This document discusses the increasing role of technology in language teaching classrooms. It outlines how the printing press and internet have revolutionized society and education. While use of information and communications technology (ICT) like computer-assisted language learning (CALL) is not yet widespread, technology is becoming more important and integrated as internet access grows, students are increasingly digital natives, English is used technologically, and technology allows new ways to practice and assess skills in a mobile environment. Ultimately, the document argues that technology provides valuable tools for language teaching when integrated effectively under skilled teaching.

1. Technology in the classroomTechnology in the classroom

2. Technology in language
teaching
• The printing press – revolution
• INTERNET has reshaped nearly all
aspects of society.
• A computer and a telephone line

3. ICT (Information and
Communications Technology)
• CALL (Computer Assisted Language
Learning)
• TELL (Technology Enhanced
Language Learning)

4. Although the use of ICT by language
teachers is still not widespread, the use of
technology in the classroom is becoming
increasingly important, and it will become
a normal part of ELT practice in the
coming years. Why?
Internet access is becoming available for
learners.
Young learners are growing up with
technology (digital natives).

5. English is being used in technologically
mediated contexts.
Technology is offered with published
materials such as coursebooks and resource
books for teachers.
It offers new ways for practising language
and assessing performance.
It’s becoming increasingly mobile.
Using a range of ICT tools give learners
exposure to and practice in all of the four
main language skills.

6. Some negative comments from teachers

7. Final comment
Though technology provides a valuable
medium for helping bring classrooms
alive, successful results depend on
how this technology is used. In the end,
it is not the technology itself but the
teaching that makes the difference.