A Learner–centered Approach to Developing Transferable Skills through M‐learning Activities in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)

ABSTRACT

Traditional way of teaching has always been regarded as a process of transmitting knowledge to learners who act as passive recipients of information. There has long been a controversy over traditional pedagogical style of lecture delivery as opposed to active learning environment in which learners are engaged in the learning process itself. (Wilson & Sipe 2015 p. 89). Educators are trying to apply various teaching methods to promote learner-centered approach and engage students in active learning since dynamic learning environment stimulates students’ interests and motivation. Furthermore, this new model of teaching promotes transferable skills development that has become the primary objective of Higher Educational Institutions.

In the light of this innovative teaching approach, the emphasis has been paid to m-learning, that is engaging learning practices through creating more digital learning environment. Incorporating m-learning tools in teaching English as a foreign language (EFL) in higher education stemmed from the rapid move towards viewing language learning as more autonomous as well as keeping pace with the recent development of technological devices in education.

Consequently, the paper sheds lights on various ways of implementing m-learning approaches in the classroom, which aims at managing learner-centered learning environment. It examines the ways to bring different educational tools, which can create engaging learning environment that contributes to the development of transferable skills and fosters students’ motivation.

Key words: Active learning, m-learning, transferable skills, motivation, Higher Education

Full article available on https://ircelt.ibsu.edu.ge/

Authors: Guranda Khabeishvili

Nato Pachuashvili