Abstract:

In the global context the education is getting more and more practically oriented. Greater access to the abundant information resources changes the learning trajectory focus from memorizing and listening to arming the learner with the tools that help get practically efficient. It implies that the professors have to be responding to the new demands the society is putting forward.

The paper focuses on the concept of active learning (AL) when used in the rapidly changing educational environment with the purpose to actively engage students in problem solving activities which aim at working towards finding a practically relevant solution of some problem.
- Step 1. We start with training students majoring in translation studies in the format of a mock event, e.g. mock conference – see mock conference Education Abroad in the format of the Final Panel (English Communication Perspective 2013,2016 pp.170-175).
- Step 2. This more advanced AL step is realized through involving students in a real conference, in all kinds of activities. The authors did it at the 54th International Linguistic Colloquium, hosted by Moscow City University, with more than 80 participants from 35 European countries, South Korea, Japan. Working languages were English and German.
Students were involved in translation (chouchoutage for the administration body members with zero command of foreign languages, consecutive translation of presentations and city tours, escort translation in cultural events such as a visit to the Kremlin Ballet Theatre, and when attending to the practical needs of the guests, e.g. relating to catering).
- Step 3. Students communicate with the participants in writing, preparing abstracts and programme of the conference (under the supervision of their advisors).
- Step 4. Students were to actively participate in the programme in the form of making presentations of their research results, taking part in the discussions.

Besides improving translation and organization skills students raise their self-esteem as successful performance at a real important event promotes motivation and impetus for further development.

The ideas we are going to promote here are that IGeneration, Millenials, or Generation Y
- are more practice-oriented
- are the generation of participation (illustrated by the practical scientific conference which involved students at each step)
- can combine a wide variety of practical activities
- are oriented on the result (or practical output, not mock teaching projects).

We are working from mock conferences and activities towards engaging students in real conferences.
So, the concept of active learning (AL) implies getting wider, more practical, the activities must be practically relevant and produce some tangible results.

We are tasked with preparing students for success in a world that is becoming more demanding, whether we like it or not. The good site to it is that it transforms universities into vibrant learning communities.

We have to admit, however, that AL is often seriously underestimated and even neglected. It needs more attention and discussion.

References:
[1] Suleimanova O., Kardanova K., Beclemesheva N., Lyagushkina N., Jaremenko V. English Communication Perspectives 2013, 2016 (2nd ed.), Moscow.

Keywords:

Active learning, digital generation, practice-oriented learning.