Introduction
The Dogme approach to language teaching has gained popularity in recent years, and for good reasons. It emphasizes conversation, collaboration, and the use of real-life situations and materials in language learning. In this article, we will explore the Dogme approach activities, the principles behind them, and how they can benefit language learners.
What is the Dogme approach?
The Dogme approach is a teaching philosophy that prioritizes the use of natural and authentic communication in language learning. It was first introduced by Scott Thornbury and Luke Meddings in their book “Teaching Unplugged: Dogme in English Language Teaching,” and it has since gained a following in language classrooms around the world.
Principles of the Dogme approach
The Dogme approach is based on three main principles:
1. Teaching should focus on conversation and communication.
Instead of relying on textbooks or pre-planned lessons, the Dogme approach encourages teachers and learners to engage in spontaneous conversations and activities that are relevant to the learners’ lives and interests.
2. Materials should be real-life and authentic.
In the Dogme approach, materials are sourced from the learners’ immediate environment, such as newspapers, songs, or videos. This encourages learners to use the language in a more natural and authentic way, and also makes the learning experience more engaging and relevant.
3. Learning should be collaborative and learner-centered.
The Dogme approach emphasizes the importance of learner autonomy and encourages learners to take an active role in their own learning. Teachers act as facilitators rather than instructors, guiding learners through activities and conversations that are relevant to their needs and interests.
Dogme approach activities
The Dogme approach activities can be divided into three main categories:
1. Conversation-driven activities
Conversation-driven activities focus on engaging learners in spontaneous conversations and discussions on topics that are relevant to their interests and experiences. These activities can be structured or unstructured, depending on the learners’ level and needs.
2. Real-life materials-based activities
Real-life materials-based activities use authentic materials from the learners’ immediate environment, such as newspapers, videos, or songs, to engage learners in language learning. These activities can involve reading, listening, speaking, and writing, and can be adapted to learners’ different levels and needs.
3. Collaborative activities
Collaborative activities focus on promoting learner autonomy and collaboration. These activities can involve pair or group work and can be structured or unstructured, depending on the learners’ level and needs. Collaborative activities can also involve using technology, such as online tools or social media, to facilitate communication and collaboration.
Examples of Dogme activities
Here are some specific dogme approach activities that teachers can implement in their classrooms using the Dogme approach:
- One-to-one conversations: Assign each learner a partner and ask them to have a conversation in pairs, using a prompt or topic provided by the teacher. The teacher can monitor the conversations and provide feedback and error correction as needed.
- Group discussions: Divide the class into small groups and give each group a topic to discuss. Encourage learners to express their opinions and ideas, and facilitate the conversation by asking follow-up questions and providing feedback.
- Role plays: Provide learners with a scenario and ask them to act it out in pairs or small groups. This can be a great way to practice real-life communication skills, such as ordering food at a restaurant or making small talk with a colleague.
- Dictogloss: Read a short passage or text to the class, and ask learners to take notes as they listen. Then, have them work in pairs or small groups to reconstruct the text as accurately as possible. This activity can help to develop listening, note-taking, and communication skills.
- Vocabulary building: Rather than teaching vocabulary through lists or flashcards, try to incorporate new vocabulary into the class conversation and activities. Encourage learners to use new words and phrases in context, and provide opportunities for review and reinforcement.
These are just a few examples of activities that teachers can implement using the Dogme approach. The key is to prioritize conversation, collaboration, and authentic materials, while also being flexible and responsive to learners’ needs and interests.
How can I incorporate the Dogme approach into my language teaching?
To incorporate the Dogme approach into your language teaching:
- Start by prioritizing conversation and using authentic materials in your lessons.
- Encourage learner autonomy and collaboration by creating activities that allow learners to take an active role in their own learning.
- Finally, be flexible and adaptable, adjusting your teaching style and activities to meet the needs and interests of your learners.
Benefits of the Dogme approach
The Dogme approach offers several benefits for language learners:
1. It encourages communication and collaboration.
By prioritizing conversation and collaboration, the Dogme approach helps learners to develop their communication skills and work together to achieve their language learning goals.
2. It promotes learner autonomy.
The Dogme approach encourages learners to take an active role in their own learning, which can lead to greater motivation and engagement.
3. It uses real-life materials.
By using authentic materials from the learners’ immediate environment, the Dogme approach makes language learning more engaging and relevant.
Conclusion
The Dogme approach is a teaching philosophy that emphasizes conversation, collaboration, and the use of real-life situations and materials in language learning. It offers several benefits for language learners, including improved communication skills, greater motivation, and engagement. By using Dogme approach activities in language classrooms, teachers can create a more engaging, relevant, and effective learning environment for their learners.