Reading through some articles and blogs this week I stumbled across one about the benefits of integrating technology into an ESL classroom. The blog brings up a good point that even in this technological age, many teachers are still hesitant to integrate technology into their classrooms. For many, it might be a lack of training, for others, they might feel like it doesn’t provide enough benefits.
So, what are some of the benefits of technology integration? This blog explored six main benefits of technology integration in an ESL classroom. I’d argue these benefits would extend to a general education classroom and beyond.
1. Increased student engagement/motivation: This is true for most technology integration. Learners today live in a technology rich environment. Bringing that norm into the classroom will often increase engagement instantly.
2. Mobility: Technology offers the ability to post your lessons on multiple platforms that will allow students to access them on the go. A student can access their learning management system on their smartphone while riding in a car, sitting at home, etc. If the assignments are also digital and use technology, they can complete the course work on their schedule too.
3. Tools for the future: Technology integration gives students practice with tools they will likely use in the future. ESL students need to not only lean English, but they also need to be able to function in the fast-paced global market. The market is driven by technology, so teaching technology fluency is vital to a student’s overall success.
4. Saves time: This one is for the teacher, not the student. As the blog rightly points out, many times we ignore the helpfulness of technology integration for the educator. When technology is integrated correctly, it can be a huge time saver for teachers. There is an entire industry being built consisting of technology/digital tools marketed to teachers.
5. Promotes independence: This goes together with mobility. Technology integration will give students the independence they often desire. They will be able to complete assignments on their time. Text-to-speech software will allow them to read texts above their reading level, and technology will allow them to look up words they don’t know.
6. Access to target culture: A big part of ESL instruction and language acquisition is experiencing the target culture. Technology opens the door for students to access a target culture without ever leaving home. They can visit social media, listen/watch videos, or access news of the culture. This will allow them to experience and use language in an authentic way.
The blog goes on to mention several useful technology tools for an ESL classroom. Check out the blog at https://www.fluentu.com/blog/educator-english/esl-technology-2/