I chose to read chapter ten, which is about technology in foreign and second language instruction. I chose this chapter because using technology to help EL students is not a topic I am very knowledgeable of. I was interested in learning how I could incorporate it into my future classroom.
Advantages of Integrating Technology:
One of the benefits the chapter discussed was technology motivates students to use new language skills. Technology takes the pressure off of learning new language skills. When allowed to practice their newly learned language skills with mobile devices, EL students could receive a break from the pressure of constantly engaging in class and partner discussions. EL students may be more motivated to practice their skills during this break because they are able to work at their own pace.
Another benefit of integrating technology in foreign and second language instruction is it allows students to "visit" locations and have experiences not available to them in person. Many EL students have never seen or experienced the vocabulary they are being taught so they have nothing to attach the newly learned words to. Technology enables these students to view pictures of objects or "tour" places the students may not have access to otherwise.
http://www.bookbox.com/ BookBox is an excellent website where students can view and listen to stories in one language along with second language captions. Students can see the words highlighted as the narrator reads them aloud. The video that goes along with the story also reinforces the text for EL learners.
Disadvantages of Integrating Technology:
The book mentioned that the overall issue for teachers is finding ways of applying technologies that can help address the needs of many differing students for whom English may be a second or even a third language and who may not be literate in any language. Another issue that many teachers face is finding time to use technologies in ways that might enrich the learning experiences while making sure the EL students still meet state required criteria.
I still feel that technology can be used as a part of EL instruction as long as it does not make up the entire curriculum. Students must be able to apply language skills beyond the "screen" to personal conversations with others.
http://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED492159.pdf This paper, written by William Allan Kritsonis, provides an interesting list of disadvantages of integrating technology into second language instruction.
Specific Activities, Programs, Etc.:
WorldLingo: http://www.worldlingo.com
Google Translate: http://www.translate.google.com
Simple Wikipedia: http://www.simple.wikipedia.com
VocabGrabber: http://www.visualtheasaurus.com/vocabgrabber
The WorldPenScan by Penpower
The Mixxer
Brainpopp ELL: http://www.brainpopesl.com
Fluent English by Fluentizer
Spanish Flashcards by Declan Software
