MODERN ONLINE PLATFORMS AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES IN TEACHING LINGUISTICS IN THE US HIGHER EDUCATION PRACTICE

• Main Authors: Maryna V. Ikonnikova, Olga O. Komochkova
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Institute of Information Technologies and Learning Tools 2019-10-01
• Series: Інформаційні технології і засоби навчання
• Subjects: linguistics; linguist; professional training; digital learning; digital technologies; online platforms
• Online Access: https://journal.iitta.gov.ua/index.php/itlt/article/view/2548

The article deals with the problem of applying modern online platforms and digital technologies to teaching linguistics students in the US experience. It has been highlighted that nowadays it is imperative to discover new approaches to enhancing the quality of education process, in particular, professional training in linguistics, using prominent achievements of the leading countries, namely, the USA. The country is worldwide recognized as the main centre of linguistics and applies the most advanced and innovative technologies to teaching linguistics. Recent researches and publications on the topic have been analyzed. It has been found that digital learning is viewed in different contexts, may have different terms and interpretations, however most scholars agree it promotes digitality of the education process and sets innovative trends in the education of the future. It has been stated that future linguists should be able to effectively apply linguistic theories and methods for fulfilling standard professional tasks, in particular developing scientific and technical and special terminology, linguistic software, conducting research in the field of psycholinguistics, forensic linguistics, communicative linguistics, sociolinguistics, cognitive linguistics, applied linguistics, etc. Therefore, it has been specified that the US experience of professional training in linguistics aims to strengthen the education process with the use of innovative digital technologies so that future linguists may confidently implement the acquired knowledge and skills into professional activities. It has been found that content management systems are widely applied in professional training in linguistics, since they are aimed at making study time more flexible so that the students may efficiently organize their learning and successfully achieve learning goals. It has been clarified that online/distance learning, which includes videoconferencing software and massive open online courses, is actively implemented to eliminate geographic barriers and connect learners all over the world. It has been specified that modern linguistic multimedia laboratories play the leading role in making professional training in linguistics more digital. Based on the research findings, relevant conclusions have been drawn and optimal recommendations have been outlined how to enhance the quality of professional training in linguistics worldwide through applying modern online platforms and digital technologies.