METHODOLOGICAL MEETING HELD WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF BILATERAL EDUCATIONAL COOPERATION

A methodological meeting focused on discussing effective feedback methods in teaching English as a foreign language was held at Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University. The event was attended by the universitys faculty members, students, and representatives of the U.S. Consulate General in Almaty.

The meeting was hosted by Serik Ivatov, Head of the Department of Foreign Languages. In her welcoming remarks, the universitys Vice-Rector for Strategy and Internationalization, Aigul Iskakova, emphasized the importance of cooperation and highlighted efforts to incorporate international experience into the educational process. Hira Kaur Kambodz, representing the U.S. mission, also noted the expanding educational ties between the two countries.
In the main session, TESOL specialist and English teacher at Zhetysu University, Bronwyn Schieber, spoke in detail about the role of feedback in teaching English as a foreign language. She explained effective oral and written feedback methods in EFL classrooms through practical examples and invited participants to complete small exercises.

Bronwyn Schieber stressed the importance of formative assessment, noting that feedback is not merely a tool to point out mistakes but an essential pedagogical mechanism that motivates students and supports the development of their language skills. She demonstrated models of constructive feedback, highlighting the effective use of oral explanations, written suggestions, group feedback, peer assessment, and self-assessment. She also addressed ways to actively engage students in the learning process, foster a culture of working with errors, and build language confidence.

In the next session, English program coordinator Nurgul Zhanabayeva introduced free and open online resources for English teachers and students. She shared information about the American English platform, professional development webinars, teaching and methodological materials, and opportunities for international experience exchange.

The meeting concluded with a Q&A session, during which participants shared challenges from their practice and received advice from experts. The event contributed to improving the quality of English language teaching, enhancing teachers` professional competencies, and integrating international methodological experience into the learning process.

Press Service
of Abai KazNPU