Blended Learning
In this section we will provide examples of good practice in online and blended language teaching and learning.
The aim of our online and blended learning model is to support students of the new curricular languages, in particular those students in senior cycle who wish to sit their LC in a language they can’t access in their school.
If you are interested in finding out more about these, or you are interested in exploring language teaching and learning in a blended way for your schools please contact us.
PPLI are also currently involved in a number of pilot projects for online and blended models of language teaching and learning. These pilots will inform the future development of additional courses and modules.
Senior Cycle Polish Blended Learning Project
In response to challenges encountered in introducing Polish as a Leaving Certificate Subject, Post-Primary Languages Ireland (PPLI), in partnership with Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB) and H2 Learning, has implemented a pilot blended learning project focused on Polish in CMETB schools. The project now encompasses six schools, and ensures accessibility for students who would otherwise have limited access to this emerging subject. It is led by Paddy Flood, Director of Schools, CMETB, and Dr Kenia Puig i Planella, Education Officer, PPLI.
Introducing Polish as a Leaving Certificate subject posed challenges for post-primary schools. In response to this, PPLI partnered with CMETB and H2 Learning to introduce a pilot blended learning project for students of the language. This began in March 2021 with an initial six-week taster course for Transition Year students. Following that, in September 2021, PPLI introduced specification-based senior cycle classes for students of Polish.
The 180-hour course, crafted over two years, seamlessly blends online, face-to-face, and self-directed learning, and covers all aspects of the new Polish Leaving Certificate specification. This innovative approach ensures accessibility for students who would otherwise have limited access to this emerging subject and exemplifies an innovative approach to language education..
The approach also aligns with Languages Connect, Ireland’s Strategy for Foreign Languages in Education (2017-2026). The strategy envisions broadening horizons beyond current curricular languages and nurturing the linguistic capabilities of the “new Irish”. Among its recommendations is the exploration of innovative models like blended learning for introducing less commonly taught languages into school curricula.
To learn more about this course watch the video report, or read the press release issued for the launch event in CMETB.
Saturday Leaving Certificate Chinese and Portuguese classes
The pilot aimed to develop an alternative blended provision model (with both online classes and face-to-face sessions) for students who do not have access to the curriculum in schools. Two groups of 5th-year students have been selected across the country to participate in this two-year pilot project.
Good Practice Examples
Active, Engaged Learning Online
