Alla Zarubina

In 2000, I graduated from the Tallinn Pedagogical University with a bachelor’s degree as a teacher of the Estonian language as a foreign language and cultural history. My minor was the English language. I have been working at the Multilingua language school since 1999, and now I am already a Russian-language teacher with a long experience.

In teaching languages, I focus mainly on the wishes of learners, be it a specialty language course, the practice of spoken language, preparation for language examination, etc. During the course of the lesson, I try to provide tasks with different goals so that learners can develop their language proficiency in a variety of ways.

I also use in the class not only the traditional teaching materials – textbooks, exercise books, etc., but also modern learning environments that give learners the opportunity to practice languages ​​in a diverse environment. I am trying to be positive and encouraging because language learning is not only a job but also a pleasure.

As an adult educator, I: 

• identify the needs and expectations of the study group; prepare and adapt learning materials based on the curriculum/training programme;  

• create a physical, mental, and social environment conducive to language learning; support the learners, notice and recognise changes in the learners’ development, and respond to situations in the learning process in a supportive manner; 

• analyse the learning process, assess learners’ learning outcomes; 

• engage in continuous professional development; update training content and teaching methods, revising and modernizing them as needed; 

• use relevant information and communication technology (ICT) tools (e.g., interactive smartboards, online platforms such as Zoom and/or Teams, ML information system, cloud services such as Google Drive and/or OneDrive, e-learning platforms, etc.) in the preparation, delivery, and evaluation of the teaching and learning process, as well as for supporting my own professional development; am able to create, use, and share web-based learning materials. 

I participate actively in the activities of the EPALE educators’ community and share insights regarding Erasmus+ learning mobility projects. 

I have conducted workshops for Erasmus+ teachers on the use of images and games in the classroom and on developing listening skills. 

I have participated in the following Erasmus+ learning mobilities: job-shadowing in Hungary, in 2023; and the following courses: “Creativity & ICT in the classroom” in 2023, “Best digital tools for language teachers” in 2022, “Creative Methodology” in 2017, “Creative use of Technology in the Classroom” in 2016. 

I create language learning materials for adults using websites such as: www.learningapps.org, www.edpuzzle.com, www.educaplay.com, www. quizlet.com, www. blooket.com, www.lyricstraining.com.