"Teaching English to the Elderly" - TETE

Summary

The main goal of this strategic partnership project was to adopt best practices from European non-formal education institutions in the field of adult language learning. Through collaboration between two partner countries, the project aimed to acquire and implement effective methods for teaching English, enhance the linguistic and cultural competences of adult learners, and promote international cooperation in adult education.

"Friendly environment, stimulating atmosphere, encouraging, smart teachers, and the sense of belonging to ‘my group’ - key factors for successful language learning, and that was ensured. Thanks to the Project I have become a more courageous speaker".

Topic(s) addressed

The topics and activities were selected based on the needs of elderly learners, with a focus on fostering a sense of belonging to the European community, pride in being part of an Erasmus+ initiative, and readiness to share the knowledge gained with others.

Target group(s)

• Groups of adult learners in Latvia and Lithuania, aged 50+

Methodologies used

Following a needs analysis and consultations with learners, suitable methods and teaching materials were selected to create a warm, welcoming classroom environment where inclusion, participation and cooperation were key to learning English. Individualised approaches were adopted, alongside pair and group work. Informal learning methods played a significant role - such as “Tell Your Story” cards and flyer distribution to passers-by, which reached around 100 people. Participants also visited the local library to promote informal learning practices and engage with the wider community.

Innovation environment

The carefully chosen andragogical methods proved highly effective. Recognising that the participants were older adults with rich life experience, the training made use of discussion-based techniques such as the Circle Method and Café Method. These approaches engaged seniors in meaningful, real-life conversations tailored to their interests and lived experiences. Trainers respected each participant’s ability to understand and respond, adapting the pace and content accordingly. Every session was delivered with patience and respect. One participant expressed their joy, saying, “This is the first time I’ve written on a whiteboard!” while another shared, “It’s so nice that I can talk in English with my grandson.”

Teachers’ role

Most teachers are not specifically trained to teach older adults, which highlights the need for innovative tools tailored to their needs. Language learning can be a powerful means of promoting active, happier ageing. In this context, outcomes such as fluency are not always the primary goal. As learners themselves acknowledged at the end of the course, personal satisfaction and a sense of achievement often matter more than language proficiency. Designing activities that consider both physical and cognitive capacities is key to effective teaching and learning. In this course, singing played a central role - it not only supported cognitive stimulation but also uplifted the mood of participants. The final assessment was structured as a collaborative group task, incorporating problem-solving activities and a few fun surprises to create an engaging and rewarding learning experience.

Impact and output

Since 16 April 2024, even after the official conclusion of the TETE Erasmus+ project, the seniors of the "Vecmāmiņas.lv" club and other interested community members have continued learning English. Classes have been held twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays), with two academic hours per session, hosted at the Zemgale Library. In addition to the lessons, local residents were invited to join an English readers’ club, where participants read texts, discussed films, listened to guest authors, and wrote summaries based on the topics explored. The project’s impact continues to resonate - its “domino effect” is still very much in motion.

Learn more about the project

Video