Reflections on the Use of Technology in the Teaching Process |
The use of technology in the classroom is an excellent way of motivating the students to learn a foreign language. The students, who are already so familiarized with computers and the Internet, are attracted to PowerPoint presentations of the target structure being discussed in class. Moreover, computer-enhanced learning with course management programs, such as ANGEL, provides students with the following advantages: (1) self-pacing, (2) immediate feedback, (3) opportunity for improvement, (4) easy access, and (5) varying activity types. First, the students can take the time they need to complete the on-line activities as long as they are submitted by the deadline. Second, they receive the results of the submitted activities immediately. Third, the students have multiple chances to submit the on-line activities. This allows them to learn from their mistakes and improve their grade. In addition, the on-line activities can be completed from any computer that has QuickTime and Flash, and accesses the Internet through a reliable Internet browser. This allows students to complete the on-line activities in a comfortable environment of their preference. Finally, the on-line system provides different types of activities in order to accommodate to the students’ diverse learning styles. |