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+ trainings for 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.  You can read about my job-shadowing experience HERE and training in Barcelona HERE. 

 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.

Feedback from my students:

• “Alla always had all the teaching materials ready. She explains things clearly and is a down-to-earth, motivating, friendly and caring educator. Her personalised feedback on my work always helped me.”