Part II – Key Principles of the Dogme Language Learning Approach – Putting a name to the methodologies that TalktoCanada.com uses to teach ESL online

by Jillian Zavitz

The Dogme Language Learning Approach has a few key principles that Scott Thornbury (somewhat of a founding father of the Dogme Language Learning Approach) outlines in his various books and articles about this newly labelled teaching movement.

1. Conversation = Learning: this is obviously the fundamental concept that is really the backbone of the Dogme Language Learning Approach.  Conversation – usually has no structured path.  True – you may have a specific topic that you prefer to focus on (daily topics to help get things started) but there is really no way of telling where that can lead you.  Questions come up, opinions are shared, conversation is born.
2. Emergent Language (vocabulary/grammar) = Learning:  although this point ties in with the first point – it focuses on the learning aspect of conversation.  The Dogme Language Learning Approach is not just a friendly chat with students.  Quite the opposite.  It is conversation – but with learning.  New vocabulary, grammar, concepts come out during a class that are not “planned out”.  They happen as the class happens – and as the student learns.  I’ve had classes were we’ve started off talking about the ever present apocalyptic theories of 2012 – to the grammar of speaking – do we say 2012 or 20 12.  All prompted by the student – in charge of their own learning. 
3. Relevance of materials = Learning: ideally the materials that you use in the class are ones that your students can relate to, and use in the “real world”.  I’m sure as teachers or as students we have all experienced lessons where the topic – just didn’t make for a very exciting lesson.  When are “typical” students ever going to use “tea party etiquette” if they don’t drink tea?  This is where textbooks get put back on the shelf.  With the Dogme Language Learning Approach – students can select their learning – and adapt it to their preferences and their specific needs.  

TalktoCanada.com uses these key principles in their teaching methods.  

Learning English Through Conversation

Incorporating different concepts and ideas and encouraging their students to take control of their learning.