Transformational Potential of Blended Learning to Personalize Foreign Language Teaching in a Non-Linguistic Higher School

Abstract

The article investigates the importance of personalization of teaching a foreign language in a non-linguistic higher school through blended learning. The important role of dynamic syllabus, information and communication technology and electronic language portfolio is examined and analysed. The authors come to the conclusion that blended learning is a new educational model with great potential to increase students' outcomes and create exciting new roles for teachers. Key words blended learning, foreign language teaching, electronic language portfolio, information and communication technology, dynamic syllabus Introduction The model of a university graduate is understood as a conceptual description of learning goals, learning content and the principles of organizing the educational process in undergraduate programs. One of the major objectives of modern educational system is developing personal intellectual abilities, critical thinking skills essential for university studies across disciplines and independent learning strategies. Skills of self-study, willingness and ability to adapt to ever-changing social and economic situations are very important for modern graduates (http://www.consultant. ru/law/). Federal target program on education for 2011-2015 is aimed at ensuring accessibility of high-quality education to satisfy the requirements of innovative social- oriented development of the Russian Federation. Solving these problems involves extending the teaching environment and creating virtual classrooms through online and blended learning related to students' cognitive needs, interests and abilities. Centred on purposeful, real-life objectives universities are working to get closer to the golden ideal of every student getting exactly what they need, when they need it. It is also very important to ensure learner- centered approach in the context of generality of educational environment (Sazonov, 2011). A student-centred approach in the Russian educational system