Regardless if a student represents a K-12 learner of a native language or has to go through the challenges of learning a foreign language through a university course, it is essential to learn how to apply acquired knowledge in practice. The most challenging part in maximization of career readiness is diversity in the standardization of quality of learning and applicability of certain sets of data. Turning to the Common Core State Standards, one can see that career readiness requires empirical evidence regarding what employers and educators really need in terms of standards and borderlines of passing through a certain curriculum successfully. Still, it is barely possible to determine whether a student is ready for college and demanding careers based on what is required versus what is included in a certain language learning course.
6 Tools That Help Maximize Language Learner’s Readiness for Career Choices
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TEDx.
The advantage of TEDx presentations is in their structure and authors trying to represent a certain idea in under eighteen minutes. Speaking of the language learning aspect, these conferences help learners to understand the language and see how the order of words and condensed information function. It serves as a great language training tool in a digital environment that helps to connect ideas to words and represent them in a clearer way. It is exactly what the majority of HR managers look for as they mention soft skills.
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Quizlet Pro.
Both neuro linguistic experts and educators agree that many students today learn better when they can connect linguistic perception aspects to visuals. It can be easily explained by the use of technology and growing up with smartphones where emoticons and post-stamp-sized graphics create associations with certain words and sentences. This is where Quizlet stands out as quizzes and graphic presentations become a vital part of language learning and career readiness training.
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Google Classroom.
One of the most important parts of being ready for modern careers is cooperation and being able to work in a team. Google Classroom can be safely considered as a primary tool that should not be ignored by educators since it makes it possible for students to take responsibility and make educated guesses when one proceeds through various tasks, surveys, and examinations.
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Code With Google.
This solution by Google offers unique coding tutorials both for young and old language learners. The purpose here is to implement a programming language to develop strategic thinking, analysis, logic, and comparison skills in basic speech and writing patterns as the coding methods are being used. It also teaches accuracy as the lines of code are being typed and compared among the students. The presence of accessible tutorials also makes this language learning approach important for those cases when one deals with autistic children or those who like to challenge themselves.
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HelloTalk.
This small and free language-learning app addresses socio-cultural points of learning. Unlike typical solutions for those who are either bilingual or aiming for another language, it lets you talk straight to native speakers to perceive language “as is”. It can be compared to the practical side of any career where theory alone may be insufficient. Yet, such learning must be always supported with accurate written materials and perception of the written text in subtitles, dialogues, or any other form. If such information is unavailable, consider high-quality language translation services to make sure that you approach certified experts and eliminate possible language-related mistakes. Combining verified written content and a cultural aspect of a foreign language will make you open-minded as you approach new information.
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DuoLingo.
Another interesting option for those who would like to learn a foreign language and address career readiness. What makes DuoLingo so popular is not only the number of not-so-common languages but a visual connection of words, images, audio, and video content. It’s the complex mixture of things that helps people learn as they read, write, and pronounce unknown words. The popularity of this tool also proves that the best language learning results are achieved when more than one method is implemented.
The Role of Leadership in Language Learning
One of the most important factors that must be considered both by parents and educators is the role of leadership and strategic thinking when certain decisions are being made. It’s especially evident in creative writing that is performed by the younger learners who use imagination, vocabulary, speech capabilities, metaphors, allegories, and other language-based devices. The purpose of the educators is to not only help the students learn but also motivate them for independent research, thinking outside the box, and becoming strong leaders who know how to lead while being able to listen. It is what helps to achieve the true essence of language learning – cooperation via existing means of communication.
