TEFL Memphis

More than perhaps any other time in history, technology is playing a dramatic role in the way young people are learning and developing. To remain effective and progressive, it is becoming critical that educators not only stay abreast of the most current technologies, but actively work to integrate this technology into the classroom. In doing so, educators can actually help direct future development and enhancement of adopted technology. According to Eric Klopfer, Scot Osterweil, Jennifer Groff, and Jason Haas, “Technology can have a reciprocal relationship with teaching. The emergence of new technologies pushes educators to understanding and leveraging these technologies for classroom use; at the same time, the on-the-ground implementation of these technologies in the classroom can (and does) directly impact how these technologies continue to take shape.” (Eric Klopfer – The Instructional Power of Digital Games – 1). For the purposes of this paper, two technologies that can be immediately implemented in the classroom will be discussed. Special attention will be given to those classrooms where english is being taught as a second language. While many classrooms in the world do not have access to the necessary resources required for these technologies, this paper will be addressing those classrooms fortunate enough to have the required assets. For those classrooms capable of supporting modern technology, two technologies could be employed today with great success – Skype and Simulations. Skype “Skype is communications software whose purpose is to break down barriers to communication. With an Internet-connected device, families, friends and colleagues can get together for free with messaging, voice and video.” (Pat Wyman – How Educators Use Skype in the Classroom – 2). Skype has become an invaluable teaching tool in the classroom. Traditional classroom boundaries can be torn down, allowing students to speak face-to-face with other students and teachers from around the world. Classrooms can now access guest speakers who otherwise would not be able to visit due to logistic problems. For english language instructors, Skype can be a useful tool. Students can utilize Skype to converse with other native english speakers. Generally, many students only have their main instructor as a source of hearing native english. Allowing students to converse with as many differing english speakers as possible should aid the learning process. Additionally, “With more than 28,000 registered teachers and counting, in over 190 countries, Skype in the classroom has enabled hundreds of thousands of students around the world to take part in valuable shared learning experiences. Skype offers an immediate way to help students discover new cultures, languages and ideas, all without leaving the classroom.” (Pat Wyman – How Educators Use Skype in the Classroom – 2). For those classes where english business is taught, Skype is especially beneficial. Skype is one of the most utilized tools in international business today. By practicing how to operate the program and how best to communicate via it, students will increase their marketability. Simulations “Although analogous to digital games and often included in the gaming spectrum, simulations are analogies of a real world situations, as they recreate a modeled or modified version of a real world situation. One essential aspect that separates digital games from simulations is the lack of game dynamics or the “win state” that exists in digital games.” (Eric Klopfer – The Instructional Power of Digital Games – 1). One of the more effective simulation resources for teachers of english is the online portal Second Life. Second Life is an online world in which a student can create an avatar that can walk around, meet other avatars, and visit digital locations. Widely considered a social network, simulations can be created within Second Life to mirror countless real life situations. Checking in to a hotel, asking for directions, ordering at a restaurant, and all the other role-plays that are practiced in the classroom can now be done virtually with other native english speakers. english business students can now practice presentations in front of a virtual audience who can provide critical feedback prior to the real thing. Conclusion More than ever, students have a tremendous opportunity to learn english. New technologies that have arrived over the past few years have removed traditional barriers, allowing students to converse with native english speakers around the world while also practicing their skills in simulated environments. Properly implemented, new technologies like Skype and Second Life can not only enrich the classroom, but can also provide students with tools that they can utilize at home.