Data Driven Learning (DDL) approach

English is largely taught through traditional approaches and limited use of technology in most of the South-Asian countries where it’s either a second or foreign language. Practices like CALL and MALL (Computer and Mobile Assisted Language Learning) are quite uncommon even in this digital age. Under the umbrella of CALL, Data-driven learning (DDL) is an approach to language teaching (and learning) that allows a learner to observe naturally-occurring language. It promotes ‘autonomous learning’ whereby learners can build their own profiles of meaning and use, and critically analyze language data.

Through the session, I intend to showcase some of the ways and build a discussion with the attendees around the language areas (vocabulary and grammar to name a few) which can be taught using DDL. This will likely benefit and be of interest to both faculty as well as writing center coordinators and tutors as these groups are directly involved in language instruction. They will learn and discuss this new digital approach and how it can be incorporated in their teaching practice. This will help build capacity for digital pedagogy - one of AMICAL’s organizational goals. Under the same concept, simple Google search engine can also b>used as a language learning resource - called GALL (Google-assisted Language Learning). Google is freely accessible and user-friendly. Neither students nor faculty or writing center tutors are new to it. Hence, DDL can range from simply consulting Google to using specialized tools like Lextutor. Also, it’s very learner-centered, allowing learning at one’s own pace.