Using metaphorical associative images for improving efficiency of english language classes in higher education institutions

Abstract

The relevance of using metaphorical associative images (MAI) in English language classes at higher education institutions is due to the need to ensure effective communication in the context of accomplishing communicative tasks and providing conditions for the development of students’ creative potential. The aim of the article is to determine the expediency of using metaphorical associative images as a means of improving efficiency of English language classes taking into account methodological, didactic, linguistic and psychological factors. The tasks consist in the study of MAI as a universal psychological tool, highlighting some aspects concerning visual aids in teaching foreign languages in connection with the use of MAI and the development of communicative activities based on the MAI use for teaching students in English language classes at higher education institutions. There have been analyzed the results of research in the field of psychological science regarding MAI as a universal psychological tool that allows specialists to work with both emotional and cognitive spheres of the personality through the interpretation of images. MAI application is based on a metaphor, appeals to the human subconscious and is used for diagnosis, psychocorrection, psychotherapy as well as the development of a person, revealing his or her creative abilities. From the angle of foreign language teaching, visual aids are considered as one of the effective methods that contribute to the construction of speech expressions. The idea of the possibility of using MAI in foreign language teaching for the formation of students’ speaking skills based on the activation of their cognitive mental processes and appeal to the flow of associations has been substantiated. Career-oriented English language activities on the topic “Digital media projects” with the use of MAI for students studying under the educational programme “Content producing of digital media projects” have been presented. The expediency of using the MAI method as a means of improving efficiency of English language classes in terms of implementation of methodological, didactic, linguistic and psychological aspects has been determined.