I definitely feel like technology can be a great supplement to language learning. By using games like Second Life and social networking sites like Facebook, students can practice the language in the same settings as they use their native language. People who enjoy playing video games will greatly benefit from using their second language in a way that interests them. Not everyone likes the classroom setting, but most people are comfortable talking via social networking sites like Facebook or Twitter.
The main reason I think technology is helpful is because when it is used as a supplement to classroom learning, it extends the daily language learning from only an hour or two into whenever the student wants to practice. People all around the world can reach native speakers of whatever L2 they are studying in just a couple seconds. Technology allows the learner to take more of their learning into their own hands, giving them access to everything they need to be a better L2 speaker.
Nothing can replace the hands-on approach of classroom learning, because any kind of physical group learning activity cannot occur via the internet, like practicing imperative phrases with the total physical response method. But when used in conjuction with each other, language learning can become not only more interesting, but also more effective.
I agree that social networking cites extend the language learning process because it really does give students an extra hour or two to use the target language. From personal experience I know more vocabulary from putting my cell phone, facebook, and iPod in Spanish.
ReplyDeleteI think that technology is effective when it is used in conjunction with classroom learning. Like you stated, nothing can replace the hands-on approach of a classroom, but it is also hard to find that useful immediate feedback that is given by the instructor outside of the classroom.
ReplyDeleteI agree that technology is useful for language learning by extending the use of the L2 outside of the classroom. I do however how useful certain sites such as Facebook or Twitter can be since they have a habit of being a procrastinator's paradise. I think when social media is used correctly and in juncture with the class it is very beneficial.
ReplyDelete