Application of Technologies to Assist and Help English ... · Web viewLanguage acquisition is a vital part in the holistic development of a child which encompasses the physical,

Running head: TECHNOLOGIES AND ENGLISH LEARNERS 1

Application of Technologies to Assist and Help English Learners

Author

Institution

TECHNOLOGIES AND ENGLISH LEARNERS

Application of Technologies to Assist and Help English Learners

Chapter 2

Review of Relevant Literature

Primary Language Acquisition and English Learning

Language and our ability to utilize it set humans apart from other species. Our unique

communicative ability makes us the top creature in the animal kingdom. Our language is a very

important tool in communication and interaction with other people. Children are born with the

inherent ability to learn language. Children are born with the ability to produce speech simply

through the words they hear (Brown, n.d.). Despite the differences in parent-child interaction in

different countries and cultures, the language acquisition of children usually starts at the same

rate. Language acquisition is a vital part in the holistic development of a child which

encompasses the physical, social and cognitive development. It is clear that children must be

exposed to language and must be able to use it through interaction with other people (Clark,

2009).

There are still unexplored areas in language acquisition and development in children. A

child’s language is constantly changing and developing as children are good and constant

communicators and actively engaging in communication. Through the child’s communication

and interaction that they get the background to relate the language to the sound, meaning,

relationships, and purpose that it represents. Children expand their development by relating to

what they already know. Play is one of the children’s ways in expanding their language abilities

and the introduction of new terms and vocabulary (Clark, 2009).

Most children in the world speak at least two languages. Bilingualism is present in most

countries. It has no negative effects on the child; instead produce more opportunities and

2


advantages to the child. English is a language that is often studied by non-English speaking

students. English is one of the common languages popular in the world. Like adults, children

vary in speed in acquiring their second language. Children also vary in fluency and facility over

the language. English Language Learners (ELLs) are slowly plaguing the educational institutions

who try to acquire knowledge and facility of the English language. With the increasing number

of immigrants arriving in the United States, the number of public school students in need of

additional language instruction dramatically increase in the recent years. English language

learners represent the fastest-growing population in the school setting (cited in Flynn & Hill,

2005). A study showed that over four million students with limited proficiency in English were

enrolled in public schools across the nation, making up almost the 10percent of the total

population of pre-K up to 12th grade (Editorial Projects in Education, 2004). However, language

acquisition is a complex process and appropriate teaching strategies must be used. For example,

oral language must come first for English learners. When a student acquires the oral language,

they can proceed in learning the writing and reading in English (“Literacy Development for ELL

Students”, n.d.).

Language-minority students who are not competent in writing and reading in English

cannot fully participate in schools, workplaces and society. They often face limited job

opportunities and earning power. Teaching language-minority students to read and write in

English in order to render equal educational and professional opportunities is an urgent challenge

to the nation’s K-12 schools. Literacy and fluency in English is essential in every academic

pursuit (August & Shanahan, 2006). Sorting out what we know about teaching language-

minority students. No single program will work for the diverse needs of students (Linquanti,

1999). Programs and information that aim to improve language proficiency in English learners

3


and help them meet the standards adopted and implemented by the State Board of Education

(California Department of Education, n.d.). The U.S. Department of Education greatly supported

the English language acquisition of students. The department devoted a special division that will

facilitate and address the issues and concerns regarding English language acquisition. The Office

of English Language Acquisition (OELA) aims to ensure that English language learners and

immigrant students will achieve English proficiency and to assist in building the nation’s

capacity in foreign languages. The office address major issues affecting the education of English

language learners and assists and supports educational reforms that emphasize higher academic

standards (OELA, 2009).

Technology in Educational Setting

We currently live in a modern and digital society. Through the rapid and unprecedented

advancement in science and innovation, various technologies, tools, and gadgets have been

invented that render convenience to people, and these high-end technologies are then integrated

into their lifestyle. Thus, it was discovered in many studies that people spend most of their time

using the computer and/or the Internet. The invention of the computer and the Internet has

become beneficial to mankind as it helps people in many ways. For example, researching and

looking up vital information has become easier and considerably faster through the Internet.

Also, the acquisition of news and information has become instantaneous with the use of these

technologies. Moreover, it has become an essential tool in communication across the globe.

At present, technology is regarded as the key to one’s future success, and it currently

presents its importance in different aspects and fields of the society. In fact, the influence and

importance of various technologies is so far-reaching that they have extended to the field of

education. With the undeniable benefits of the different technologies to humankind, integrating

4


technologies into the educational system and curriculum is of vital importance as this will

certainly be beneficial to the students. Moreover, it will provide proper and adequate scholarly

training and familiarity to students at an early age of the different facets of various technologies.

Thus, it is better to have pertinent knowledge about the technological reforms as early as

possible. Since children learn much faster and can easily adapt to changes, being trained

regarding the various technological advancements during their formative years will provide them

with more chances of becoming an expert in technology. If man’s future lies in technology, it is

best to introduce it during school years. It is better to give children at least the basic idea of the

technological reforms than to see them struggling to learn it later in life (Oak, 2008).

Studies have shown that the use of technology is beneficial to students and allows them to

improve in various areas of education like writing, reading and math skills. The integration of

technology also helps in encouraging students to go to school and provide a more interesting and

convenient way of learning. It also enhances their learning abilities. Technology in school largely

benefits students during their higher education as it serves as a strong foundation on a successful

professional life of an individual (Oak, 2008). Recent statistics show that the number of

computers in public schools has increased in a very steep rate over the past decade. Based on the

report of Rand Corporation, “the number of computers available per student increased from a

ratio of 1:125 in 1983 to a ratio of 1:9 in 1995” (as cited in Yau, 1999, n.p.).

The Internet offers a wide array of information and can offer much livelier form of

learning. The inclusion of technology in the educational setting can make learning an enjoyable

activity and invite greater interests to kids (Oak, 2008). Specifically, the adoption and application

of technological systems in the educational setting will largely help our English learners in

learning their second language in a far more convenient way. It can make the whole learning

5


process of ESL and EL a more enjoyable activity and ease the difficulty that the students

experience in the conventional method of learning. The integration of technological systems in

school aids students in learning the subject. Moreover, they also acquire essential skills and

values upon utilizing technology in learning.

Limited-English-Proficiency (LEP)

There are individuals who do not speak English as their primary language. Commonly,

these are people from a different ethnicity and cultural background as well as immigrants from

other countries. Some people have a limited ability to speak, write, read, and understand English.

These people can be limited English proficient (LEP). Most citizens in the United States are

proficient and fluent in the English language. However, there are many individuals who primary

language is not English—26 million individuals speak Spanish and almost 7 million speak Asian

or Pacific Island language when at home (U.S. Department of Transportation, n.d.).

“Language for LEP individuals can be a barrier to accessing important benefits or

services, understanding and exercising important rights, complying with applicable

responsibilities, or understanding other information provided by federally funded programs and

activities” (U.S. Department of Transportation, n.d., n.p.). The Federal Government is currently

funding a wide array of services for eligible LEP persons and is committed in improving these

programs and activities to help individuals learn the English language (U.S. Department of

Transportation, n.d.).

Since 1992, the number of LEP students has nearly doubled, with the population mainly

composed of Latino students. These alarming statistics proved the importance of ensuring

success in areas of academic excellence and that teachers provide them the opportunity to learn

and excel. “The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 clearly sets a goal for LEP students to meet

6


the same challenging state academic achievement standards and state academic content standards

expected of all students” (Svedkauskaite, Reza-Hernandez, & Clifford, 2003, n.p.). The law also

mandates that every student should acquire facility in technology by eighth grade, regardless of

the students’ background and socioeconomic status. Thus, educational technology, when used as

a learning tool, can increase opportunities for students to grow.

Application of Technology to LEP Learners

Technology offers new frontier to students when it comes to learning. The infusion of

technology in the classroom setting will enhance the learning of the student and enable students

to learn in multitude of ways that were not previously possible. The success of integration of

technology is achieved through the careful selection of technological tools that will help the

students obtain the information in a timely manner (Svedkauskaite et al., 2003). Moreover, the

success of the infusion of technology requires competent and knowledgeable teachers that can

handle the program.

Various researches have highlighted many benefits of utilizing instructional technology

with LEP students. Competent use of computers and other technological tools prevent LEP

students from academic and social marginalization. It also allows students to take control over

the direction and pace of their learning. Some of the benefits offered by instructional technology

to students are it is motivational and nonjudgmental. It gives students prompt feedback based on

their performance and activities. It also individualizes their learning and tailors the instructional

sequence. The use of technology can meet the specific needs of the students when it comes to

their learning. It also gives them autonomy for a greater sense of responsibility. Moreover, it

promotes equal opportunities to all students and fosters cooperation with their peers

(Svedkauskaite et al., 2003).

7


The use of technology immerses LEP students in a rich, linguistic environment and

provides them with the opportunity to interact in a multicultural and multiracial online

community where they can further learn about the language. Moreover, the online community

and forums are an informal way of learning where students can show more of themselves and not

be afraid nor intimidated. They will not be embarrassed by not knowing the answers, for not all

the participants of the online community and forums are professional and experts in the field.

Thus, it gives them the opportunity to freely interact with other people, learn on their own, and

build their self-confidence (Svedkauskaite et al., 2003).

The integration of technology in classrooms offers LEP students new opportunities to

learn in a variety of ways aside from the conventional way of learning from the teacher and the

textbook. They have their peers who can impart their ideas and knowledge to others, and they

can explore various educational activities together. The more opportunities provided to them, the

greater the chance for them to learn. Admittedly, the use of technology in learning is a fun way of

learning and highly motivates the students to attend to their lessons.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Learners

There are many people from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds who do not speak

English as their primary language. They are commonly referred to as English as a Second

Language Learners (ESL). The term is used to describe individuals who study or speak English

as a second language in an English-speaking country. The “a” in the phrase “a second language”

means that there is no presumption that English is acquired as the second language of the

individual.

A large number of students 18 years old and above are availing the government's ESL

programs for the purpose of learning better English skills. Thus, there is a need for the

8


continuation of the programs served by the Federal Government.

According to figures compiled by the U.S. Census Bureau, almost 80 percent of the 26.4

million immigrants living in the United States are older than 18. The National

Clearinghouse for ESL Literacy Education (NCLE) reports that in 1998, 2 million adults

and out-of-school youths enrolled in U.S. Department of Education-funded ESL

programs. The sheer numbers of those adult ESL students demonstrate that English-

language programs cannot stop at the doors of the high school but must be included in

district-run continuing education programs. (Starr, 2001, n.p.)

ESL learners experience difficulties in their facility over and fluency in the English

language. The difficulties experienced by ESL students may vary depending on the person. Some

ESL learners find it hard to speak in English, while others are having a hard time reading and

comprehending text in English. Learning the English language is a tough hill to climb for ESL

learners. The most difficulty that is faced by learners in studying English is the difference of

English from their native language. For example, a Chinese trying to learn English will

experience more difficulty than a German who is also trying to learn English as German is more

related to English than Mandarin. This may also be proven true of anyone of any native language

setting out to learn another language.

ESL learners often produce errors in pronunciation of words and syntax such as

inappropriate grammatical patterns due to the influence of their native language. This is also

known as language interference. This dilemma mostly occurs among beginners or those who are

in the early stage of learning the language. English is not a complex language; however, it has

several features that may create difficulties for learners. It is of vital importance to bear in mind

that learning a second language involves so much more than learning the words and the sounds

9


of a language. The communication between people does not only involve syntax and

pronunciation, but it also involves learning the culture. What is perceived right and proper in a

culture does not always translate the same to another culture, even though the vocabulary is

understandable. The communication process in a language also involves not only spoken words

but also understanding the prevailing culture that embodies the language.

Another difficulty experienced by the ESL learners is understanding the English

language. Native speakers of English tend to speak the language in a fast manner and they tend

to slur the words out. Also, Americans and other native English speakers sometimes use slang

language when informally talking to someone. The ESL learners usually have a difficult time in

comprehending this type of speaking. The idiomatic expressions are very tricky for ESL learners

as well as and their meaning is so different from the meaning of the words used in the

expressions. Moreover, in English, one word can have more than one meaning or can be used in

more than one’s part of speech.

Application of Technology to ESL

Inspired by the rapid development of technology from the 1980s, the computer has

become an influential component in second language learning pedagogy. Educators recognized

that utilizing computer technology as well as various language learning programs can be

convenient to create both independent and collaborative learning environments and provide

students with language learning experiences as they move through the stages of their learning

(Lai, 2006). Computer technology and its application to the mode of instruction are beneficial to

the ESL learners. The Internet in particular offers an abundant of opportunities through different

sites and computer applications like chat rooms, electronic mail, and other interactive projects

utilizing the computer technology. Emerging technologies provide a wide array of opportunities

1


for even more learning experiences. Hence, the infusion of technology in the educational system

for ESL students does not only facilitate learning but also help students to learn more efficiently

and to achieve better results.

Educators stressed that the current computer technology has many advantages for ESL

learning. Students acquire a lot of benefits in the integration of technology in the educational

system. First, technology can adapt to the level of learning and on the needs of a student. The

technology is highly motivational and non judgmental. The ESL students experience more

comfort and easiness in accomplishing tasks through the technology since the technology just

presents the result of the student’s performance and does not criticize or judge the student. The

computer technology and language learning programs offer students more learning motivation.

Thus, it is motivational to students since the students enjoy the learning activities incorporated in

the technology. The mode of instruction and learning is not boring and tiring unlike the

traditional modes of learning.

The students can also track their own learning progress through individualized plans,

assignments, and activities. Feedback and assessment is readily handed to the student, and

students can easily track their performance based on the feedback and the results. As the

technology that will be used makes the activities individualized, the learning of a student will

depend on his or her own pace when he or she already understands the lesson. Moreover, the

technological systems tend to empower students to extend control over the course of their study

and learning.

Computer technology and language learning programs can provide ESL learners more

independence from classrooms and allow students to work on their learning material at any time

of the day (Lai, 2006). The inception of technology in the classroom setting can also render some

1


sort of independence to the students and take responsibility for their own learning. With the use

of technology, students can design their own learning and build self-instruction strategies.

Students can also reflect on their own mistakes and shortcomings and compensate them in the

next activity. Thus, the improvements in a student's performance are fast and continuous.

Different types of students can largely benefit from the individualized technology-learning

environment created by the computer technology. Studious learners can move on to a rapid pace

in learning and achieve higher levels of improvement. Through the use of technology, students

can study more independently and allows the teacher to focus on areas of ESL learning that

requires face-to-face interaction and impossible to be carried out through the technology.

Part of the benefits of the infusion of technology in learning is it reduces stress and

anxiety on the part of the students and the teachers. Computer-assisted language learning

programs can be a wonderful stimulus for ESL learners. It reduces levels of stress and anxiety

due to the fun games and communicative activities offered in the programs (Lai, 2006). It

reduces stress as education can take place in the process of distance learning and online classes

wherein students and teachers interact in a forum or online discussion. This method eliminates

the stress and fear of speaking in front of an audience that may intimidate and judge an ESL

student. Shy and inhibited learners can greatly benefit from this. It can repeat lessons as often as

necessary until the students understand the lesson. Moreover, these methods are far more

convenient, especially when students need to attend to important events and situations. They can

still learn through the modules and activities prescribed by the teacher.

There are a lot of reasons why we should apply technologies in our ESL learning

programs and methods. For one, it provides practices for students through experiential learning

and enhances student’s achievement. Technology increases authentic materials for study. It also

1


encourages and fosters greater interaction between teachers and students and students and peers.

Technology emphasizes the needs of each student and provides appropriate and adequate

learning. It also allows multicultural and multiracial interaction and acquisition of global

understanding (Lai, 2006).

The different communicative and interactive activities associated with ESL learning

through the use of computer technology can largely help ESL learners strengthen and improve

their language and linguistics skills. It also affects their attitude and helps students build self-

instruction strategies that uplift their self-confidence. Moreover, with the high development in

computer technology, it can capture, analyze, and present data on second language students’

performances during the learning process. Observing and checking the students’ learning

progress are very important tasks in order for the students achieve their second language

acquisition. When teachers attempt to assess the students’ learning progress, this will be helpful

in giving out tailored feedback appropriate for the student’s learning needs (Lai, 2006).

Students can easily study as a lot of reading and reference materials are available through

the internet. These materials can be accessed at any time of the day which is more convenient to

students who are working and can only study at night. Thus, computer technology in ESL

learning can provide interdisciplinary and multicultural learning opportunities for students to

carry out their independent studies (Lai, 2006).

Learning Foreign Languages of English Speaking Students

With the world as a one global community, learning different languages can be beneficial

to a person in meeting the challenges and demands by the global society. English is considered as

an international language and has become the global lingua franca over the past several decades.

However, according to the CIA World Fact Book, only 5.6 percent of the world’s population

1


speaks English as their primary language and it doubles when we add people who speak English

as their second or third language. Thus, many people still do not speak English. Learning a

foreign language will open new opportunities and give a person new perspectives about the

world that he or she is currently living in (Vistawide.com, 2010).

In addition, learning a foreign language allows a person to experience and think from

another culture. Learning the language of another country eliminates one of the communication

barriers that may hinder full and better understanding. Language is also a tool in accessing

services, solving disputes, and understanding another culture. Intercultural understanding

commences with the person’s ability to speak and understand the language of a certain culture

and acquire cultural sensitivity. In order for the global community to survive, the world needs

communicators with the facility and fluency in other languages in order to contribute to the

international diplomacy, promote international peace and security, ensure international trade, and

most importantly, bridge the gap between countries and cultures (Vistawide.com, 2010).

Emigration is one of the popular human trends nowadays wherein some people seek

better opportunities in foreign countries. With this pursuit, it is of vital importance to learn the

local language of the country of one’s destination in order to be able to communicate and adapt

well in the local community. Even if the community that one will move into speaks the language

he or she is familiar with as their second language, it is still essential to learn their local language

to better interact with the people in the local community (Ager, 2010).

Intercultural and interracial marriage is popular today due to the technological

advancements that allow two ethnically different people to interact and communicate with each

other. If a person’s partner, in-laws, and relatives speak a different language, it is a must for him

or her to learn their language to achieve better communication and understanding of their culture

1


and the way they act towards things and situations. This will prevent conflict and

miscommunication (Ager, 2010).

The modern global community demands working with people from across the globe.

Hence, there are a lot of work opportunities that involve communicating with people from

different countries and cultures. If one’s work involves making contact with people speaking a

different language, knowing and being able to talk with their language is an advantage for him or

her and for the company as he or she can effectively communicate with other people. This seems

beneficial to people working in sales and marketing that need to secure deals and contracts in

order to gain profit. Knowledge and facility over a foreign language increases one’s chances of

finding a high-paying job, getting a promotion for international workplace setting, and traveling

for business trips in other countries to deal with clients (Ager, 2010).

Many businesspersons neglect the importance of learning foreign languages. They believe

that English is used by many people in the business ands economic arena. If the other parties

cannot speak English, an interpreter can be hired to translate the conversations. However, when

dealing with crucial and critical business transactions, this puts English speakers at a great

disadvantage. The other parties can talk among themselves, leaving out the English speaker, and

using an interpreter can slows down the transaction. Moreover, in social functions, participants

prefer to speak in their native language for comfort (Ager, 2010).

A person who loves to travel in different countries should be equipped with the

knowledge on the language of their destination. There are many countries whose citizens do not

speak English. Thus, if one will stick to the popular hotels where they employ English-speaking

locals, he or she will be able to survive in that country by merely knowing the English language.

However, if one wants to venture beyond the metro and travel in remote places where he or she

1


can freely experience the local culture, knowing the local language is far more necessary (Ager,

2010).

Knowing and speaking a foreign language that only a few people can understand can be a

tool for secret communication. You and other people who can speak a different language can talk

freely in public important matters and concerns without the fear of being eavesdropped on.

People who can speak a different language served as radio operators or Code Talkers during the

First and Second World War in order to keep the communication secret and minimize the

tendency of information leakage about the plans and strategies of the government (Ager, 2010).

Many students are considering studying in foreign countries in order to acquire better

education and opportunities. Studying at a foreign school or university, they will need a good

knowledge on the local language to better understand the lessons and interact with their

classmates and peers. Lastly, learning a foreign language can be a simple task of challenging

themselves for further learning. It is a start of learning a whole new culture that embodies the

language (Ager, 2010).

Learning a foreign language can be a difficult task as it requires time and dedication. A

person must be fully committed to the studying of another language. However, the benefits

outweigh the costs of learning a foreign language.

Application of Technology in Foreign Language Learning

Foreign language teachers are in a continuous search for better ways of acquiring

authentic materials and providing experiences that aim to improve the students’ knowledge and

skills in the areas of language, communication, and culture, which serve as the national standards

of foreign language learning. Thus, as the Internet transformed the mode of communication

around the world, it now plays a major role in the foreign language classroom. The Internet has

1


enabled the worldwide connections between people and changed the way they view

communication, information, and business transactions. Hence, the wide range of feature and

media supported by Internet applications adds to the foreign language learning experience

(LeLoup & Ponterio, 2000).

Some of the important and beneficial Internet applications used to enrich the foreign

language classroom are email, electronic lists, electronic journals, web browser, audio and video

streaming, search engines, remote access to libraries and databases, instant messaging, and audio

and video conferencing and web course management. Electronic mail or e-mail has been the

most commonly used Internet application. It can be used to enrich the foreign language

classrooms by integrating email-based activities into the curriculum. It can allow students to

correspond with native speakers of the target language. The requirements for this project are

minimal, making it the most available Internet tool. This can be applied in distance learning.

Emails can handle text in a wide variety of languages and can include word processed file as

attachments. Emails also allow sending of sound and images as attachments that enhance the

context of the written communication (LeLoup & Ponterio, 2000).

The Internet also offers electronic discussion groups or lists that is often referred to as

LISTSERVs. This internet application utilizes email to provide a forum or online discussion

board for people with the same interests that can participate in a professional dialog and share

resources. This can be applied to foreign language learning by conducting an educational forum.

However, when participating in online discussions, certain rules and behavior must be observed.

The guidelines and netiquette are very important skills in the communication environment


Electronic journals are also beneficial to the foreign language learning. Some electronic

1


journals do not have printed version, and some of these journals are focused on a particular topic

of interest. Thus, electronic journals can reach a wide and diverse audience in a timely manner

and without the printing cost. The hypermedia and the web-based nature of the journals enable

articles to post links of references that may be related and relevant to the topic being discussed


The web browser is the most important tool in viewing the interconnected networks of the

internet. The web is the broadest and most powerful internet application pulling all other sites

under its umbrella. The defining elements of the web are its hypertxt link and its multimedia

nature. The hypertext link feature of the web allows one page to link any other webpage, making

it easier to navigate in a related webpage. The multimedia nature of the web and the use of the

webpage as an interface to other services have greatly expanded the power of the Internet. Both

of these features are essential for the delivery of the authentic materials including different types

of media which is vital in foreign language learning (LeLoup & Ponterio, 2000).

One effective way of connecting students to native speakers of the foreign language being

taught is using the technologies of audio and video streaming through the internet. Students can

listen to local radio broadcast or hear pre-recorded broadcasts of news and information that are

using the foreign language. This will allow the students to actually hear the diction and

pronunciation of words in the foreign language they are learning (LeLoup & Ponterio, 2000).

The web is a huge place of many and different websites, and a good tool is essential in finding

authentic materials that correspond to the topics of the foreign language curriculum. A search

engine (e.g. Yahoo, Google, Metacrawler) is a beneficial tool in finding specific sites that

showcase the information and materials that proved to be important in foreign language learning.

The search engines use keyword search of all the documents, files, and webpage that contain the

1


keywords entered by the user (LeLoup & Ponterio, 2000).

A lot of libraries, bibliographic resources, and other types of databases are available on

the Internet. Online libraries and databases house a number of different literature and resources

(LeLoup & Ponterio, 2000). This proved be beneficial to students as they can access the libraries

at anytime of the day. There are students who attend online classes and have work or jobs during

the day and attend to their classes at night. Having an access to online libraries and other

educational databases serves convenience to both teachers and students. The Internet offers a lot

in terms of information dissemination and presentation. Its other feature is instant

communication with other person/s from anywhere in the world. Real-time communication takes

place through several types of instant messaging system and video conferencing. Audio and

video conferencing is an effective way of engaging foreign language students in voice

conversation that can practice the facility and fluency of a student over the foreign language. The

instant messaging system, on the other hand, provides an instant connection to the people in the

user’s list of contacts by letting the other people to know that the user is online. Instant

messaging system sends out instant and conversational messages (LeLoup & Ponterio, 2000).

One of the popular trend in distance learning and home education is through web course

management wherein courses and everything related to the subject is posted and accessible to

both students and teachers. This is convenient to students who cannot go to their classes.

Web course management software is designed for creating and managing online courses

but can also be used to support and extend a traditional class by making materials with

teacher annotation, glossaries, syllabus, and assignments available to the students through

the Web. The collaboration tools built into this software for communicating with and

among students have been exploited by language teachers for interactive homework by

1


having students exchange messages in the target language in a real-time chat session or

on a closed bulletin board (open only to the students in the class) (LeLoup & Ponterio,

2000, n.p.)

Hence, it is essential that we integrate the aforementioned tools and applications in

foreign language learning in a pedagogically sound and meaningful way. The target language and

cultures are easily accessible through current and emerging technologies.

Other Benefits of Computer Assisted Language Learning

One of issues in the language learning classroom is the disparity in cognitive and

improvement levels of the students. There is the confronting reality of mixed-ability in general

education classroom. This diversity in today’s general education classroom continues to grow.

Implemented policies like No Child Left Behind (NCLB) hold the schools accountable in

ensuring that every student has access to standard curriculum. Thus, teachers and educators look

for ways to provide the adequate educational needs of every student. One answer to this dilemma

is the inception of technology in the classroom setting. Technology addresses the problems in the

differences among students. Many technological resources can be used to facilitate a tailored

instruction that responds to the individual needs of the students (Wahl & Duffield, 2005).

There are many software packages available that increase the learning of the students. For

example, the latest Macintosh operating system consists of speech and other low-cost utilities

that read aloud highlighted texts. This text-to-speech program can assist a variety of students as it

can be used by the whole class, in groups, or individually. Talking text is an important tool in

supporting comprehension of students. Some researches proved that it helped students with

difficulties in comprehending written materials. The wide array of books and texts that are

helpful to teachers’ instruction are widely found on the Internet. Searching in online libraries and

2


databases allows one to access a range of materials in various formats. Moreover, teachers who

are Internet-savvy can further manipulate and enhance the materials that they find online in order

to develop a more motivating activity for English learners (Wahl & Duffield, 2005).

The software programs, online tools, and other types of technologies help the students in

honing their basic language skills that can be later applied to authentic social settings. One

advantage of the technology over traditional way of teaching is that it attracts children’s attention

and engages them into fun and educational activities (Smart, 2008). Comprehensive studies

about the use of technologies in teaching have not been popularly made. Nevertheless, educators

strongly recommend the use of technology in classroom setting for they believe that it

accelerates acquisition of phonics, vocabulary, fluency and reading comprehension skills and

other skills in learning the language (Smart, 2008).

The use of technology in language learning is beneficial in web-based interactions. Social

communication provides opportunities for expression and meaningful discourse than face-to-face

discussions. There is also a greater linguistic production overall and more student engagement

(Smart, 2008). English learners can focus on language learning programs to improve their

facility and fluency over the language and to apply it in real-life situations. Basic Internet, word

processing, and presentation technologies can facilitate authentic connections to the world.

Disadvantages of Technological Inception for English Learners

Despite the numerous advantages discussed above regarding the application of current

computer technology in the school setting, especially on the English Learners, it still has its

limitations and disadvantages. The main concern and disadvantage in the inception of computer

technology is the cost. It will increase the educational costs and harm the equity of education.

When computers become the basic school requirement that a student should purchase, low

2


budget schools and low-income students usually suffer as they cannot afford a computer. Thus, it

will cause unfair and unequal educational conditions for the poor schools and students.

Moreover, expensive hardware and software programs are shouldered by schools and parents,

adding to the burden that they are currently experiencing (Lai, 2006).

There is the main issue and concern about the disparity in distribution of resources and

technology across different populations. The inequalities in the funding of technological systems

in schools indicate the unequal computer-per-student ratios between schools with predominantly

white populations and schools with predominantly black and/or populations. Moreover, black

and Latino families live at or below the poverty level as compared to white families (Yau, 1999).

Technology access is defined as the frequency of use of a school technology (e.g., computer).

This term has many aspects including computer-learning assigned tasks. There is a disparity

between the mainstream population and traditionally-disadvantaged groups when it comes to

access to computer applications and activities that involve stimulations and applications (Yau,

1999).

Numerous studies expressed the positive correlation between having access to computers

and Internet at home with the student’s achievement (Yau, 1999). If technology will become an

important aspect in education, some disadvantaged students will be left behind as they have less

access or no access at all to computers and Internet outside the school setting. We must admit

that not all students and families can afford a set computer and Internet connection that will

supplement their educational needs.

There are also criticisms in the funding on educational technology wherein inadequate

budget is being spent on the program. According to a White House Advisory Panel, the amount

of funds spent on researching educational techniques is not more than “one-tenth of one percent

2


of the total spending on education” (Yau, 1999, n.p.). Thus, if there is no adequate budget for the

program, it can be unsuccessful in terms of many aspects and it will be just a waste of time and

money.

It is necessary that both teachers and learners should have basic knowledge and training

on computer technology before the introducing such technology in the school setting. Basic

knowledge is essential to both learners and teachers in order to use the computer properly and

avoid damages to such technology (Lai, 2006). The computer software programs and

applications of computer-assisted language learning programs are still imperfect. Current

computer technology mainly deals with reading, writing, and listening skills. Speaking programs

were developed recently; however, their functions are still limited. An effective program should

be able to understand the user’s spoken input and analyze it based on its correctness. It should be

able to diagnose the problems of the students in different areas like pronunciation, syntax and

usage (Lai, 2006).

Computers cannot handle unexpected situations. English learning is posed to different

learning situations and is subjected to constant change. Due to the limitations of the computer's

artificial intelligence, computer technology is unable to deal with the learners’ unexpected

learning problems and create response to the learners’ questions immediately as teachers do.

Today’s computer technology and the learning programs and applications are not yet intelligent

enough to be truly interactive and be beneficial to students (Lai, 2006). People still need to put so

much effort in developing and improving computer technology in order to assist the English

learners and such learning programs. Moreover, more well-funded research should be made

regarding the effective use of educational technology in language learning before adopting such

programs. There must be a concrete basis on whether the educational technology will largely

2


benefit the students and teachers.

Conclusion

The modern society fosters the emergence and innovation of new and beneficial

technologies, thereby creating a global community that demands a more unified and closely-knit

society. With English being the global lingua franca, many people are studying English and

learning the international language. Moreover, the current trends of emigration and fast, distant

communication as well as advantages in today's global community, learning foreign languages

seemed to be essential due to a lot of reasons. Language is one of the areas of a culture that is of

vital importance in cultural understanding as well as in communication. Language is the main

tool used by people in resolving conflict and disputes as well as in maintaining good relations

and trade. Hence, language learning is such a popular trend in education systems nowadays that

even the Federal Government offers study programs for ESL learners.

Due to the popularity of language learning and the insistent demand of the global society

for good communicators and persons with facility in many languages, teachers and educators are

looking for various ways and teaching strategies to further improve the education system and

learning of students. Policies like No Child Left Behind (NCLB) ensure that every student

should get the standard educational requirement and benefits. With the rapid advancements in the

field of technology, various tools and technologies emerge to render convenience to the public in

their daily tasks. Because of the sudden popularity of the computer, Internet and other modern

technologies, these technologies became gradually integrated into the educational system.

Technologies offer various benefits to the educational system and classroom setting.

Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) is one of the programs that utilize the

technologies in order to improve the language learning of English learners. The application of

2


modern technology development in language learning programs has improved the learning

instructions and provided adequate computer training to the students. However, despite the

advantages posed by the technology, it still has its limitations and disadvantages that hinder

holistic improvement of a student's performance.

2


References

Ager, S. (2010). Why should I learn a language?. Retrieved January 13, 2010, from

http://www.omniglot.com/language/why.htm.

August, D. & Shanahan, T. (2006). Developing Literacy in Second-Language Learners: Report

of the National Literacy Panel on Language-Minority Children and Youth. Mahwah, New

Jersey: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Publishers.

Brown, D. (n.d.). Children and Primary Language Acquisition. University of Michigan.

Retrieved from http://sitemaker.umich.edu/356.brown/how_children_learn_language.

California Department of Education. (n.d.). English Learners. Retrieved from

http://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/el/.

Clark, B.A. (2009, October 26). First- and Second-Language Acquisition in Early Childhood.

Clearinghouse on Early Education and Parenting. Retrieved from

http://ceep.crc.uiuc.edu/pubs/katzsym/clark-b.html.

Editorial Projects in Education. (2004, September 21). English-Language Learners. EPE

Research Center. Retrieved from http://www.edweek.org/rc/issues/english-language-

learners/.

Flynn, K. & Hill, J. (2005, December). English Language Learners: A Growing Population. Mid-

Continent Research for Education and Learning. Retrieved from

http://www.mcrel.org/pdf/policybriefs/5052pi_pbenglishlanguagelearners.pdf.

Lai, C. (2006). The advantages and disadvantages of computer technology in second language

acquisition. National Journal for Publishing and Mentoring Doctoral Student Research,

3, 1-6.

LeLoup, J. W., & Ponterio, R. (2000, May). Enhancing authentic language learning experiences

2


through Internet technology. Center for Applied Linguistics. Retrieved from

http://www.cal.org/resources/digest/0002enhancing.html.

Linquanti, R. (1999). Fostering Academic Success for English Language Learners: What Do We

Know?. WestEd. Retrieved from http://www.wested.org/policy/pubs/fostering/know.htm.

Literacy Development for ELL Students. (n.d.). Bank Street. Retrieved from

http://www.bankstreet.edu/literacyguide/elllit.html.

Oak, M. (2008, August 16). Importance of technology in schools. Retrieved from

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/importance-of-technology-in-schools.html.

Office of English Language Acquisition. (2009, December 23). U.S. Department of Education.

Retrieved from http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/oela/index.html.

Smart, M. P. (2008, December 10). The word and the world: Technology aids English-language

Learners. Retrieved from http://www.edutopia.org/technology-software-english-

language-learners#.

Starr, L. (2001). ESL for adult students. Education World. Retrieved from

http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech074.shtml.

Svedkauskaite, A., Reza-Hernandez, L. & Clifford, M. (2003, June 24). Critical Issue: Using

Technology to Support Limited-English-Proficient (LEP) Students' Learning Experiences.

Retrieved from http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/issues/methods/technlgy/te900.htm.

U.S. Department of Transportation. (n.d.). Limited English proficiency. Retrieved from

http://www.dotcr.ost.dot.gov/asp/lep.asp.

Vistawide.com. (2010). Why learn languages?. Retrieved from

http://www.vistawide.com/languages/why_languages.htm.

Wahl, L. & Duffield, J. (2005). Using flexible technology to meet the needs of diverse learners:

2


what teachers can do. WestEd. Retrieved from http://www.wested.org/online_pubs/kn-05-

01.pdf.

Yau, R. (1999). Technology in K-12 Public Schools: What Are the Equity Issues?. EquityReview.

Retrieved from http://www.maec.org/techrev.html.

2

Documents

Application of Technologies to Assist and Help English ... · Web viewLanguage acquisition is a vital part in the holistic development of a child which encompasses the physical,