The Power of Noticing – Anne Robinson
What inspired your presentation topic, and why do you think it's important for English language teachers today?
I guess that the topic of my plenary and workshop are very much inspired by my own life and teaching experiences. For me, teaching and learning a language is not a question of dashing through a syllabus or coursebook. It’s about real communication, getting the most out of materials, individualisation and creating lightbulb moments. It’s going way beyond simply checking the answers to a reading comprehension task or commenting briefly on an image. It’s trying to reverse the tendency of rushing through life without appreciating the moment or giving everything just partial attention.
Can you share a key takeaway from your session that teachers can immediately apply in their classrooms?
Many of my suggestions will be immediately takeaways to use with any picture, text and topic. No preparation needed. We’ll be considering ways to encourage students to look at things a little differently, to make connections that are both relevant and useful and to think critically.
What are some common misconceptions about your area of expertise in ELT, and how do you address them?
I’ve been involved in preparing students for Cambridge exams as well as in the administration of the exams for decades. In the case of the Young Learners exams (Pre-A1 Starters, A1 Movers and A2 Flyers), some people perhaps question whether they are worth taking. My answer would be ‘Definitely!’ because I’ve seen first-hand how those young learners grow into confident language users and successful higher level exam candidates. Having a goal, something tangible to see where they are on their learning journey is invaluable for students. I’ve often been asked to go and speak to parents before enrolment. Attending presentation ceremonies a couple of months later is very inspiring for me too!
I’m told that one of my strengths is being able to analyse tasks and see the steps needed to prepare students for them. I still remember preparing a group of students for First Certificate a few years ago. Back then, there were no Exam Trainers or Exam Boosters available. It was much harder to understand tasks and to be able to help students. That’s why I particularly enjoyed being one of the authors of the Exam Booster for Advanced. These publications, as well as the numerous webinars available, definitely make exam preparation less daunting.
I also continue to share tips to help teachers and students on my website.
How do you see AI shaping the future of English language teaching and learning?
AI is here to stay. It definitely has its uses and benefits. I personally brainstorm ideas, find collocations and do many more things with it. For me, it’s input, not output.
I feel that the key issue is for us all to use AI wisely, to know when to (not) trust it and how to challenge it. Because AI answers all seem plausible, immediate, expressed as they are in such confident language. At first sight, images can seem real and trustworthy. That is why looking, focusing and noticing are such important habits to develop and apply.
What’s one book, resource, or tool you’d recommend to English teachers looking to improve their practice?
That’s a difficult question! I’ll recommend two! For completely different reasons.
1. Pinterest
Every day, I receive at least one email with recommendations for me, based on my browsing history on Pinterest. It’s great for inspiration for materials, teaching and crafting too!
2. The World of Better Learning
This website is a real goldmine of ideas and resources. You can find hundreds of readymade practical activities as well as articles on different topics (hot topics like AI and inclusion, for example).
Anne Robinson has been a presenter and teacher trainer for Cambridge University Press and Assessment for many years. As well as being a Cambridge author, namely of Fun Skills, Fun for Starters, Movers and Flyers and the Exam Booster for Advanced, Anne has written content for digital resources, including the A2 and B2 Exam Lift, Test and Train and Kahoots for young learners.
