Exploring new ways for teaching reading and writing at the university

Abstract

This case study represents an experiment undertaken with 2nd year students of reading/writing module. The aim was to apply project based approach using the new technologies of information and communication to enhance and motivate students to read and write about a true experiment. This was achieved through the exploitation of an authentic text and the building of a group project around it. Students went through different steps using different techniques and multi media tools. Before publishing the final narrative essay, they wrote drafts, corrected and improved them. The final project was presented under a poster format so as to be published in the department magazine and in power point in front of the audience (classmates and the teacher) to be discussed. This project based experiment enabled students to work in groups, to collaborate and use the net as a source of information and self improvement. It aroused their curiosity to know more about Indian traditions and culture and compare them to their own. The project was students’ own achievement and here was the key of success!
Key words: project based approach, new technologies, constructivism, enhancing reading/writing