Project based learning and Elevator Pitch: an innovative methodological approach to teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language

Abstract

Project Based Learning (PBL) is a methodological approach characterized by its meaningful learning processes and the development of organized learning involving innovative education strategies. In this context, the use of Elevator Pitch (EP) gains relevance as an underused methodology in the field of Spanish as a Foreign Language. This paper discusses the use of EP within PBL in the Spanish Classroom. The data for the study were obtained using a simple qualitative and quantitative data analysis from a descriptive research carried out in a classroom setting during one semester with B2 level university students. The research results show a positive shift in students’ motivation, as well as a link between the curriculum and the real-world. The use of EP has allowed for a more structured, thoughtful and comprehensive content and skills acquisition, organization and synthesis of the thought process and the development of individual abilities in heterogeneous and dynamic environments. The findings support the efficiency of EP and we advocate for its use in PBL as an innovative methodological approach that helps facilitate the dialogue between the world, the context and the semiotic modes (Kress, 2010), all of which form part of education.