The Adoption of Technologies in Language Teaching
The adoption of technologies for the goal of teaching languages has advanced significantly. The use of computers in schools and the adoption of personal tablet technologies in classrooms are two examples of how software and hardware advancements have produced useful tools that improve the learning experience in both formal and informal sectors. This essay demonstrates how these technologies have changed the way people study languages, how they aid others in language learning, and how they have personally used these technologies.
Technologies that Assist in Language Learning
Reading, writing, speaking, and listening are the four major skill sets that are acquired in order to learn a language. Technologies assist pupils in becoming proficient in each of these areas. For one, word processors allow students to continually practice grammar and vocabulary skills. They provide a benefit over traditional pen and paper learning by facilitating faster exchange between the teachers and the students allowing for corrections as well as giving the students the ability to constantly edit their work to adopt the lessons they learn (Williams). When it comes to interactions on the internet, computer also provides a sheltered environment by allowing the user to be anonymous. This reduces the fear of making mistakes allowing for the student to lower their inhibitions and gain more confidence by making then learning from their mistakes (Motteram). Some studies have shown that using web-based tools to supplement traditional classroom learning techniques, especially when it comes to teaching English as a second language, has proved to be more effective than if traditional tools were used alone (Wang). On top of this, adoption of the internet as a learning tool provides a vast amount of resources for students to use as well as accessibility to these resources. This provides the students with more tools as well as options to find tools better suited to their specific needs.
Changing the Way Language is Studied
The technologies have also changed the way language is studied. It has added multisensory elements to the learning process, providing resources that make use of audio-visual avenues which have a stronger effect on language learning. These tools have also increased interaction. From social media to language software, technology has made use of the dynamic nature of language to stimulate students learning it and provide avenues where they can practice. Now students can learn from native language speakers and understand nuances in language that a classroom setting with traditional tools are is unable to provide. For instance, Australian students are allowed the opportunity to use these tools to overcome the challenge of insufficient interactions with native aboriginal speakers (Ramasubbu). Indeed, the chief effect that these technologies have had on the way that language has been studied over the decades has been the aiding and augmenting of the learning process. Increased interactivity has also been a result. Similarly, computers and other tools such as mobile phones becoming more personal, translating into even more personal and interactive learning environments.
Personal Experience with Language Learning Technologies
My personal experience with the tools has come from the purchase of the Rosetta Stone software which allows me insights into the German language. The software application provides both writing and speaking lessons, an opportunity to use my computer's microphone to gauge the accuracy of my pronunciation, and augmenting my listening skills by having me listen to native German speakers. This interactive nature made learning a less daunting task and increased my grasp of the German lingo.
Conclusion
Indeed, technology is beneficial to the language learning process for both first languages where children are engaged, to second languages where adults are involved. The technologies serve to make the process easier, faster, and much more personal, improving the whole experience. Subsequently, language learning is augmented and complemented by the use of technology.
Works Cited
Ramasubbu, Suren. “How Technology Can Help Language Learning”. HuffPost, Jun. 2016, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/suren-ramasubbu/how-technology-can-help-l_b_7489002.html. Accessed October 2, 2017.
Motteram, Gary. "The benefits of new technology in language learning." British Council Voices, Sep. 2013, https://www.britishcouncil.org/voices-magazine/the-benefits-new-technology-language-learning. Accessed October 2, 2017.
Wang, Shenggao, and Vasquez Camilla. "Web 2.0 and second language learning: What does the research tell us?" Calico Journal, no. 29, 2012 pp. 412-430.
Williams, Martin. "Is technology a silver bullet for language teaching and learning." The Guardian, 2014, http://www.theguardian.com/teacher-network/teacherblog/2014/may/12/technology-language-teaching-learningpedagogy. Accessed October 2, 2017.
