Week 4: Brought up in a digital era

(Call me... Maybe: A Framework for Integration the Internet into ELT )

Brought up in a digital era

     The Internet plays a major role in the lives of young people today. They are engage in online activities both inside and outside the classroom. Also, they use the Internet, for instance, when searching for information and when completing tests. Informally, that is in their spare time, they chat with friends, play online computer games and are involved in fan fiction, i.e. using published material to create pictures and films etc.

     It is important that teachers have knowledge in the use of the Internet in planning / teaching for two reasons. First, a teacher who makes use of the Internet as an additional teaching tool will most likely earn his / her students' respect and regard, which in turn will give the teacher a sense of security and confidence. Second, lesson/course planning and teaching will most likely benefit from the teacher's knowledge and use of the Internet in his/her daily work. For instance, using the Internet in instruction increases students' motivation to learn English, fosters learners' responsibility for their studies, and motivates students to write when they know that their written products will be available to readers worldwide.

     Moreover, equally vital is to acknowledge learning that takes place inside the classroom through the use of ICT. A number of researchers point to the benefits of using the Internet in formal education, for example, the Internet is used in education because it facilitates learning, teaching and communication. It is possible to find a great deal of (course/subject) information online and to do so any time.


Rate: ✰✰✰✰