Overview of the Advising Program / Research in advising by Satoko Kato [LINK to recording]
Congratulatory speech by Professor Yasushi Sekiya, Director of the MA TESOL Program at Kanda University of International Studies [LINK to recording]
Speech by a graduate representative: Alyssa Monica (Nikki) Marzoña, Soka University [LINK to recording]
Presentation 1: Reflecting on Advising in Language Learning: Examples From Europe and Predictions for the Field [LINK to recording]
Jo Mynard, Kanda University of International Studies
I have been on sabbatical outside Japan for one year, based in Europe. During that time, I have had the chance to reflect on our work in advising in Japan and observe some of the trends and issues elsewhere. In this talk, I will share some of my observations and examples of good practice from around Europe. I will also tentatively provide some predictions for the coming year for the field of advising in language learning.
Jo Mynard is a Professor, Director of the Self-Access Learning Center and Director of the Research Institute for Learner Autonomy Education at Kanda University of International Studies in Japan. She has an M.Phil in Applied Linguistics from Trinity College, University of Dublin, Ireland and a Doctorate in Education (TEFL) from the University of Exeter, UK. Her research interests include language learning beyond the classroom/ self-access, advising and learner autonomy. Her recent books include Autonomy Support Beyond the Language Learning Classroom: A Self-Determination Theory Perspective (published by Multilingual Matters in 2022) and Promoting Reflection on Language Learning: Lessons From a University Setting (published in 2023 also by Multilingual Matters). She is just completing a one-year sabbatical in Italy.
Presentation 2: Empowering Autonomy: Montessori Principles and the Role of Advising [LINK to recording]
Annika Albrecht, Montessori Stiftung Berlin
In this presentation, I will delve into the connection between Montessori principles and the development of autonomy in students, with a particular focus on the role of observation and advising within our Montessori campus. I will provide insights into our diverse array of practical strategies for advising, highlighting the nuanced balance between offering guidance, and fostering independence.
Annika Albrecht, holding an MSc in behavioral and organizational psychology, serves as a teacher trainer specializing in autonomous language learning and Montessori education. An author of EFL materials, she also holds the position of Head of Didactics at a Montessori Campus. Her professional interests revolve around exploring motivation and creativity as powerful tools for self-expression within the EFL classroom.
Presentation 3: Inclusive Language Education and Advising [LINK to recording]
Michele Daloiso, University of Parma
In this presentation I will share my personal experience in the field of inclusive language education. In particular, drawing on my own research in this area, I will focus on some typical features of learners with specific learning difficulties and highlight the types of support that language advisors can provide them from a linguistic, cognitive and emotional point of view.
Michele Daloiso is an Associate Professor of Educational Linguistics at the University of Parma, where he coordinates the Master’s Degree in Language Sciences and Cultural Studies for Special Needs and the ELICom research group. His research interests include early bilingual education, applied Cognitive Linguistics and language teaching in presence of special needs. He is also author of many papers and monographs on these topics. One of his most recent books, “Supporting Learners with Dyslexia in the ELT Classroom” (Oxford University Press), was awarded the Ben Warren International House Trust Prize and shortlisted for the ELTons Innovation Awards.