Abstract:

Language clubs or other similar forms of informal ways of foreign language learning, such as language cafes, discussion clubs, etc., are effectively used informal educational approaches in the acquisition of major foreign languages. Their aim is to provide adults with the environment that would promote the use of the target language. The language to be learned in the language club is both a means of learning and a goal of learning. The informal atmosphere of the club tends to break down formal attitudes. The learning process includes traditional classes, presentations, videos, music, and conversations among students. In the informal learning of the Latvian language, the language club approach, where adults learn and cooperate simultaneously sharing knowledge and skills, is used relatively rarely. One of the reasons is that the methodology of the language club is not adapted for learning Latvian as a foreign language at an informal level.
The study summarizes and systematizes the most important methodological prerequisites for the establishment of the language club and experience of its successful implementation in learning the major languages. Based on the obtained results, recommendations have been developed for the successful adaptation of the form of language clubs in Latvian language learning programmes, for example, rules, plan, topics. The opportunity to use the European Language Portfolio is offered for the assessment of learning outcomes, so that learners can self-assess their knowledge and skills, as well as guide their learning process.

Keywords:

Language club, language learning, informal education, learning process, assessment of learning outcomes.