My Beliefs about LL & Technologies
I have recently begun learning Spanish through the
university, I have also been fortunate enough to learn about language learning
and technology for education. I believe I have gained some valuable insights
into language learning and technology. I have been provided with a breadth of
knowledge pertaining to various teaching and learning approaches, and
particularly how these relate to language learning. Through my subjects I have
also had the opportunity to explore the increasing use of technology in
education, and some applications, blogs and podcasts that supplement language
learning.
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| Spain |
I believe the role of the learner is almost entirely
determined based upon the method of teaching applied by the educator. For
example the constructionism pedagogical teaching approach wherein the “teacher
takes on mediational role rather than adopting an instructionist position” (Howell, 2012) Contrastingly, the didactic
teaching method is consistent with a traditional teaching approach in which the
teacher is the vessel of knowledge, ”the didactic approach to teaching
primarily involves lecturing and is essentially teacher-centred.” (Banning, 2005). Another example pedagogical approach for
language learning is CLT or Communication language teaching theory, based
around the notion that “learners are capable of more than imitation and in fact
that they generate and manage their own meanings.” (Lo Bianco, 2009) In my experience I am
increasingly experiencing student-centred teaching pedagogies such as
Connectivism, Constructivism and Constructionism.
However underlying the pedagogical approach, I believe
language learning requires students to maintain a more active role in their
learning, particularly making an effort to get involved in class. Teachers of
languages must also be dynamic in ensuring the participation of all students.
Students and teachers of language learning face further challenges in that they
must not only be informed of the content, but also reinforcing correct
pronunciation and overall understanding. As a result of this, constant
communication between students and teachers becomes even more essential. Teachers
must be openly encouraging and facilitating conversation and questions from
students, nurturing an accessible environment in which students feel confident
asking and answering questions. Students should endeavour to respond to and ask
as many questions as possible. Optimum language learning demands both party’s
active engagement and an effective relationship between students and teachers.
What kinds of
strategies, processes and approaches help you learn languages and what do you
find challenging and why?
In my short time at University though I have been fortunate enough to engage in alternative, more effective learning and teaching methods with an emphasis on language immersion. My Spanish teacher has condoned the use of English in class, and speaks only Spanish during class. This techniques forces students to listen attentively, and immerses them in the language, improving overall understanding and teaching nuance words that may otherwise be missed. I find this strategy creates extremely engaging lessons and I believe my pronunciation, listening and speaking skills have developed greatly more so than they would have using traditional, rote-learning methods. This approach is quite challenging however, effective listening skills are crucial, also it may demoralize some students that prefer less interactive learning. In my classes I have heard only praise for this style.
What role does
technology have to play in your language learning (what role does it currently
play, how else would you like to use it?)
Technology currently maintains a relatively minor role in my
language learning, however its influence is growing. The role of technology in
my language learning currently refers to me being required to go online and
access audio questions to respond to in my text book. It is however not limited
to this, I often make use of an application on my iphone called Translator to
translate words whilst I am doing assessment or homework. Additionally, for a
brief period I was making use of another application called Duolingo to improve
my overall Spanish. I have since stopped using this application due to its
irrelevance, as it unable to use the lessons relevant to my Spanish class
before I had completed some unrelated ones.
I would like to supplement my language learning with
technology, and there are innumerable programs, applications, websites and
podcasts available to me. Despite this, I have so far struggled to find content
that is engaging enough for me to want to use, whilst still being relevant. I have however found use for a technology that
in many ways directly reflects my beliefs about technology for learning. What I
am referring to is the website for my Spanish text book, ‘Dos Mundos’. http://highered.mcgraw-hill.com/sites/0073385212/student_view0/paso_c/vocabulario_c.html
In addition to providing audio clips required for homework tasks, this website
contains tests on each chapter of the text book, and pronunciation guides, all
free and downloadable. I would like to make greater use of these resources as I
continue to learn Spanish.
I personally find computers as the most useful technology for my purposes. I first begun utilizing computers as an entertainment tool, but as more educational institutes take advantage of the internet, collaboration tools and countless other technologies, I am increasingly required to use my computer for educational purposes. It is no longer possible to access most university resources without a computer or the internet. However this is just one of many affordances offered by the computer relating to university work, I am also able to easily access innumerable relevant resources. I am able to instantly store my work securely in multiple places and communicate with teachers and students. Arguably the most beneficial affordance presented by the computer for my language learning, is the ability to go online and utilize resources directly relating to my Spanish text book online. I am able to transfer these audio files and test details to other platforms such as my phone, allowing me to work on, and listen to Spanish on the go. I believe such multi-platform educational tools are the future of technology for education.
What are your expectations of language learning and technology use – in class and outside of class?
My beliefs about language learning and technology use inside and outside of class are that they can potentially supplement language learning if used effectively. However I also believe that technology has the potential to be distracting and irrelevant for language learning and is by no means a total substitute for quality traditional style teaching. I expect continual growth in the usage of technology for language learning both in and outside the classroom. Increasingly, educators are taking advantage of online resources, specifically for their own teaching, the content of the lessons and a means of communication and collaboration. A major drawback from technology is that it can be extremely distracting, and a significant challenge is faced in shifting the current generation’s conditioning towards technology for entertainment purposes only. As technology improves I believe it will become more fundamental both outside, and inside the classroom.
Have your beliefs changed at all during this course? If so, what been most influential to that change?
My beliefs about language learning and technology have definitely changed through this course. I had previously been unaware of the potentials of technology in supporting language learning, I was introduced to a number of technologies that I could utilize for my own learning. The guest speaker was extremely interesting and provided some great insight into the future potentials for language learning technology. The most influential things I have learnt were primarily the various teaching methods and pedagogical approaches such as language immersion. Applying these to my own learning scenario, I have been able to identify what methods I prefer, and the styles in which I would like to teach in the future.
What concerns do you have about your digital identity as a language learner and how do you address these concerns?
I have little concerns over my digital identity as a
language learner. Currently, most technology for language learning does not
require a high level of personal details to be exposed. However, it may be
possible that future technologies require the input of personal details, I
believe these sources will for the most part be very secure.
My Recommendations
for Second Language Teaching and Learning:
Drawing upon my experience exploring language learning and
my own second language acquisition I have a number of suggestions directed at
students and teachers eager to teach or learn a second language. Through
conversation with my colleagues also learning languages, I have discovered that
the majority prefer a language immersion style teaching approach. Many
complained about poor teaching methods used during the schooling years, often
pertaining to less engaging, rote-learning, teacher-centred style approaches. Additionally, for those students wishing to
get more out of their language learning, or making the process more interactive
and engaging, there are countless applications, websites and podcasts freely
available that offer potential value. Finally, outlining smart, engaging,
achievable goals and performing self-assessment and review are a great way to maximise
your second language acquisition.
