In early November 2024, methodological and language experts from IITU JSC - Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of Languages D.A. Aliyeva; Candidate of Philological Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of Languages O.V. Bublikova; and MA in TESOL, Senior Lecturer of the Department of Languages Z.M. Ainabayeva – conducted a series of offline training sessions titled “The Potential of Digital Tools and Artificial Intelligence in Language Lessons Using the Akelius App.” These sessions incorporated modern pedagogical models, including “Station Rotation,” “RAFT,” and “Flipped Classroom.”

The primary goal of the training sessions was to develop practical skills for integrating artificial intelligence and contemporary digital technologies into language lessons conducted in a blended format.

Training Dates and Locations:

• November 1 — School-Lyceum No. 80 named after Akseleu Seidimbek, Shymkent;
• November 2 — Gymnasium School No. 67 named after Ilyas Yessenberlin, Astana;
• November 9 — International Information Technology University, Almaty.

The training sessions, lasting 180 minutes each, featured an engaging format combining theoretical and practical collaborative activities

Language and methodological experts highlighted key training stages focused on blended learning models, flipped classroom principles, and artificial intelligence in education.

The first stage of the training featured a master class by Oxana Vasilyevna Bublikova, dedicated to applying blended learning models and educational applications. One of the primary topics was the “Station Rotation” model, which involves active interaction between students and various educational resources in different formats. Within this model, students engage with traditional materials, digital applications, and group assignments. This approach enhances learning flexibility, stimulates active participation, and helps develop a variety of skills.

The pedagogical objectives addressed through the “Station Rotation” model were explored in detail during the training. A key tool was a schema illustrating the logical structure of a lesson. Participants learned how to design lessons that combine various activities and integrate modern technologies like the Akelius application. This app enables students to work with materials in multiple languages, including Russian.

Of particular note is how Akelius can be seamlessly integrated into Russian language lessons aligned with the Kazakhstani curriculum, such as those based on the Grade 7 textbook by U.A. Zhanpeis. Using Akelius in lessons opens new opportunities for creating interactive assignments and tests, as well as increasing student engagement. Collaborative work with teachers on implementing Akelius and artificial intelligence tools in OneNote allowed participants to acquire practical skills for using digital tools to develop educational materials and organize group activities. These technologies greatly facilitate feedback processes and enable personalized learning tailored to each student's needs

The next stage of the training focused on the RAFT technique, presented by Dinara Assylkhanovna Aliyeva. What is the essence of the RAFT method? This approach helps students comprehend and present material from various perspectives, reflect on what they’ve learned, and convey information in different formats. The principles of the method include the use of Role, Audience, Format, and Topic (RAFT), allowing for deeper and more meaningful engagement with content.

According to Dinara Aliyeva:
"The RAFT method is particularly effective in a blended learning format. This is because it actively leverages various educational platforms and resources. Using Akelius in combination with the RAFT method helps students not only absorb theoretical material but also create their own projects, participate in discussions, and evaluate their work results. Implementing RAFT techniques fosters the development of critical thinking and creativity among students."

The training also addressed the role of infographics as a modern tool for visualizing educational material. Dinara Assylkhanovna highlighted that infographics not only help students better absorb information but also present complex concepts in a clear and easily understandable format. Creating infographics using modern online tools is accessible even for younger students and is actively used in Russian language lessons to explain grammar and lexical rules.

The final stage of the training focused on 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 their knowledge in class by solving problems and discussing questions. This allows teachers to focus on deeper discussions and individual work with each student."

Zulfiya Makhsutovna emphasized that special attention was given to the use of the Akelius learning platform for self-study and the application of artificial intelligence to personalize the learning process. AI can analyze each student’s achievements and challenges, provide recommendations for improving knowledge, and track progress over time.

In addition, real examples and best practices of using the flipped classroom approach in combination with AI and other digital technologies were discussed. This combination of methods not only increases students' motivation but also significantly improves their academic performance, as each student receives materials and assignments tailored to their level of knowledge.

The training on the use of innovative educational technologies in teaching Russian was an important step in preparing teachers for the challenges of modern education. The application of blended learning models, the RAFT technology, the flipped classroom approach, and digital platforms such as Akelius helps to create a flexible and personalized educational environment that meets the needs and interests of every student. The integration of these technologies into the everyday practice of teachers can be the key to success in teaching and contribute to improving the quality of education as a whole. Modern education increasingly relies on digital technologies, which have become an integral part of the learning process. The training dedicated to the use of innovative methods and tools in teaching Russian and English languages was an important stage in the professional development of teachers. As part of this training, participants mastered key pedagogical concepts, got acquainted with new tools, and gained practical skills for implementing technologies in the learning process.