3 June 2011

Language studies teachers from across Australia will discover how modern technologies can enhance learning outcomes at UQ next week.

The first Technology Enhanced Language Learning (TELL) expo will be held at St Lucia on Monday, June 6, and feature a range of learning and teaching innovations that are transforming modern language learning.

Dr Caroline Steel from UQ’s School of Languages and Comparative Cultural Studies said the expo was designed to provide high school and university language teachers the chance to share successful practices and experiences.

“Expo exhibitors will showcase cutting edge TELL technologies that have already been implemented with success in the teaching and learning environment,” Dr Steel said.

A demonstration of a virtual Chinese island for language learners created in Second Life™ by Dr Scott Grant from Monash University will be among the expo’s highlights. UQ students will also demonstrate how contemporary language learners can use technologies inside and outside of the classroom.

Exhibitors will offer free tip sheets to participants with helpful hints on how to implement TELL technologies in their own classrooms.

The expo, in partnership with Independent Schools Queensland and Catholic Education, is kindly supported by the Brisbane Universities Language Hub (BULH), an alliance between UQ, Griffith University and Queensland University of Technology. The alliance is designed to give students more opportunities and greater flexibility to study languages during their university degrees.

The TELL Expo will run from 12pm – 3pm on Monday June 6 in Room 219 of the Sir Llew Edwards Building (Building 14).

Media: Dr Caroline Steel (07 3365 6898, c.steel@uq.edu.au)