Modern Language Teachers' Association of Victoria
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Enhancing Student Engagement through PBL and Agency in Language Learning

Mark GabrieleSimonds Hall

This presentation focuses on increasing student engagement and improving learning outcomes in the language classroom by fostering greater autonomy through a Project-Based Learning (PBL) unit. The 6-week unit, Un Viaggio in Italia, designed for Year 9/10 Italian students, allows learners to take ownership of their education by creating a personalised folio based on an imagined trip to Italy. Students engage in a variety of tasks, including writing journal entries, preparing oral presentations, researching cultural elements (e.g., music, festivals, and landmarks), and planning their itinerary. By offering flexibility and choice, the unit gives students control over their learning, encouraging them to align projects with their own interests while building language proficiency and cultural understanding. The presentation will outline how this autonomy-driven approach leads to deeper engagement and better learning outcomes, highlighting key strategies for guiding students through self-directed work. I will provide practical resources, templates, and ideas for teachers to integrate similar units into their language classrooms. Ultimately, the presentation demonstrates how increased student agency fosters higher motivation, enhanced language skills, and a stronger connection to the learning process, helping teachers empower students to take charge of their language learning journey.

Fri 11:15 am - 12:00 pm
Curriculum Design, engagement, senior secondary, year 7-10