See special offer for Roger-Wilco readers at the end of this article.
Following several high-profile accidents, multiple incidents and near-misses as a result of inadequate language proficiency, ICAO has set a minimum level of English for all pilots and air traffic controllers providing services to international flights. In response, many online language learning tools have materialised offering ICAO level 4 training.
Most of these courses offer the traditional learning combination of writing practice and conversation practice with an English teacher. However, one company has taken a totally different approach to the learning process. Languagelab.com, in partnership with Emery-Roberts, have created a ground-breaking virtual learning product, Aviation English Live.
Aviation English Live immerses its students in real-life situations in Languagelab’s virtual English City. Learners access the platform through a computer, using a headset and microphone to interact with teachers and other students live and in real time. All teachers are qualified teachers with ELT and aviation experience and classes are held at the airport within the virtual English City. By using experienced pilots and air traffic controllers to teach the non-routine scenario situations, students have the advantage of first hand knowledge and experiences of many air traffic incidents and situations.
But this isn’t just a gimmick. Complete immersion in a virtual world results in a deeper learning process, known as stealth learning (Gee, 2007). Learners are not overly aware of the fact that they are learning, how much, or how difficult it is. They are so absorbed in the task in hand that they respond in English as if they really are averting a collision, aircraft breakdown, or even dealing with a bomb scare.
This method has been proven to result in a deeper understanding and quicker learning curve than other, more traditional learning methods. The result is an unrivalled online English learning experience and faster proficiency progress for aviation professionals.
Student testimonials speak for themselves:
“I really liked the opportunity to speak with and listen people from everywhere in the world: that’s exactly what I need to improve my score at the exam”
– Arnault. Pilot from France
“Personally I think this is the best distance learning course I’ve ever tried”
– Pasquale, Pilot from Italy
Languagelab is so confident of its product that they are currently offering readers of Roger-Wilco the opportunity to attend two of the modules of Aviation English Live – free of charge. If you are interested please contact Alan England .
Want more information? Check out the Languagelab website.