Appsmashing is "the process of using multiple apps in conjunction with one another to complete a final task or project" according to Greg Kulowiec who coined the term. This session will show how appsmashing can enhance language learning through the productive skills of speaking and writing as well as promoting the 4 C's of Creativity, Collaboration, Critical thinking and Communication.
Appsmashing challenges language learners to access higher order thinking skills and gives them ownership of their work. They can produce engaging layered digital storytelling projects which channel their creativity in multifaceted ways and promote personal expression. Language learners are able to work creatively and collaboratively to produce writing and speaking in one multimedia outcome giving them extensive and rigorous practice of the productive skills which they can easily publish to a worldwide audience on a blog or video sharing site.
Appsmashing allows them to draft, redraft, refine and edit what they have done as a vehicle for promoting creative writing or improving pronunciation. Students are able to work independently and at their own pace or collaborate with their peers.
In the session, we will look at some practical examples or recipes for combining different apps together to produce collaborative video projects, interactive posters and multimedia comic books which lend themselves very well to enhancing language learning. We will also explore some language specific lesson planning guidance and outcomes produced by young learners in the UK.
Are you up for the challenge? If you like the idea of turning an original idea on its head and coming up with something which is far more engaging, relevant and important to young people, then this could be the perfect session for you!
