Week 3: Podcasting in the teaching of English

         

 (Blending technologies in ESL and Integrating CALL into the Classroom)

 Podcasting in the teaching of English

        Something that made me want to read more about the application of CALL in classroom by using multimedia or podcast devices is that these are used to facilitate the teaching and learning of English language. Also, integration of those strategies have transformed classroom communication methods and modified instruction strategies ,and also it  have made teaching and learning interactive and collaborative instead of the traditional teacher- talking and students listening approach. Moreover, the application of podcast in the learning and teaching of English creates opportunity for the teacher to bring almost real life situation in to the classroom. This can be used in different ways by teachers, such as improve their listening as a main objective, get meaningful knowledge, their communicative skill, and reasoning manner .Podcasts are becoming increasingly popular in education while this use of podcasts allows for more student control and flexibility of learning, some researchers assume that podcasting will foster and enhance the concepts and skills addressed in class. To sum up, time is a factor involved with language learning, and classroom time is limited, it is important to find new ways to motivate students to practice their language skills as often as possible. Podcasting offers a way to do this. This tool can be integrated into the language learning curriculum, providing students with authentic and simulated environments that can be used to practice their language skills. 

Rate: ☆☆☆☆☆

Week 2: The revolution of ICT in the learning development.

(Effectiveness of the Integration of ICT Tools and Activities to Foster Awareness as the First Stage to Reach Learning Autonomy)

The revolution of ICT in the learning development.

The reading for this week was really interesting for me because it encouraged teaching strategies that aimed to increase the autonomy of learners so that students engaged in self-direct learning .Also, how ICT tools presents a powerful learning environment for learners in the classroom, and how ICT is viewed as an effective tool for renewing educational practice. Moreover, the integration of information and communications technology in teaching and learning is considered as a medium in which a variety of approaches and pedagogical philosophies may be implemental. However, ICT as a teaching aid is more complicated in that it demands more specific skills from the teachers because of that,  teachers have to acknowledge that they need to prepare more their lesson plans to be the class more interactive, dinamic and promote their cognitive developed to their students. Besides, encouraging learner autonomy, and consequently releasing teacher time to get to know their learners better and more carefully to adapt their teaching to learners’ needs.

I will give four stars to this article because it was useful for me. This article made me to think these following characteristics the use of ICT to encourage the learning process effective and autonomy

ICT is a powerful tool to raise levels of literacy.

• Computers and multimedia software provide attractive ways of learning.
• The web enables access to the best materials and the most exciting learning opportunities.
• Learners who use ICT for basic skills double the value of their study time, acquiring two sets of skills at the same time.

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Week 1: Digital era in the language learning

Digital era in the language learning

     Something I learned from this article and that every teacher should know was the role of computers and other technological devices in the language learning better known as CALL (Computers and language learning) Also, how CALL modernized and improved the education process. Moreover, technology allows educators to become better teachers.

        The article “Computers and language learning” is divided in three main parts. First, educators need to be aware of the principles and importance that CALL has since it can help to enhance in a positive way the learning process of students in the classroom. Second, the use of electronic devices. It makes a class interactive by applying a variety of technological tools in the classroom, such as software developer that provides practice with any skill. It improves their skills in a more enjoyable way, and learners participate more by using virtual tools. Finally, the use of CALL can enhance the learning process making topics easier to cover. Also, more and more schools require more extensive use of technology, and exposure to technology helps prepare students for this reality. It is important for educators to keep up to date on technological possibilities in lesson preparation and use in classroom. To conclude, technology is a part of today’s world. In order to prepare students for the world, they need to be exposed to the latest technologies on a daily basis in classrooms. It is important to emphasize that as a future teachers provide a friendly and interesting atmosphere and effective for students to learn.
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