Technology and Learning English
The rapidly advancing age of technology has made
it possible to overcome many different challenges in our world today. But the
benefits and versatility of technology are not as evident as it is with
learning English. This is why more advocates support the integration of
technology into education. The positive influence of technology when learning
English is valuable and can maximize the overall experience.
As technology becomes a major part in today’s
world, students can have more freedom and support to fully absorb the material.
More students are choosing to learn English online because of the increased
efficiency with lower costs. Technology and learning English go hand in hand
and here are some reasons why more prefer online lessons.
Technology Brings Opportunities
The biggest reason for incorporating technology
into education is the overall changes in global communication. What was once
inaccessible can now be easily reached by way of the internet. Technology opens
doors to many more opportunities by linking the world together. The olden days
of limited options for education are long gone and all thanks to technological
advances. Students will not only have flexibility with online schooling but
also have access to more resources.
Virtual Community of Learners
A pivotal aspect of learning English is to how
to communicate with others in a social setting. Though it may seem impossible
with online learning, the fact is exactly the opposite. Students now have a virtual
community of learners to discuss topics with, seek advice, or gain leadership
skills by helping others. Interactive whiteboards for instance, are a simple
but invaluable way for English learners to access helpful resources or lessons.
Instructors may include previous topics that are extremely important to
progress to the next level. In addition, Interactive whiteboards help a great
deal to support an online education and are a perfect example of how to
incorporate technology and learning English.
Spark Interest with Technology
Another benefit of mixing technology and
learning English is the possibility of heightening interest. A traditional
classroom setting is often not conducive to learning because the rote
strategies do not challenge or interest students. But technology has completely
changed the game and makes it easier for English learners to focus because the
content can be presented in a number of ways. Lessons that include
computer-based instruction, visual aids, and technologically advanced materials
help students achieve more in less time.
Increase in Accessibility
Technology is certainly not beneficial only for
education because just about everything has become more accessible nowadays. But
especially for learning English, having technical assistance and more
flexibility is the key to success. Traditional learning in a classroom is
extremely limited and can only be ongoing as long as students are present. However,
technology and learning English has allowed students to use mobile phones or laptops
for example, to access require information anytime they need. This not only
helps students to absorb the material but also offers valuable practice on the
proper ways to use tools of technology.
Learn Valuable Skills
Students prefer to blend technology and learning
English because of the valuable skills acquired throughout the lessons. Computer
software and online tools help learners to absorb the material much more easily
and also hone language skills that are useful. Technology is most successful in
maintaining the interest of students while engaging them in the lesson. It
helps to emphasize the essential building blocks of language learning including
vocabulary, comprehension, phonics, and overall fluency.
Build Confidence for Success
Students often feel discouraged in a classroom
setting because falling behind can be embarrassing and discouraging. But with a
course that incorporates technology and learning English, students can learn
with privacy and learn the vital skills of success. Technology cannot be
ignored even by English learners because all communication in social or
business networks use the internet in some form or another.
You, as the English Teachers
The International Teacher Training Organization
– ITTO –, the pioneer of a one-of-a-kind course, brings to the English teaching
community an online TESOL Technology course devoted to train English Teachers
to use or strengthen their knowledge in integrating technology devices in the
classroom. In this course you will learn to employ new techniques that go
beyond the use of conventional classroom items such as blackboards, chalk,
recorders, video-players, flashcards, books, photocopies, etc. These new
teaching tools provide excellent opportunities for language educators to
explore and use to enhance teaching and learning. Thus, you offer many
advantages to your learners on using Technology and Learning English.
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