In early April, offline training sessions on the topic “Modern Technologies in Blended Learning” were conducted by methodological and language experts of IITU JSC: Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of Languages D.A. Aliyeva; Candidate of Philological Sciences, Associate Professor O.V. Bublikova; MA in TESOL, Senior Lecturer Z.M. Ainabayeva; and Assistant Professor Zh.Zh. Manapbayeva. The training was organized by JSC “National Center for Professional Development Orleu with the support of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the International Information Technology University (JSC IITU).

The sessions were conducted by leading instructors of IITU, who shared their experience in integrating modern digital technologies into education with the academic staff of Orleu. The main objective of the training was to enhance teachers’ professional competence in using digital tools such as the Akelius platform and artificial intelligence for organizing blended learning and developing students’ language skills. The language and methodological experts highlighted the key stages of the training, which focused on the blended learning model, flipped classroom principles, the RAFT strategy, station rotation, and the application of modern technologies in the educational environment.

The first stage of the training featured a master class by Dinara Assylkhanovna Aliyeva and Oksana Vasilievna Bublikova, focused on the use of the Akelius platform as a tool for blended learning. One of the main topics was the “Station Rotation” model, which involves active engagement of learners with various educational resources in different formats. Within this model, students can work with traditional materials, digital applications, and complete group tasks. This approach promotes flexibility in learning, increases student engagement, and helps them develop a range of skills.

The pedagogical objectives addressed through the “Station Rotation” model were thoroughly explored during the training. A key tool presented was a diagram illustrating the logical structure of a lesson. Participants learned how to design lessons that combine various types of activities, as well as how to integrate modern technologies such as the Akelius platform, which enables learners to work with materials in multiple languages, including Russian.

The next stage of the training focused on the RAFT strategy, presented by Dinara Assylkhanovna Aliyeva. What is the essence of the RAFT method? This approach helps students understand and interpret material from different perspectives, reflect on what they have learned, and present information in various formats. The core principles of the method include Role, Audience, Format, and Topic (RAFT), which allow learners to engage more deeply and meaningfully with the content. "The RAFT method is highly effective in a blended learning format, as it enables the active use of various educational platforms and resources. The integration of Akelius with the RAFT method allows students not only to absorb theoretical material but also to create their own projects, participate in discussions, and evaluate their own work,” explained Dinara Aliyeva. “Using the RAFT strategy fosters the development of students’ critical thinking and creativity."

The final stage of the training was dedicated to the principles of the flipped classroom, presented by Zulfiya Makhsutovna Ainabayeva. As the expert explained: “In a flipped classroom, the traditional lesson structure is reversed students first study the material at home, and then apply the acquired knowledge in class through problem-solving and discussion. This approach allows teachers to focus on deeper exploration of the content and provide individualized support to each student.” Zulfiya Makhsutovna emphasized that special attention was given to the use of the Akelius learning platform for independent study, as well as the use of artificial intelligence to personalize the learning process. AI can analyze each student's achievements and challenges, offer recommendations for improvement, and track progress over time. The training also featured practical examples and best practices in implementing the flipped classroom model in combination with AI and other digital technologies. This integrated approach helps increase student motivation and significantly improves academic outcomes, as each learner receives materials and tasks tailored to their individual level.

The training, dedicated to the integration of innovative educational technologies into the teaching of Russian and English, marked a significant step in preparing educators to meet the demands of the modern educational landscape. The use of the blended learning model, the RAFT strategy, the flipped classroom approach, as well as digital platforms such as Akelius, contributes to the creation of a flexible and personalized learning environment tailored to the needs and interests of students. Integrating these approaches into everyday teaching practices can significantly enhance learning effectiveness and overall education quality. In the context of digitalization, modern education increasingly relies on technological solutions as an integral part of the learning process. The training on the use of modern methods and digital tools in teaching Russian and English was an important milestone in the professional development of teacher-trainers from the National Center for Professional Development Orleu Throughout the sessions, participants became familiar with key pedagogical concepts, mastered cutting-edge tools, and acquired practical skills for effectively integrating technology into the educational process.

The second day was devoted to the practical exploration of artificial intelligence tools for teaching pronunciation. Participants engaged in analyzing interactive platforms such as AccentOracle, where speakers’ accents are identified through voice recordings, and methods for addressing common pronunciation challenges are examined. Zhannura Zharkhanbekovna Manapbayeva emphasized that special attention is given to creating engaging activities—from generating tongue twisters targeting problematic sounds to designing personalized exercises using resources such as Akelius Languages and Pronunciation Checker. Participants learn how to design lessons tailored to students' proficiency levels and apply AI tools to improve intonation and speech coherence, making the learning process both more effective and engaging.

It is important to note that the training sessions were conducted within the framework of the partnership between Orleu and UNICEF and aimed at equipping teachers with digital tools such as the Akelius platform and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to organize effective blended learning and develop students’ language skills. Participants explored the capabilities of the Akelius platform for implementing various models of blended learning, and also learned how to use AI for teaching grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, speaking, writing, and collaborative work. It should be mentioned that the Akelius platform has been in use in schools in Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent since 2021. The master trainings were attended by teacher-trainers from Orleu representing the East Kazakhstan, Akmola, Zhambyl, and North Kazakhstan regions, as well as the cities of Taraz, Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent. The knowledge and skills gained during the master training will be used by the National Center for Professional Development Orleu to provide cascade training for subject teachers in these regions, contributing to the development of quality and accessible education and improving literacy among school students.