Aprendiendo inglés con objetivos médicos en un ambiente educativo a distancia. Un enfoque conceptual. Una aproximación conceptual

Abstract

Learning English for Specific Purposes (ESP) has become widely available through a variety of online tools and e-learning platforms. In many cases the e-learning courses provide an electronic replication of in-presence courses focusing largely and only on developing lexical and grammatical knowledge, as well as receptive skills. Research shows the importance of Virtual Teams (VT) for fostering deeper learning and developing critical thinking, yet insufficient number of studies has researched the implementation of VT in learning English for Specific Purposes in the field of Medicine. The current study aims at developing a conceptual approach for enhancing English for Medical Purposes (EMP) e-learning programmes focused on the development of communicative skills, critical thinking, intercultural cooperation, lifelong learning and motivation through the use of Virtual Teams. The conceptual approach includes a set of problem solving tasks associated with actual medical cases organised entirely in a technology-mediated environment. Through problem-based learning, participants and tutors organized in Virtual Teams will be expected to reach solutions to outlined medical cases and problems. The proposed conceptual approach will develop foreign language proficiency for medical purposes, team working skills and critical thinking in recurring social interactions and collaboration in an online setting.