How do we apply the affective method in the classroom?

In the following we will provide several tips on how to apply this affective strategy in foreign language teaching in order to create an emotionally safe and motivating environment for learners. 

First, active participation in the classroom will be promoted by encouraging students to open discussions among themselves and share ideas in the foreign language in order to build confidence in the group, as speaking in a foreign language can be a source of insecurity. 

Second, teachers should understand that when learning a foreign language, students are going to make mistakes, so they should never correct them by showing them up, but always in a constructive way so that they can improve their self-esteem and not be afraid of making mistakes, as this is normal. They will also be taught techniques to control anxiety as it is a common symptom when learning a new foreign language and the teachers will provide them with relaxation and breathing techniques to manage it so that they are not afraid of speaking in public.

Thirdly, it is important to set goals and celebrate achievements. When they achieve progress or specific goals set, teachers should accompany them in the profession and motivate them to keep moving forward. 

Fourthly, the integration of culture and emotions. Talking in the foreign language about other cultures encourages full integration in the classroom and makes students feel comfortable at all times. A great example could be watching a film in the proposed foreign language. 

Finally, as mentioned above, creating a climate of respect and empathy is a key pillar in this strategy as students respect their linguistic cultural differences and at the same time respect their peers. The emotional needs of the learners must always be taken into account and must always be adjusted to the learners' approach.

Teachers Jimena and Alejandra.

(Google image)