FROM THE CLASSROOM TO THE FIELD: SOCCER AS AN INTEGRATIVE APPROACH TO COMPETENCE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The main objective of this article is to analyze how soccer, as a focal point of interest, strengthens English language learning among students at the Escuela Normal Francisco de Paula Santander. To this end, the process began with a diagnostic assessment as the starting point, and based on the results, creative, didactic, and participatory activities were designed. On the other hand, the methodological approach was grounded in qualitative Action Research with the intentional participation of students. The main data collection instruments included surveys, semi-structured interviews, and field journals. Finally, according to the results, it was concluded that the English World Championship demonstrated that the integration of ICT with social and cultural themes transforms English learning into a meaningful, creative, and interdisciplinary experience. By linking real interests, such as the Soccer World Cup, with academic content, students assumed an active role, strengthened their communicative and intercultural competencies, and experienced the language in real contexts, achieving a more motivating, inclusive, and relevant education.