Looking Back at Current Issues in ELT– What I’ve Learned and What Comes Next

Before this course, I already saw technology as an essential part of education. While it did not change that view, it helped me use technology more creatively and effectively in English language teaching.

As this term comes to an end, it feels right to say goodbye with a final reflection on the Current Issues in Teaching course. One of the main strengths of this course was its strong focus on practice. Almost every task required us to design something realistic and classroom ready. At times, the workload felt demanding, especially when multiple tools and models had to be combined, but this challenge also pushed us to think more critically and creatively.

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Some parts of the course felt easier, particularly tasks related to material design and visual planning like the Flipped Classroom Task and the VR & AR Integrated Teaching Even though i have no negative ideas about other tasks some were more challenging, such as integrating technology meaningfully while also following frameworks like ASSURE. My favorite tasks were those that allowed us to create interactive materials using tools like Canva, CapCut, and Google Docs. These tasks felt productive because the outcome was tangible and usable. My least favorite aspect was time management, especially when coordinating group work under tight deadlines.

A symbolic representation of my journey in Current Issues in ELT, generated with Sora AI.

Another important highlight of this year was group collaboration. Compared to last year, I genuinely enjoyed working with my group members more. Communication was clearer, responsibilities were shared more evenly, and the overall process felt smoother and more motivating. This made even demanding tasks feel more manageable.

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For students who will take this course next year, my advice is to stay open minded and make full use of the tools provided. This course contributes significantly to professional development by encouraging flexibility, creativity, and practical thinking in language teaching.

I have improved my knowledge and paved the way for future learners.

I am Tufan Gürültü, and this is the end of this chapter. Hope to see you again.