Ms Kosior from our English Studies Department participates in International Conference in Slovenia

Ms. Margarita Kosior represented the English Studies Department of the University of Sheffield International Faculty, CITY College at the 23rd International IATEFL Slovenia Conference "Where Inspiration Is Born" organized in Terme Topolsica, Slovenia (3-6 March 2016). 

During the presentation entitled "Re-Negotiating the Basics: Learner Autonomy", Ms. Kosior first elaborated on the origins of the term "learner autonomy" and explained the rationale behind moving away from teacher-centered classroom to more student-centered learning environments in which students are granted more autonomy and assume responsibility for their own learning. During her session, Ms. Kosior presented a range of techniques used by the instructors both at the English Studies Department and the English Language Support Unit, ranging from involving in self-reflection within an academic context, but also at a personal level, to the use of technology (YouTube, TED Talks and the TED-Ed platform, Clickers). All these techniques result in increased engagement and motivation of the students.

The presentation was well-received and created a lot of interaction after the session. 

Special thanks are due to Dr Zoi Tatsioka and Mr. Thomas Mantzaris for their contribution during the preparation of the presentation and to one of the participants, Michael Harrison, for the sketch visualization of the session.