideas for designing lessons, and „Language and Life Skills: Teaching SEL in the EFL Classroom” showed how important it is to build students’ confidence and emotional intelligence through foreign language learning.

In conclusion, the „Together with US Different Perspectives on ELT” training was a success, providing participants with fresh ideas, practical tools, and a space to exchange experiences. The diversity of topics and interactive approach made the event an incredibly valuable educational experience for all involved.