Assisting Language Learning Through Technology

Assisting Language Learning Through Technology
Katelyn Biggane
28 July 2009
Literacy & Technology
Mount Saint Mary College
Newburgh, NY

Overview
Why should you use technology in the classroom? What can you do with it?
Traditional Technologies vs. New Technologies
CALL
Types of tools to use
Advantages
Disadvantages

Why use technology to assist language learning?
Using technology in the classroom can assist language learning for English, ESL, Languages other than English, and Special Education.
Increases contact with language
Adds motivation
Develops critical thinking skills, collaboration, technology skills, and it could be the one way that students will successfully acquire the information.
Today’s students have an affinity for using technology, touching, doing, and we want to target their desire to learn differently.

Traditional Technology vs. New Technology

CALL
Computer-Assisted Language Learning
The philosophy of CALL puts a strong emphasis on student-centered lessons. CALL centers on interactive learning and individualized learning.
Sometimes called TELL (Technology-Enhanced Language Learning.
Allows for Collaborative projects, peer editing for compositions, and reinforcing course content
For more information:
The Computer Assisted Language Instruction Consortium
CALL on the Web

Blogs
Easy to use
Chronological
Close evaluation
Self-monitoring
Asynchronous for extended interaction
Individual feedback from teacher
Includes audio/video

Interactive Whiteboards
Interactive editing
Collaborative writing
Spelling games
Word activities
Sentence strips

Skype
Allows free voice/video calls over the internet
50 Ways to Use Skype in the Classroom

Wikis
Collaborative environments where multiple users can edit the pages
PBworks
Wetpaint
Wikia

Mind maps/Graphic Organizers
Vocabulary
Grammar
Diction
Syntax
Gliffy
Inspiration
Mindmeister

Word Art
Create poems
Use vocabulary
Tell a story
Wordle
PicLit

One Word
Practice writing
Free writes
One word.
So little time.

Activities
Randall's ESL Cyber Listening
Activities categorized by length or topic.
Arlyn Freed’s ESL/EFL Listening Resources
Provides reviews of web sites, pros/cons, technology used, suggestions
Manythings
Activities where students listens to songs and fill in the blanks, listen/read along to authentic pieces such as speeches and joke, podcasts

Word Puzzles
Crossword Puzzles
Word searches
Discovery Puzzlemaker
Instant Online PM

Advantages
Increased motivation
Learning tailored to student
Authenticity
Critical thinking skills
Collaboration/communication
Easy interaction with instructor
Fast and individualized feedback
Multimodal practice and repetition
Fun to use
More time efficient way to complete oral assignments
Real life skill building for technology use
Addresses multiple learning styles

Disadvantages
Cost
Time to execute
Preparation for design and development
Technology constraints
Internet safety
Inability to control inappropriate content
Necessary skills for teacher and student
Sometimes technology does not work when you want it to!

Resources:
Masters, A.. (2009, March). 4 Ways to Engage Today's Generation of Students. Techniques, 84(3), 8-9. Retrieved July 28, 2009, from ProQuest Education Journals.
Pino, D.. (2008). Web-Based English as a Second Language Instruction and Learning: Strengths and Limitations. Distance Learning, 5(2), 65-71. Retrieved July 28, 2009, from ProQuest Education Journals.
Siskin, Claire (2008, 02 21). Computer- Assisted Language Learning. Retrieved July 28, 2009, from CALL on the WEB Web site: http://www.edvista.com/claire/call.html