According to Rennee Ybarra and Tim Green in their article Using Technology to Help ESL/EFL Students Develop Language Skills, Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) has been shown in a range of studies to assist learning in a variety of ways. The article focuses on five major ways that CAI assists learning. Through differentiation of instruction, incorporating various learning strategies, providing immediate feedback on performance, engagement and it can be used as a model for writing. CAI can assist in differentiation of instruction by allowing students to practice skills at their level. There are many websites available for teachers to choose from that they can assign according to readiness level. Another really great aspect of CAI is that it can provide immediate feedback to students. This is an efficient way for students to get feedback on their progress and to know if they understand the material without waiting a few days for the teacher to correct their work. Immediate feedback can even prevent students from doing incorrect work until they get feedback from the teacher or from a test they failed!
The studies done in this article proved that 1-verbal interaction and the use of a variety of language functions by English language learners can be facilitated by the use of a computer, 2- the learning process can be made more effective for some through the use of computers and 3- technology improves parent involvement in their child’s education. It is important to remember that computers and technology are not a substitute for effective instruction and teaching. Computers and technology are effective tools teachers can use to supplement instruction and engage students.
Click here for link to article.
Resize the picture...it encroaches on the rest of your page.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like I could apply these various techniques to all learning situations. Most obviously I think technology can differentiate, provide immediate feedback. I think I need more information regarding "engagement" and "model for writing."