Fourth Year Hon. Mention: Speaking Their Language

WRIT 4002, Periodical Writing and Publishing Practicum. CD: paul mclaughlin

Abstract

This timely, relevant, and well-written piece introduces readers to a compelling and important online teaching initiative that emerged out of necessity in Kazakhstan in the context of Covid-19 lockdowns. The writer tells us of her personal experience as a tutor with “Teaching For Heroes”, a movement established by a few teens in Kazakhstan who recognized the need to establish an e-platform that would give students a unique learning opportunity to continue to develop their English skills in the face of Covid’s limitations.

The writer shares the inspiring story of what can happen when “a conversation [sparks] an unexpected purpose” - a collective purpose – that not only provides students with academic support and English Language learning opportunities, but also, and "unexpectedly", how it opens a space for connection, community building, and new friendships.

The writer's engaging prose style takes us in to the scene of the space of the e-platform to share inspirational moments of motivation, collaboration, support, and resilience in this virtual learning space in the face of Covid-19.

This beautifully written piece clearly reveals the imperative of this teaching initiative, which was to create a web of learning and communication across countries and continents, one that will continue to have an impact on so many lives for years to come.