English Lessons with the Use of Songs for People with Mild Cognitive Impairment

This educational program aims at teaching English to people with Mild Cognitive Impairmentand using English songs as a main tool for the teaching process. The methodology of this educational program is based on innovative teaching approaches such as “Communicative Language Teaching”(Richards and Rodgers 2001: 153-174) and “Natural Approach”(Krashen and Terrell 1983). Moreover it borrows some elements from “(De)suggestopedia” (Lozanov 1978) and the method of “Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP)”(Bandler and Grinder 1982). These methods place great emphasis on verbal communication, creation of a positive environment in class, reduction of stress and encouragement of learners to learn step by step in a natural and pleasant way. It is a very effective method for the patients since it enhances their memory and knowledge, boosts their positive psychology and improves their quality of life.The main aim of this educational program is to enhance people’ cognitive abilities (like memory) and prevent from Alzheimer’s disease. This aim is divided into the following objectives:1.Improvement of the people with MCI’ memorization ability through the use of songs.2.Help of the teaching process through songs. The material that would be taught in a conventional lesson becomes more interesting when it is related to a song. In this way the participants learn more easily. 3.Reduction of stress and increase of positive emotions. Many people with cognitive decline suffer from depression or stress disorder. The songs wewill choose reduce stress both through the calming music, and through the lyrics that convey positive messages and emotions.4.Socialization of the people with MCI and creation of the sense that they belong in a group.5.Improvement of the people with MCI’ quality of life, since they will socialize and obtain useful knowledge, as well as their stress will be reduced.6.Prevention from Alzheimer’s disease. 7.Familiarization with English Language through phrases that are related to communication and verbal expression. 8.Exposure to British and American culture. 9.Increase of people with MCI’ knowledge regarding vocabulary, grammar, syntax and other aspects of English language through a pleasant learning process.The main outputs of this project are: -Development of the methodology related to the workshops-Development of an open online education course for professionals