This eTwinning project was designed with the aim to promote English language skills via video chats involving teenagers from 5 high schools in 5 different countries and 3 continents: Greece, Croatia, Kyrgyzstan, Peru and Jordan. At the same time, it will provide the opportunity to acquire cultural, geographical, social and digital skills, as well as overcome stereotypes and gain a wider understanding of the international community, gaining a sense of global citizenship.
35 students from the aforementioned countries will participate in the project and English will of course be the working language, though the students will be encouraged to learn words from the native languages of the participants as well. The main aims of this project are the following:
- Improved Language Skills: One of the primary outcomes could be improved language skills, particularly in English, as teenagers from these diverse countries communicate with each other in a shared language. Participants can develop better speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
- Cultural Understanding: The project can foster cultural understanding and awareness among participants, especially considering that the teenagers come from 5 countries in 3 different continents. The long geographical distance between the 5 countries ensures a wide cultural diversity and the chance to talk with peers from a variety of cultural backgrounds. That way, the teenagers will learn about the customs, traditions, and ways of life in other countries, which can promote tolerance and empathy. At the same time, the teens will become more aware of their own personal, cultural and linguistic identity and will feel proud and open to share it with their chat pals.
- Enhanced Digital Literacy: Through online communication tools and platforms, participants can develop digital literacy skills. This way, they will become more adept at using technology for communication and collaboration.
- Global Perspective: Teenagers will gain a global perspective by interacting with peers from different parts of the world. This can broaden their horizons and encourage them to think more globally.
- Friendships and Connections: Participants may form meaningful friendships and connections with peers from other countries. These connections can extend beyond the project’s duration and lead to ongoing communication and collaboration.
- Project-Based Learning Skills: The project can encourage project-based learning, where participants plan, execute, and evaluate their activities. They’ll develop skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and project management.
- Increased Motivation for Learning: Engaging in a project with real-world communication goals can increase teenagers” motivation for learning. They may be more eager to improve their language skills when they have a practical context for doing so.
- Cultural Exchange: The project can include activities such as sharing traditional recipes, music, or stories from each country. This cultural exchange can be a creative way to showcase and celebrate the diversity of the participating countries.
- Increased Confidence: As teenagers engage in cross-cultural communication, they can gain confidence in their ability to communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
- Increased Interest in International Affairs: Some participants may become more interested in international affairs, travelling, diplomacy, or global issues as a result of their interactions in the project.
- Impact on Teachers: The project can also have a positive impact on participating teachers, helping them develop their teaching strategies and expand their international networks.
So, good luck to all and LET THE CHATS BEGIN!
