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The 7th C in ELT: Connection – Embedding Empathy, Inclusion and Real-World Relevance in Language Learning
An IATEFL monthly webinar presented by Sushil Penuti
This session is about something simple but powerful. What if we added a 7th C—Connection—to the familiar 21st-century learning skills? Alongside critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity, learners also need to feel seen, heard, and connected to each other, to their learning, and to the world around them.
I will be exploring practical, flexible ways to bring that sense of connection into the language classroom. Strategies like writing from a character’s point of view, working together on meaningful projects, or using stories to reflect on identity and values, these kinds of tasks encourage empathy and real-world relevance—no matter where in the world you teach.
The strategies shared are easy to adapt for different contexts, age groups, and levels; a high-tech urban classroom, a large mixed-level group, or a lower-resource rural setting. They don’t require fancy tools, just thoughtful practice, and a desire to make language learning more human.
Wherever you’re teaching, this session offers simple but powerful ways to help learners grow—not only as English users, but as people. And that’s something every classroom can benefit from.
