7 basic military english for multinational operations (basic memo) a computer based learning program...

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Basic Military EnglishFor Multinational Operations

(Basic MEMO)

A Computer Based Learning Program

BILC Professional SeminarCopenhagen

05 October 2009

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Outline

The setting The challenge The answer

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The setting

English language training is part of career training for Officer candidates – SLP 3332 Army NCOs („Feldwebel“) – SLP 2121 civil defense administration personnel

– SLP 3332/2221

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Computer based learning programs

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Computer based learning programs

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Computer based learning programs

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The setting

There is no English language training for senior (by age and rank) NCOs extended service volunteers reservists senior (by age and rank) civil defense

administration personnel

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The challenge

Provide those without professional

English language training with a self-

study tool to improve their language

skills

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The answer

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Target Group

Soldiers of all ranks Noncommissioned officers, extended

service volunteers, reservists Personnel from all armed services and

organizational areas of the Bundeswehr

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Language Background

Heterogeneous target group Minimal knowledge of the language Some with beginner level skills Education: 9 –10 years of school Standardized Language Profile: 1010

to 1111

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Objectives

To enable learners to apply elementary language skills appropriately in typical mission-oriented situations

To provide mission-oriented vocabulary and phrases

To encourage communicative language competence in a military environment

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Available via

CD/DVD USB-memory stick PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), Cell phone (for selected elements such

as glossaries or phrases) Bundeswehr learning management

systems e.g., server-based instruction via the “Ausbildungsportal Bw“

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Research conducted at the

Explosive Ordnance Disposal CenterFederal College of Public

Administration, Defense Administration Department

Infantry School

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… and at the

Psychological Operations CenterBundeswehr Joint Medical Services

Center Joint Force Command (JFC),

Brunssum/NLFederal Office of Languages

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Basic Modules

Based on typical everyday situations fundamental language structures basic vocabulary and a guided grammatical progression

were developed for mission-oriented activities.

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Advanced Modules

For learners who have completed the Basic Modules, Advanced (“Specialized”) Modules provide: specific, authentic tasks and orders

introducing specialized vocabulary for non-specialists.

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Service Modules provide

Information about the country of deployment, e.g.

Afghanistan cultural awareness rules of engagement (ROE)

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Service Modules provide

Additional language information phrases military courtesy rank insignia (US, UK, GE) glossaries vocab trainer basic grammar

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Basic MEMO includes

450 photos 12 video clips (each approx. 30

seconds) 3700 audio recordings by 19 speakers 357 exercises and skill checks

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Path to successful learning

Access via Pre-Testing

Before working with Basic MEMO, learners: take a diagnostic test (24 skill-check

exercises covering all Basic Modules) receive a recommendation for guided or

selective access

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Path to successful learning

Guided Access starting with Basic Modules 1 – 7, proceeding to Advanced Specialized

Modules 1 - 7

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Path to successful learning

Selective Access

Learner decides where to start

(modules, exercises).

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Further Steps 2009

• Begin field testing Oct 2009

• Complete master-versionNov 2009 PDA/cell phone/ USB memory stick

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