We met Anne Drevon and Wendy Masson, both teachers at ILCF. In this two-voice testimony, they tell us about their experience!
How long have you been teaching FLE?
A.D.: I have been teaching FLE since 1999. I started in Ireland, then in Georgia in 2003. I loved these experiences! Subsequently, I realized that FLE in France allowed you to have the world in front of you. At ILCF, I found an incredible cultural diversity that enriches my classes and interactions with students every day.
W.M.: For me, the adventure began in 2009 in Lyon, in a middle school and a vocational high school. I then taught for six years in Istanbul, Turkey, then in Spain. My international experience allowed me to adapt my teaching in a more global and intercultural way. At the ILCF since 2018, I particularly appreciate the richness of cultural exchanges.
What do you particularly like about this job?
W.M.: Interculturality is at the heart of my teaching. I like to see my students progress, especially when they understand complex concepts. There is a sparkle in their eyes, a kind of magic. The surprises in their essays are always fascinating!
A.D.: For me, it's very touching to see their efforts and their ability to take ownership of the content. They put a lot of energy and heart into their learning. I love the collaborative projects that arise from these efforts, we can talk about collective work! The exchanges with my colleagues and students are also very enriching.
What challenges or developments have you noticed in recent years (teaching methods, student profiles, etc.)?
A.D.: The public has changed a lot. Before, students mainly came to get a degree and improve their careers. Today, some are fleeing for political and economic reasons. France has become a welcoming country, and our role is to integrate this dimension of welcome and recognition into the teaching of French. They often arrive destitute, but they are very grateful for the comfort and security that our country offers them.
W.M.: Two big recent changes have been the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of artificial intelligence. We are returning to more interactive classrooms, encouraging personal exchanges. The action-oriented approach and communication projects are essential to motivate students and create group dynamics.
The ILCF offers innovative teaching to its students. How is this implemented (professional training, new interactive tools, etc.)?
A.D.: We love organizing fun and cultural activities! The karaoke last December, for example, for which the students chose songs, worked very well. This promotes decompartmentalization and openness to French culture. We also have exhibition visits (like the Gadagne Museum), and each semester, a major project is implemented between all classes.
W.M.: We also integrate aspects of French daily life, such as the culture of French gastronomy. These moments are essential for authentic and practical learning of French.
For these two teachers, the future looks exciting with many projects in perspective! Thank you to them for their participation.
For further informations
Read the testimonial from Julie, DELF DALF and TCF project manager, and teacher at ILCF!