On September 17-18, the ECML in Graz hosted the first network meeting of the project “Pluriliteracies for global citizenship: Deeper learning in the foreign language classroom”. Twenty participants from 16 countries, including teachers, teacher educators, and university professionals, came together to explore key concepts and collaborative strategies aimed at enhancing global citizenship through pluriliteracies.

The meeting kicked off with a project overview, led by the project team, who introduced the main objectives and concepts of the initiative. Inspiring plenary sessions were delivered by experts Do Coyle and Christina Pylonitis, sparking insightful discussions among attendees. Participants engaged in meaningful dialogue in an open and collaborative atmosphere, reflecting on how the pluriliteracies approach can transform language education.

Central to the discussions was the 4R model, which provided a framework for rethinking language teaching and learning. Special emphasis was placed on the role of multimodality, multi-source reading, and integrating diverse perspectives to better address the realities of today’s classrooms.

The two-day event concluded with a draft list of key messages for educators and the establishment of a growing professional community, setting the stage for continued collaboration and action in advancing the goals of pluriliteracies and deeper learning in language education.

Merilin Aruvee, Silvia Minardi, Kathrin Jonas Lambert

On March 18th and 19th, the “Deeper learning in the language classroom: Pluriliteracies for global citizenship” project was launched by the ECML. With an international team consisting of Merilin Aruvee (Estonia), Kathrin Jonas-Lambert (Switzerland), Silvia Minardi (Italy), and Oliver Meyer (Germany), this 4-year project aims to reshape language learning for the future.

Recognizing the changing landscape post-COVID-19, our project addresses the need for language classrooms to evolve. In a world influenced by AI and facing challenges to social cohesion and democracy, our mission is to transform language education into a platform for global citizenship.

The Pluriliteracies project is poised to redefine language learning. By fostering learning partnerships between teachers and students, our approach is centred on deep engagement with global issues. Together, learners and educators will conceptualize, communicate, and connect, cultivating not just linguistic skills but the empathy, compassion, and critical thinking necessary to navigate and influence a world brimming with complex challenges.

By equipping learners with the ability to reason and argue over globally relevant issues, we are enabling them to step into diverse perspectives. More than understanding, it's about action inspiring students to become agents of change, addressing global needs with local deeds.

Oliver Meyer

• ECML project website “Pluriliteracies for global citizenship – Deeper learning in the foreign language classroom” (2024-2027): English – French