Pearson Longman May 2009 ESL Newsletter
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John Brezinsky
Why Use Video in Academic Listening and Speaking 
John Brezinsky, Higher Education Marketing Manager

In mainstream college courses, students need to understand the professor and their fellow students, and they have to be able to participate and ask questions. Using video instead of audio prepares students better and makes them more successful for three major reasons. For example, watch sample videos that accompany Contemporary Topics.


Watching the Professor

In a mainstream classroom, students watch the professor in real time as s/he gives the lecture. Showing video adds an extra level of authenticity and helps learners grow accustomed to the gestures and facial expressions that they will encounter in a real classroom.


Including PowerPoint

Many professors now include PowerPoint as part of their lectures. This means that students are required to read at the same time as they listen and take notes. Practice viewing lectures with PowerPoint prepares students for the multi-modal experience of a mainstream class.


Classroom Interactions and Small Group Discussions

A university classroom in the U.S. differs significantly from those in many countries, and students need to learn what will be expected of them. Videos help them see exactly how the professors call on students, invite questions, and expect active participation. Video of students discussing the lecture in small groups also prepares learners for this very different type of interaction.


The third edition of Contemporary Topics uses videos of the classroom lectures with optional subtitles, PowerPoint presentations, and note-taking tips. It also includes separate videos of students discussing the lectures. Ask your Pearson Longman representative about the series and view samples of the videos.




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