Content related language learning means both learning another subject through a second/ foreign language and learning a second/foreign language by studying a content-based subject.

The general assumption is that the study of a second language will be more interesting and rewarding if the focus of instruction is not so much on the language itself but on interesting and meaningful contents. In this way, the second language is understood as a means or a tool to explore meaningful and cognitively challenging content.

The activities found in content-based units possess essential characteristics. One of the starting-points of content integrated learning is that the learner takes an active role in the learning process, generating ideas and providing her/himself with learning opportunities, rather than simply reacting to various stimuli from the teacher. She/He is not a passive subject to whom things merely happen; she/he is one who causes things to happen. Learning is understood as the result of her/his own self-initiated interaction with the world.

According to the National Family Learning Network “Family Learning is about families enjoying learning together”.
In case of our project, family learning means:
- encouraging family members to learn together
- parents / carers and children learning together

Family learning can:
- encourage children and adults to feel good about learning
- improve literacy and numeracy skills
- enable parents to understand how their children learn
- help parents to better support their children’s learning
- increase parenting skills
- enable parents to re-engage with their own learning and
personal development
- provide opportunities for further study

More information:
http://www.campaignforlearning.org.uk

A major opportunity of self-directed language learning is that learner can choose what he/she does, where, when and why.
Self-directed learning give a chance to make language learning also fun, e.g. by choosing materials, which really interest learner.

The learner takes responsibility for own progress and achievements in language learning.
The learner can work on the language skills which he / she needs to work on. Additionally, the learner has possibility to develop own confidence and effectiveness about learning new languages.

Self-directed language learning give opportunity of effective use of learner’s study hours outside the constraints of lectures and set work and an opportunity to work constructively with friends, family and co-workers in working place.

Concept of self – directed learning can be introduced language teaching in classroom – the language teacher can play a role of facilitator of self-directed learning and help learners to become self-directed learners.