In celebration of the European Day of Languages on September 26th, European Schoolnet joins millions across Europe in recognising the importance of linguistic diversity and language learning.

This annual event, initiated by the Council of Europe, encourages over 800 million Europeans to learn more languages, at any age, in or out of school. It's a day that underscores the richness of Europe's cultural heritage and highlights the power of multilingualism as a bridge to better communication and understanding among people.

Supporting Language Learning Through Digital Education

At European Schoolnet, we are committed to supporting language learning, particularly through digital education. Because digital education can be fantastic for language learners, providing opportunities for live communication with native speakers who live in other countries and reducing  barriers to learning, the European Day of Languages, 26th of September, the European Commission's Digital Education Hub invites you to join  a webinar on digital language learning with two experts who will discuss the pros and cons of digital language learning with you. Register here. 

In alignment with this commitment, the DIGI-LINGO project has recently published new guidelines aimed at helping foreign language teachers in higher secondary education integrate digital tools and virtual exchanges into their classrooms. These guidelines, rooted in scientific research and feedback from educators and students, offer practical strategies designed to enhance student engagement and improve digital language learning experiences.

Innovative Strategies for Digital Language Learning

The DIGI-LINGO guidelines provide actionable recommendations for educators and policymakers on effectively incorporating interactive platforms, digital resources, and virtual exchange programmes into the language learning process. They offer insights on adapting traditional teaching methods to the digital environment, fostering better learning outcomes, and enhancing student motivation. An organisational model for language learning and virtual exchange, including self-study materials and a mechanism for connecting with other language teachers to organise virtual exchanges, will be released this autumn, providing further support for teachers across Europe.

To celebrate the progress made in digital language learning and explore future possibilities, we invite you to join us on November 8, 2024, in Brussels or online for the DIGI-LINGO Final Conference. This event will showcase how blended learning, digital tools, and virtual exchanges are transforming foreign language education. Attendees will gain practical insights from leading experts, explore innovative teaching models, and discover tools designed to improve language learning in classrooms across Europe. Whether you're a teacher, advisor, or educational professional, this conference will inspire you to implement cutting-edge strategies and elevate language teaching to the next level.

Join the Conversation: The Future of Language Learning Is Digital

As we celebrate the European Day of Languages, we recognise that digital education plays a critical role in shaping the future of language learning. By leveraging the power of technology, we can break down traditional barriers, connect learners with authentic language experiences, and create more dynamic, engaging, and effective educational environments. At European Schoolnet, we are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation, supporting teachers, students, and the broader education community as we work towards a more connected, multilingual Europe.

Join us in celebrating the European Day of Languages and explore the many opportunities that digital education offers for language learners today and in the future.