Technology in the classroom

Technology in Language Teaching

Technology in language teaching is not new. Tape recorders, language laboratories, and video have been in use since the 1960s and 1970s. In the early 1980s Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) is appeared. CALL has moved beyond the use of computer programs. TELL (Technology Enhanced Language Learning) appeared in the 1990s, in response to the growing possibilities offered by the internet and communications technology. Younger learners are growing up with technology and integrated part of their lives. There is some reason for using technology:
- English an international language is being used in technologically mediated context.
- It is a way to bring outside world into the classroom
Using technology in teaching becomes as natural as the use of books or pens and paper.

Attitudes to technology

Many people are afraid of new technology, and with the increasing presence of the internet and computers. But it is appeared new terms, there are:
- Technophobe
It is term of people who might be wary of these developments.
- Digital native
It is the term of people who coined to refer to some one who grows up using technology and who feels comfortable and confident with it-typically today’s children.
- Digital immigrants
It is term of people who have come late to the world of technology, if at all.

Implementing Information Communications Technology (ITC) in the classroom

You will need to use the internet mainly as a resource with your learners
- using websites
- internet-based project work, and a class blog,
- First, you can start with simple tools and projects in class, such as webquest.
- For younger learners, you may want to use some of the ready-made materials and websites available on internet.
- For learners with very low IT skills, a good place to start is with simple word processing task. Try to pair up more technically experienced learners with the absolute novices for any ITC-based class work.
- If the computers are linked to the internet, learners can also be encouraged to work on internet-based project.


Skills and equipment for getting started

The basic skills you do need are how to use simple word processing program, how to access and use internet. Some essential equipment in order to start to implement technology with your learners:
- at least one computer (prefer one per two students)
- an Internet connection
- a printer
- an audio card in the computer, and a headset for every computer
- Basic software (word processing program, web browser, and email program)