In order to implement my GAME plan, I will research the options for implementing differentiated instruction through the use of technology. The amount of resources that are available for EFL language learning and teching is enormous. The access in my university to the different modes of technology and online materials is greater and gained more important than ever before. One of the major developments in our English language teaching program is the implementation of the coursebook software, our online workbook and the interactive white board. I will continue to participate in teacher development courses that will provide further insight to the use of the hardware and the software applied directly to the use of the Touchstone series.
Searching the internet is another great strategy for implementing in any language classroom. This is a great resource and can provide students and teachers with almost any type of information required for the classroom. In a collaborative effort, a team of five teachers and I have researched the Internet to identify online websites that will help students prepare for their Institutional TOEFL exam. Students will take the Exam on November 25th. Advise and recommendations are welcome.
Miriam
Miriam,
ReplyDeleteI was thinking about your comment last time that you were teaching English as a second language. I was thinking about some things I would love to do in Hong Kong if my uncle's offer is still opened for me to teach at his school. I was Facebooking with my nephew in Hong Kong and then, it came on me. The first thing that popped in my mind was, "Wow, wouldn't it be nice to if I could somehow connect my Hong Kong students to students in America on Facebook, so they would be able to use their new found language to communicate with someone who speaks it fluently?" This makes the communication more real and relevant since they are communicating with other students their age, picking up words that may not be in the textbook, but would have to look up in the dictionary. I believe students would be more motivated, and learn more words and grammar since they are determined to decipher the message. I find that exciting. I myself am in the process of learning kanji. It is difficult for me to memorize all the symbols but my 2nd grade nephew is teaching me and I teaching him English over Facebook. I still find it amazing.
Jennifer,
ReplyDeleteThis is a great idea. It would be wonderful to be able to connect, through Facebok, with a classroom in Hong Kong and finally experience the power of eliminating the physical barriers so that our students can communicate with others in the target language.
If students access social networking tools, they must be advised of internet safety. This site offers advise on this issue http://www.cyberangels.org/ I hope you fnd it useful.
Miriam
Miriam,
ReplyDeleteThe Internet is such a great resource for an interested public that is growing geometrically. I have been amazed at the great resources I have found for my classroom. If anything will improve your practices in the classroom, research and collaboration on the Internet has the greatest potential.
Keep it up, it sounds like you're on the right track.
Kim