Group Dynamics in the MFL Classroom – Online CPD

What on Earth is ‘group dynamics’ and why does it matter?

If you found yourself asking this question when you saw the title of this online CPD, then you’re not alone! I studied group dynamics as part of my MA in Applied Linguistics and at first, I was completely confused by what it meant. I had already been teaching languages, both abroad and in London, for years before I did my Master’s and I thought I knew everything there was to know about groups and behaviour management and creating a positive classroom environment. Oh, how wrong was I?!

I have been wanting to run a CPD workshop on the topic of group dynamics for so long and I’m so excited to be able to offer you this 2-hour online workshop in April 2024!

Saturday 27th April 2024 – 9:30am-11:30am

The workshop will be based around the book ‘Group Dynamics in the Language Classroom‘ by Zoltán Dörnyei (my MA tutor) and Tim Murphey and in it, I will answer the following questions:

• What is group dynamics and why is it important for MFL teachers?
• What is a ‘group’?
• How do groups develop?
• What is group cohesiveness?
• How does the classroom environment contribute to group dynamics?
• How does the teacher contribute to group dynamics?
• How do students contribute to group dynamics?
• What causes conflict and how can it be resolved?
• How do you finish a class when you or they are moving on?

During the workshop, I will walk you through the different stages of group dynamics and give examples of how I have used my knowledge of the psychology behind group formation and development in my own teaching, with different age groups, levels and languages. I will also give you practical tips and ideas that you can implement immediately with your own classes.