1

Record material - Keeping up with live teaching can be tricky, even when text resources are provided. Record lectures and tutorials to create resources for learners to re-watch parts they may have missed. The rest of the class will likely appreciate these as well, especially when connections are poor or unreliable. Here are some guides on how to records your Zoom or Teams meeting.

2

Set up closed captions, transcripts and subtitles - Zoom and Teams have automated closed captions, and a transcription function you can use to support learners. As an automatic function it may not always be accurate, and the transcript will likely require editing. Pass these guides on to you students for how to set transcriptions up on Zoom and Teams.

3

Use translation applications - Google Translate can be applied to Word documents and be used on web browsers. There are also apps users can apply to other Google Workspace products. Microsoft has a similar feature called Microsoft Translator which can be used to translate PowerPoint lessons. This can also be added onto the Microsoft Teams chat.

4

Provide digital versions of course materials - Make text-based resources available in digital formats to all learners (Word documents, PDFs, e-books). This allows learners to copy and paste text into translation software when coming across unfamiliar words or phrases.

5

Schedule one-on-one time - Have regular one-to-one check-ins with learners to check on progress or any difficulties they are experiencing. In the context of lockdowns and fewer opportunities to practice their English, this could help with their speaking and listening skills.

[Our English as a second language students] have learning guides… These are issued and accessible prior to their course, and one of the suggestions to TA’s is to encourage learners to pre-read.

Tutor

Additional resources

Resources to refer learners to: