This June I began my Master’s studies in Education: Information Technology. During the program I will also be completing my ESOL endorsement. I believe that technology is a great tool for teachers to incorporate into their classroom. It is something that engages students’ interests and connects them to information in a new way. There are multiple ways to incorporate technology into a classroom that are free to use and are easy to learn. Many of these tools can be an asset to an ESOL teacher, not only will they engage the learner, but engage them in a real world way, allowing them to connect to others, listen and analyze their oral language development, and share their learning.
Having student blogs is one way to interact ESL students in their language learning. Blogs are free to setup and with a knowledgeable instructor easy to learn how to use. What is wonderful about blogs is that students can process information in a written format or, with podcasts and videos, orally. Blogs also allow students to connect to other language learners throughout the world who they can teach and learn from.
The following video is a great example of how technology and student blogs can captivate ESL learners and empower them in their learning.
Lauren Nixon 