Information and Communication Technologies

Is the use of technology in ELT new?

If the concept of Technology is limited to tools referred with computers and electronic
devices, then it is not. Computer Assisted Language Learning appeared in early 80s
and Web-Enhanced Language Learning did it in early 90s.
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What is CALL, WELL and TELL?

CALL: Computer Assisted Language Learning. Learners had to respond to stimuli

on the computer screen and to carry out tasks, like text reconstruction, and then
they received a feedback from the computer.
WELL: Web-Enhanced Language Learning. Computer programs embraced the use
of Internet and web-based tools.
TELL: Technology-Enhanced Language Learning
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Which are the reasons why technology should be used in the English
language classroom?

Among many reasons, there are some of them which are worth of being
enumerated:

Nowadays people are increasingly using technologic devices in their daily

lives and educators should do the same in their classes.
Younger learners are growing up with technology. It represents a natural
part of their lives.
Internet allows collaboration and communication between learners who are
geographically dispersed.
Technology is becoming increasingly mobile. It can be used not only in the
classroom, lecture hall, computer room or self-access centers, it can also
be used at home, on the way to school and in Internet cafs
Using a range of ICTs tools, learners can practice the four main language
skills: speaking, listening, writing and reading.

a digital native? Is someone who grows with technology and feels

comfortable and confident using technology
a digital immigrant? Is somenone who has come late to the word of
technology
a technophobe? Is that who might be wary of these new technologies
a technogeek? Is a technology enthusiast
the digital divide? Is referred to the access that teachers have to
computers

What is:

What are the reasons English language educators may refuse to apply ITCs
in their teaching practices?
Within other reasons:
lack of confidence
lack of facilities
lack of training

How can the negative perspectives of English educators towards ICTs be

reverted?

-Educators can timetable in advance the use of computers.

-It is possible to make pupils work in groups and many activities can be done with
one computer.
-It is not true that teachers do not know anything about using computers. They
know how to do certain things like email, use a word processing program and
Internet. This knowledge is enough to get started with using technology in the
classroom.
-Having pupils that know more than the teacher about technology is not a bad
thing. They can share their knowledge and help with the development of certain
topics.
- The use of technology in the classroom functions as a complement of regular
classroom work. It does not replace using traditional materials.
- Teachers must be aware that they have certain technical skills. Good training in
the use of technology in the classroom through face- to- face workshops or online
courses is key to encouraging the long term acceptance of technology.

Which are the basic requirements to start using ICTs for ELT?

To know:
how to use a word processing program
How to use email
How to access and use the Internet
Equipment:
At least one computer
An Internet connection
A printer
An audio card in the computer, and a headset for every computer
Basic software: word processing program, a web browser, and an email
program