ABSTRACT

Nowadays, computer technologies have a great impact when we teach English.

This project proves that students think using computer technology improve their
skills. It means, listening, reading, writing and speaking and motivates to learn the
language better than a traditional class. Using questionnaires and interviews, this
research shows interesting results that help to understand what students think
about the uses of computer technology in class.

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 COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY IMPROVE AND MOTIVATE STUDENTS
TO LEARN ENGLISH

The best metaphor for the computer technology is the jungle; the jungle provides
an endless source of sustenance and delight to those who know their way in it. To those
who do not, it is a dark and impenetrable maze, full of changes and unpredictable
menace. In like manner, the computer technology offers infinite resources for the people
that like to practice their English. For those unfamiliar with it, however, it can be a
treating presence, characterized by total lack of structure, full of potential predators.

The second believe is technology will not turn bad teachers into good teachers. It
will not be a magic potion that will turn uninterested or unwilling students into eager
and rapid learners of languages. But technology will make available to skilled teachers
and keen learners a range of tools and resources to augment the traditional classroom
learning environment.

1.1.Reason for Choosing this topic:

The principal reason and the most important at the same time is that it is
essential to integrate effective use of computer technology into typical practice in
language teaching, not just to enhance or extend existing practice, but to change
practice. Clearly, change is only acceptable when it can be demonstrated to make
learning more effective. Computer technology is transforming the way we live and to
suggest that teaching can stand apart is to ignore the potential of existing and emerging
technology.

1.2. Importance of the topic:

Development of computer technologies includes also the use of the Internet

and its popular interface, the World Wide Web is part of an emerging and
evolving global information industry. Users access the Web through a navigator
or browser that is rapidly redefining the form of a graphic user interface to
online information. This in turn, is impacting on ‘traditional’ media such as
broadcast television, newspapers, books and magazines. In 1996, commercial

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 interest in the Internet increased significantly. Where this will lead to is as yet
unknown, but existing trends indicate opportunities for education to use the
functional capacity of what emerges. One of the trends is computer platform
software independence which would allow software to be used via the Internet
on any computer, regardless of the type. Another outcome of growth in Internet
use is that networked educational services can now be accessed from locations
outside of educational institutions.

Technology has come of age as a language teaching resource which can

potentially provide bridges to the target language and culture. We risk
technology becoming just another ‘discarded enthusiasm’ (Leal Report 1991)
unless language educators and policy makers address the following challenges:

• Use of technology in harmony with current and best language and

language learning theory;
• Availability of appropriate technology at the delivery and language
learning sites;
• Student and teacher training in using technologies that enhance
language teaching and learning.

1.3. Research problem:

The problems that we consider to explain is: Do Students think
computer technology improve their skills (Listening, writing, speaking and
reading) and motivate for learning English better than a traditional class
(without technology)?

II. Literature Review

2.1. Technology
“A new technology does not add or subtract something. It changes
everything.
... What we need to consider about the computer has nothing to do

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 with it is efficiency as a teaching tool. We need to know in what ways it
is altering our conception of learning, and how, in conjunction with
television, it undermines the old idea of school” (Postman 1992, pp. 18–
19)

Over the past several decades, technology has become a fixture in

many homes around the world, and its influence has permeated into all
facets of our lives, including educational settings. This phenomenon has
been called by many as the wave of the future in which language
instruction will be driven by new advances in computers, the Internet,
and mobile technologies. However, how we go about integrating
technology into our classrooms can have a huge impact on whether a
technologically-driven classroom succeeds or fails, even with low-tech
solutions.

• Definition of technology:
The National Board of Employment, Education and Training
(Australia, 1996) said “the term ‘technology’ has acquired chameleon-
like properties in society. A brief definition will not suffice to cover the
complexity and inter-relatedness of all that this term currently
encompasses. It is more appropriate to consider the attributes of
technology which include:
Technology includes:

o Objects: artifacts or apparatus (hardware) devised by,

manufactured by, and employed in the service of people.

o Processes: technical activities that include the development and

use of skills, procedures, routines, and techniques designed by
people to achieve a planned outcome. Included in these processes
is the software needed to support hardware. Technological
processes are generally distinguished from other forms of human

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 activity by their planned, programmed, sequential, outcome
oriented form.

o Systems: organizational structures that result from and/or rely on

objects and processes. These include bureaucracies; multinational
companies; quality circles; computer conferences; production
lines; organizations that produce, market and maintain services
and products and networks.

o Knowledge: once closely linked to manufacturing, technology is

now better identified by the capacity to develop and use
knowledge needed to create new artifacts, processes and systems
and to market that knowledge internationally. This is knowledge
drawn from accumulated experience. Use of technology does not
necessarily require technological knowledge, but its development
does. Technological sophistication resides more with the ‘know
how’ than with manufacturing.”

On the other hand UNESCO (1985) defines technology as "...the

know-how and creative processes that may assist people to utilize tools,
resources and systems to solve problems and to enhance control over the
natural and made environment in an Endeavour to improve the human
condition."

In summary we can say that technology involves the purposeful

application of knowledge, experience and resources to create processes
and products that meet human needs. The needs and wants of people in
particular communities determine the technology that is developed and
how it is applied. People judge the popularity of technological
applications by their impact on health, personal well- being and lifestyle,
education, economies and ecosystems.

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• Role of technology in education:

Paul Steninger (2002) said: “Technology is playing an

increasing role in education. As technology advances, it is used to
benefit students of all ages in the learning process”. We can say that
technology advances benefits students in many different ways.
Nowadays, in the case of teaching languages, technology has become a
very important tool for the teacher that can help students to make easy to
understand the language better. Technology has also become part of
many curriculums, even outside of computer and technology classes.
Students use computers to create presentations and use the Internet to
research topics for papers and essays.

On the other hand, Randall Davis (2006), teacher of English

Language Institute, University of Utah, said: “as for teachers, we need
to think beyond the box and determine, step-by-step, what technology
can do for us to support---not supplant---our teaching goals.
Fortunately, educators can be very chameleonic with the right tools and
training, and can adapt their teaching styles to new situations.” Another
thing that we have to consider is the uses of technology, as a tool, not
supplant a teacher in the class. Sometimes, students think technologies
can supplant teachers, so as teachers we have to be carful using
technologies in class

• Advantages of using technology:

Li Wang (2005) said “technology has dramatically changed the way

people gather information, conduct research and communicate with
others worldwide”. Also, she considers the intercultural exchange
because of the use of technology when students learn English.

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 On the other hand, Richard Kern (2006) said that the advantages of
using technologies are:

• Extend access to educational resources

• Deepen understanding by making abstract concepts visible
• Assist learners in organizing and analyzing information
• Amplify students' means of expression
• Promote collaborative learning
• Enable students to develop polished products through cycles of
revision.

In summary, we can say that the main advantage of using technology is

creating a great way to communicate with people in different cultures. For
instance, the Internet offers a worldwide learning environment that makes
distance communication fast and affordable. By using the Internet, cross-
cultural cooperative groups can be developed., So while last ten years,
teachers thought foreign language students to write essays and read
magazines. Now, we must teach them to write e-mail and conduct online
research. Thus, integrating technology into language classrooms is
inevitable.

Technology as a tool for teacher:

According to Lynne Schrum (2005), “technology is a tool that

can change the nature of learning. Technology provides educators with
the opportunity to move from simply streamlining the way things have
always been done to really imagining things they would like to do.”

According to these ideas, be aware that technology is just a tool, and

designing creative instruction is the key to successfully integrating
technology into classrooms. To do this, teachers must first know what the
technology can do for language learning:

o Word processing: is a great way for students to engage in

writing, prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, saving, printing,

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 o Publishing students’ work: Computer technologies make
students’ work easy to publish in multiple ways, such as in
newsletters, flyers, Web pages, CD-ROMs, etc.
o Communication through the Internet: While language is for
communication, the Internet has broken down communication’s
distance barrier. Therefore, students can build up partnerships
with learning peers in target languages through the Internet.

2.2. Computer Technology:

• Why use computer technology in learning English?
According to Doug Bruce and Angela Bird (2006), there are two
reasons for using computer technology in English.
First there are the benefits to teachers and students from including
computer technology in any learning area:

For students, technology can:

• be very motivacional
• be the source of a significant amount of reading material
• Be fun - and when it's fun you learn!
• help students to produce excellent published work

For teachers, technology can:

• Allow for the easy production, storage and retrieval of prepared

materials such as certificates and work required sheets.
• free up communication with other teachers
• help teachers to find information easily
• Assist good teaching but not replace it.

Secondly, there are the challenges and opportunities presented by

computer technology that make it an increasingly important part of
English in particular. These include:

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 • The emergence of new kinds of texts and the consequent need to
teach students to create and use these texts effectively;
• Changing social practices associated with communicating via
computers and the consequent need to teach students how to make
judgments about appropriate use of different avenues of
communication;
• The pervasiveness and power of texts created through computer
technology and the consequent need to teach students to be critical
readers and viewers of such texts.

In summary, we can say that the advantage of using computer

technology is for both, the teachers and the students. However, we
have to consider that in the case that teacher or students don’t use
computer technology in a good way, this can cause a great problem
since of students computer technology can be a distracter because
sometimes students can focus in another things for example when they
use internet, they can focus in chat, playing games, etc. In the case of
teacher, computer technology can be a problem if they don’t know how
to manage.

2.3. Internet:

• What is internet?

According to Gordon Lewis (2006) is a worldwide system of

computer networks - a network of networks in which users at any one
computer can, if they have permission, get information from any other
computer (and sometimes talk directly to users at other computers).

The www is as diverse as human experience and with its

graphical interface and ability to integrate text, sound, video, and pictures
in a communicating environment.

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 Also, Elvis Wagner, Teachers College, Columbia University,
said: “…the Internet is a great Challenger to teachers; however, we do
not have to confuse as a replacement for classroom teaching. Only when
the internet is combined with activities according to the class does it
reach it is enriching potential”.

• Internet, Instructional tool or motivator?

According to Kerry Lynn Rice (2008), “the internet as an

instructional too, is a vast resource that has the capacity to improve
teaching and learning in a multitude of ways. Think of this site as a
portal to activities and resources that can enhance your own teaching
and learning through the use of this remarkable tool. ”.
On the other hand, Johnny Lee said that internet as a motivator is
most popular among students as they are often associated with fun and
games. Student motivation is therefore increased, especially whenever a
variety of activities are offered. This in turn makes students feel more
independent.
We can say, the internet can be used a as tool and motivator too,
for the reason that internet in one way helps teacher to give extra
information and exercises that can be used in the classroom. And in the
other hand, it can be used as a “Motivator” because nowadays, students
feel more motivated due to the dynamical activities enriched by graphics
and animations — to help students solve real-life problems that offer
internet.

2.3. Motivation:
A large body of research during the last decade is oriented
towards measuring student motivation in the digital era. Motivation in
itself is not clearly defined; there is no agreed notion of what comprises
motivation as well. However, in this graphic we can see different kinds
of motivation that help us to understand better what motivation is.

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 Source: Ryan, Richard and Deci Edward,” Intrinsic and
extrinsic motivations: Classic Definitions and New
Direction” 2000. University of Rochester
On the other hand, Larry c. Bernard and Michael Mills (2006) said: “motivation
is defined as purposeful behavior that is ultimately directed toward the fundamental
goal of inclusive fitness”

In summary, we can say that motivation is the set of reasons that determines one
to engage in a particular behavior. In the case of learning we can say that motivation is
ways to stimulate a student to focus and pay more attention in the class using different
activities or tools. We can say that motivation is motion towards goal”.

III. Hypothesis:

• The first hypothesis that we want to prove is Students think computer

technology improve their uses of skills better.
• And the last hypothesis is that students think computer technology motivates
to learn the language better than WHEN doing some activities without
using computer technology.

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IV. Design:

4.1. Theory:
The purpose of the project was to prove that students can improve
and be motivated using computer technologies better than a traditional class
(without computer technology). Computer technologies are tools that teacher can
use to do the class more interesting. This study aims to record the interviews
about what students think in relation to computer technologies and also mental
representations about how students consider the uses of this tool.

4.2. Sample:

4.2.1. Participants:
The participants of this project are divided in two groups. In the
case of the interviews, we worked with students of Advanced 2.
On the other hand, in the case of the questionnaires, we surveyed
50 students from intermediate 4 until advanced 4.

4.2.2. Reasons for which this sample was chosen:

We decided to choose students from intermediate and advanced
level for the reason that they already knew how the process of learning
English is and because the level of the questionnaires and the
interviews are for people that know the language better than basic
students.

4.3. Action Plan:

4.3.1. Questionnaire:
The questionnaire was applied at the beginning of the class in students of
Advanced 01, 04 and intermediate 06. First, teacher of the classroom
introduced me, and then I explained to the students the reason why I was
there. After, I gave the questionnaires to students and asked if anyone has
a question, and finally I came back at the end of the class to collect the
questionnaires.

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 4.3.2. Interviews:
The interviews were done in the final days of the course 25th and
27th on February because teacher divided classrooms in two
groups for the oral exams.
First, the teacher introduced me, then I explained to the students
the reason why I was there and what I was going to do. So the
plan was that after students finish the oral exam with the teacher,
one by one had to come to me in total were 15 interviews.

V. RESEARCH:
The subject of my research was advanced 2. There were nineteen students between
12 to 27 years old. The class belongs to regular program1. The time schedule was at
2:00 – 3:45 p.m. The research was implemented on February 2009.

VI. ANALYSIS AND RESULTS

6.1. Interviews:
In the interviews I had two punctual questions. The first question
is Do you think that your English improves when you use computer technology
as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab2? And the second
question Do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a
traditional class? As for example in these two interviews we can see some
answer that the majority of students said:

Third Interview (Appendix 3)

Me: Well, My first question is do you think that you improve your
English when you use computer technology as for example internet or
when you go to multimedia lab?

Student 3: Yes, because it helps me to study better the language and

because computers makes easier the things to learn English.
1
Regular Program: Monday to Friday.
2
Multimedia LAB: Is a special place in which students practice their English using Computers and
different programs that help in grammar, vocabulary, listening, reading, etc.

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 Me: ok, now my second question is do you think that computer
technology is more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 3: Of course yes, but especially is because when we use internet

for example we are more concentrate because is more dynamic, games,
and for how they present the exercises to practice. Also, when teacher
uses videos from internet, helps a lot to focus on the class.

Me: oh, that is a good answer, so that’s all, thank you very much… bye.

Seventh Interview (Appendix 03)

Me: Now, I have two questions for you, my first question is do you think
that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for
example internet or when you go to multimedia lab?

Student 7: Yes, because I can be better in listening and be a better

student for example when I go to multimedia lab I practice a lot of
exercises that I can not do it in the book.

Me: ok, my second question is do you think that computer technology is

more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 7: I think that using computer technology makes me focus on

more in the class, it is more interesting, I feel more involve in the task
that teacher give us

Me: Why more involve?

Student 7: because I am more concentrate and pay more attention and

participate more when teacher asks questions.

Me: ok, that is all, thank you very much for your participation.

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 The results of all these interviews present similar answers and the
general points that students said are:

• First question:

In this case, students said that multimedia labs and the use
of internet are more dynamics that means they like to do or
practice exercises. In multimedia lab, there are lots of exercises
presented in different contexts that they can practice as for
example: practice vocabulary about using as a context at the
restaurant or at the hospital that help students to get the
language better. Also that multimedia and internet are very useful
and organized way to learn new skills. Students said that feel
more comfortable.

One of the advantages that students said about multimedia

lab and internet are that students can correct different mistakes
when they practice exercises, so students can see what are wrong
and correct the exercises.

In addition, Students go to multimedia lab and internet

because they want to have better results in their exams. They care
about having good grades and as a consequences feeling
motivated to continue studying English.

And finally, students said that sometimes they have to be

careful using multimedia lab or internet because it can be as a
distracter for the reason that sometimes students can focus in
different things like videos, music, chat, etc.

According to these answers, we can prove that students

use multimedia lab and internet to improve their English. This

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 means that these tools help student to use and manage the
language better

• Second Question:

On the other hand, the second question was about

motivation and students said that task is easier when it is
presented using computer technology (power points, internet, etc)
and as a consequence they feel more motivated and focus better
on the task. In contrast, when teacher doesn’t use the computer or
the internet students feel boring and in some cases they spend
their time in different things like talking to their friend or playing
something for not to feel boring. Also, using computer
technologies in students, generate more participation and as a
consequence more dynamism in the class.

We can prove that students feel more motivated when

teacher uses computer technology, they participate more, they are
more active students it means that they are more autonomous and
use the language more to improve their English.

• Mental Representation:

Our memory never matches the real world perfectly, because

stored mental representations are not perfect. Mental representations have
some sensory qualities, for example: in your imagination, you can make a
walk through your house. Recent studies using brain imaging have shown
that during mental imagery most brain structures are active as if subjects
are really experiencing or acting. You use your mental representation
when you are thinking of what has happened at a specific place, and
when you look in advance. For example, when someone asks you to
show him the way, you use your mental representation to mention the
name of the streets and the distances.

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 In the interviews, I gave a paper (see on Appendix B) with five
different words (Class with technology, Motivation, Internet, class
without technology and improve) so students had to write another
words related to that ones, it means represent what means for them.
Results of all these interviews were done following the Abric’s
technique. In this technique Abric divides the chart in four different parts
in which shows how is represented the mental representation, The first
one (in the upper left) is the most important and the word that is repeated
in almost the interviews. The second word (in the upper right) has a high
frequency but it has a low importance for the student. The third word (at
the bottom left) has a low frequency but it has a high importance for the
student and finally the last word (at the bottom right) has low frequency
and low importance for the student. In this research, the chart is divided
in three parts because students wrote three words for each one (Class
with technology, Motivation, Internet, class without technology and
improve) With this approach, I organized all the answers of the students
in different charts showing interesting results about what students think
about the uses of computer technology. Using a chart that they had to do
in the interview, the conclusions are:

1. Class with Technology:

• Is more interesting

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 • Easier
• Computers.

In this chart, the results of all the interviews are that for
them they related class with technology with a class more
interesting, more dynamical in other words that helps to
focus on the class. Then the second word that is high
frequency is easier that means that for them is easier to
understand a class when teacher uses technology and
finally students relate class with technology with
computers, it means the uses of internet, power points or
another program that helps students to understand better
what teacher explains in the class.

High Importance Low Importance

High Frequency
Is more Easier
interesting

Computer Low Frequency

2. Motivation:

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• Help
• Stimulate
• Funnier

In this case students relate motivation as help for them. In this

case Help means make easier or facilitates the understanding when
they are learning, in this case the understanding of what teacher
explains in the class. Also, the second word that has high
frequency is stimulate, relating to computer technology they feel
more stimulate if teacher uses a different tool (computer
technology) that stimulate students to focus and to pay more
attention in the class. And finally the last word that is related to
motivation is funnier, this mean that if the class is motivated is
because is funnier and students like to be in an environment that is
comfortable and funny.

High Importance Low Importance

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 High Frequency
Help Stimulate

Funnier

Low Frequency

The majority of students relate internet especially with

information it means that for them, internet is a tool to search
3. Internet:
information that can help in many things and also show that
• Information
students are autonomous because they find by their own extra
• Communication information that help to improve their English. In the case of
• Entertainment learning English, internet helps students to give a variety of
information that improves their knowledge in the language. The
second word is Communication; this means that student relate
internet to a way of communication with different people
interchange different customs, cultures, etc. In the case of
learning a language, internet help students to communicate in
another language in this case English. Finally the third word
that is related to internet is Entertainment (videos, listen music
from internet, watch movies, photos, etc) so, this is because the
majority of students interviewed are teenagers so for them this
is another reason why they like to use internet.

High Importance Low Importance

Information Communication
High Frequency

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Entertainment
Low Frequency

4. Class without technology:

Students in this case relate class without technology with boring,

• Boring they think this because they feel not motivating in the class that
is the second interpretation of students and finally don’t easy to
• Not
understand that is the last word so all these words are related
motivating
because using computer technology motivates students to
• Don’t easy
participate and to focus more in the class, and help students also to
to
understand better what teacher does in the class.
understand

High Importance Low Importance

High Frequency
Boring Not
Motivating

Don’t easy to Low Frequency

understand

5. Improve:
• Better
• Self Improvement
• Achieve goals

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 In this case, students relate improve with better, this means that be better
or to progress in a good way in all the skills. Another word related to self
improvement is also self improvement, this mean to be a better student
and finally achieve goals. This means that improving skills, students can
achieve goals. These goals are basically have good grades in the
classroom.

High Importance Low Importance

High Frequency
Better Self
Improvement

Achieve
High Frequency
Goals

6.2. Questionnaires:

After handing out 50 questionnaires to students from level intermediate 04 to

advance 6 we can say:

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 • Students think that a traditional class it means doing activities in the classroom
like role plays, posters, etc are more interesting than studying with computer
technologies. As we can see (graphic Nº01), so we can prove that students can
do activities without depending in computer technologies. Nevertheless, in the
graphic Nº02, students said that computer technology motivates to get involve in
learning activities, so this mean that we can stimulate students using computer
technologies to focus on the activity that they have to do in class (role play,
design posters, etc) and not necessarily use computer technologies to do the
activity that teacher has to do in class.

Graphic Nº01

“A Traditional class (some activities or games that teacher makes in

classroom) is more interesting than studying with computer technology like
internet, games in computer, etc.”

In this case, they have to use a scale:

Strongly Disagree Slightly Disagree Slightly Agree Strongly Agree

A B C D

The results are: 25

20 Strongly
o Strongly Disagree: 06 Disagree
Slightly
Disagree
o Slightly Disagree: 10 15 Slightly
Agree
o Slightly Agree: 22 Strongly
10 Agree
o Strongly Agree: 12
5

Graphic Nº02
0

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 The use of computer technology in the classroom…

Motivates to get more involved in learning

activities:
25
The results are:
20 Strongly
Disagree
Slightly
o Strongly Disagree: 02 Disagree
15 Slightly
Agree
Strongly
o Slightly Disagree: 05 10 Agree

o Slightly Agree: 21
5

o Strongly Agree: 22
0

• On the other hand, students think the use of computer technology in the
classroom is an effective tool to improve all skills (see graphic Nº03). So this
means students can acquire new knowledge using computer technologies as part
of the process of learning English. So, we can prove that students can improve
their skills using effectively the computer technology. And as a result, the use of
computer technology as a help for students to improve skills (graphic Nº03).
However as we can see in the graphic Nº 04, students improve more in listening
skill for the reason that this skill is for them the most difficult that they have to
deal when they learn English.

Graphic Nº03

The use of computer technology in the

classroom…

40
Is an effective tool to improve all skills 35
(speaking, writing, reading, listening) Strongly
30 Disagree

25 Slightly
Disagree
The results are: 20 Slightly
Agree
15
Strongly
Agree
10
24
5

0
o Strongly Disagree: 0
o Slightly Disagree: 02
o Slightly Agree: 12
o Strongly Agree: 36

Graphic Nº04

Computer technology helps in

learning English? 30

25 Strongly
The results are: Disagree
Slightly
20 Disagree
Slightly
o Strongly Disagree: 02 15
Agree
Strongly
Agree
10
o Slightly Disagree: 02
o Slightly Agree: 17 5

0
o Strongly Agree: 29

Graphic Nº 04

What Skill do you practice more when you use computer technology?

25
 Listening ______ Reading: _______

Speaking ______ Writing: _______

The results are:

35
Listening: 33
30
Speaking: 06
25
Listening
Reading: 07 Speaking
20 Reading
Writing: 04 Writing
15

10

VII. CONCLUSION: 0

Finally, we can say that computer technology can improve and motivate
students, according to the results of the interviews and questionnaires, is possible to say
first:

• Computer technology improves students in the process of learning for the reason
that student feel they progress and acquire new knowledge when they use this
tool (when they go to multimedia lab or when they are on internet).

However, it will be interesting to do another research problem to see, what kind of

software students like to study with? And what the distracter are for them when
students use computer technology. For the reason that these questions were not too
much developed in this project.

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 BIBLIOGRAPHY

• Lewis, Gordon. 2003. The internet and Young Learners. Alan Maley
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• Language Learning Technology: http://llt.msu.edu./

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Comprehension In Multimedia Environments
http://llt.msu.edu/vol3num1/hoven/index.html

o Maja Grgurović and Volker Hegelheimer. 2008. Help Options And

Multimedia Listening: Students’ Use Of Subtitles And The
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o Ramírez Dolores Verdugo and Belmonte Isabel Antonio. 2007. Using

Digital Stories To Improve Listening Comprehension With Spanish
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http://llt.msu.edu/vol11num1/wagner/default.html

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http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/submitted/etd-09012001-
132144/unrestricted/01chapter1.pdf

• Blake, J. Robert.2003. Technology, Multimedia, And Second Language

Learning
http://www.mhhe.com/socscience/Passport/spotlight.htm

Bruce, Doug and Bird, Angela. 2006. Information and Communication

Technologies

http://wwwfp.education.tas.gov.au/english/technology.htm

Connor, Dixie. 2008. Better Students through Technology

http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech149.shtml

Dyck, Brenda. 2008. Using Technology to Bridge Understanding For Foreign-

and Second-Language Learners
http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/columnists/dyck/dyck027.shtml

• G. Jeffrey MacDonald. 2007. Computers are a drag of learning

http://www.csmonitor.com/2004/1206/p11s01-legn.html

• Kern, Richard and Warschauer, Mark. 2000. Theory and Practice of

Network-Based Language Teaching
http://www.gse.uci.edu/person/markw/nblt-intro.html

Martinea Pamela. 2008. Teaching with technology

28
http://www.csba.org/NewsAndMedia/Publications/CASchoolsMagazine/200
8/Fall/InThisIssue/TechMain.aspx

• National Board of Employment, Education and Training

http://www.dest.gov.au/NR/rdonlyres/09800E13-5FBC-4F47-BF25-
1D2D33778B5C/3972/96_31.pdf

• Poole, Bernie.2006. What Every Teacher Should Know About

Technology
http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/columnists/poole/poole015.shtml

• Randall Davis. 2006. Utopia or Chaos? The Importance of technology

on language teaching.
http://iteslj.org/Articles/Davis-ImpactOfTechnology.html

• Rice, Kerry. 2007. The Internet as an Instructional Tool

http://edtech.boisestate.edu/elearn/

• Schurm, Lynne.2005. Technology as a Tool to Support Instruction

http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech/tech004.shtml

• Steninger,
Paul.2008. The Role of Technology in Education
http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Role-of-Technology-in-Education&id=1745666

• Wang, Li. 2005. The Advantages of Using Technology in Second

Language Education
http://www.thejournal.com/articles/17296

• Web Stany. 2004. ICT In Language Teaching In 6 Points

http://www.itiscannizzaro.net/Ianni/articles/rationale.htm

29
• Webb Allen. 2007. Teaching English Using the New Technologies
http://homepages.wmich.edu/~acareywe/engl5970.html

• Ryan, Richard and Dec,i Edward,” Intrinsic and

extrinsic motivations: Classic Definitions and New
Direction” 2000. University of Rochester
http://inrhode.uri.edu Harackiewicz, Judith M

APPENDIX

30
 APPENDIX N°01

QUESTIONNAIRE

Age: _______________ Cycle: _______

Gender:
Female: _____
Male : ____

When on line learning you like to use: (1 to 6) number the following proposition from
1 to 6, 1 being what you believe to be the most important and 6 the least

Videoconferencing ____ Blog _________ e – mail

_______

Discussion lists _____ Chat _________ standard

Exercises_______

First Part

31
Using the scale provided, please put a check (√) to say how you agree or disagree with
the following statements regarding the use of computer technology in the classroom and
multimedia labs:

Strongly Disagree Slightly Disagree Slightly Agree Strongly Agree

A B C D

1. - A Traditional class (some activities or games that teacher makes in

classroom) is more interesting than studying with computer technology like
internet, games in computer, etc.

A _____ B____ C____ D____

The use of computer technology in the classroom…

2. Promotes the development of communication skills (e.g., writing and

presentation skills).

A _____ B____ C____ D____

3. Is an effective tool to improve all skills ( speaking, writing , reading,

listening)

A _____ B____ C____ D____

4. Motivates to get more involved in learning activities.

A _____ B____ C____ D____

Explain Why:

32
 …………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………….

5. Computer technology helps in learning English?

A _____ B____ C____ D____

Second part

1. - What Skill do you practice more when you use computer technology?

Listening ______ Reading: _______

Speaking ______ Writing: _______

2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using computer technology

in learning English?

Advantages Disadvantages

33
 APPENDIX N°02

MENTAL REPRESENTATIONS

Class with Class without

technology Motivation Internet technology Improve

APPENDIX N°03

INTERVIEWS

Wednesday 25th, February 2009

• First Interview:

34
Me : Hi how are you? What about your oral exam.

Student 1: It was good, but I need to practice more.

Me : ok, now, I would like to help me ok, , now I am going to give you
five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come
to your mind immediately ok that is for each word. For example, the
words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher….

Student 1: oh ok, no problem.

(Then I give the paper and she writes all the words that comes to her
mind)

Student 1: I finished, can I go to my sit?

Me: Wait a minute please, I have to two questions for you and then you
can go ok?

Student1: Ok no problem

Me: My first question is do you think that you improve your English
when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you
go to multimedia lab?

Student1: Yes, because internet or multimedia lab are more dynamics

and because is easier to do the examples

Me: ok, good, now my second question is do you think that computer
technology is more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 1: yes, I think that computer technology presents the things

easier than when a teacher presents without using anything related to
computer

35
 Me: ok, thank you and now you can go to your sit.

• Second Interview:

Me: Hi, how was your exam?

Student 2: hmm, I think that it was easy, I studied so, I did not have
problems.

Me: ok good, now I don’t know if you can help with my research…

Student 2: ok, no problem, but it’s going to be quick no?

Me: Of course not more that 5 minutes. Now I am going to give you five
words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to
your mind immediately ok that is for each word. For example, the words
“Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher….

Student 2: ok, I got it

(Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind)

Student: Ok, I finished something else?

Me: Oh yes, I have two questions for you, and then you are free….

Students: ok, but be hurry please, because I need to go.

Me: Ok, my first question is do you think that you improve your English
when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you
go to multimedia lab?

36
 Student 2: oh yes, because computer technology help me to study better
English and help me to be better in all the skills especially in listening
and reading , because using videos or reading instructions help me a lot
to focus on that skills.

Me: ok, now my second question is do you think that computer

technology is more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 2: Yes, because when a teacher doesn’t use computer

technology, the class is boring and too dynamical, and in my case, I start
to do other things and don’t pay attention to what teacher says.

Me: oh really, so what things do you do when you don’t pay attention to
the teacher?

Student 2: well, exactly, talk with my friend or play with my cell phone.

Me: oh, well, that is all, you can go, you are free now.

Student 2: bye.

• Third Interview:

Me: Hi, how was your oral exam?

Student 3: Actually, it was kind of difficult, because I didn’t study, and

because my essay was from internet and teacher noticed that.

Me: Oh really, well you have to be a little more responsible and original
when you are doing an essay. Ok. Now I don’t know if you can help with
my research…is about computer technology.

Student 3: ok no problem.

37
Me: I am going to give you a word and then you have to write in a paper
all the words that come to your mind immediately ok. For example, the
words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher….

Student 3: … as a dictator….

Me: yes that is a good example…

(Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind)

Student3: That’s all no?

Me: No, you have to answers two question and that is all….

Student 3: ok no problem

Me: Well, My first question is do you think that you improve your
English when you use computer technology as for example internet or
when you go to multimedia lab?

Student 3: Yes, because it helps me to study better the language and

because computers makes easier the things to learn English.

Me: ok, now my second question is do you think that computer

technology is more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 3: Of course yes, but especially is because when we use internet

for example we are more concentrate because is more dynamic, games,
and for how they present the exercises to practice. Also, when teacher
uses videos from internet, helps a lot to focus on the class.

Me: oh, that is a good answer, so that’s all, thank you very much… bye.

Student 3: bye, see you

38
• Fourth Interview:

Me: Hi! How was your oral exam?, It seems that was easy for you no?.

Student 4: oh yes, I feel a little nervous but then I felt secure.

Me: ok, good for you, now I don’t know if you can help with my
research…is about computer technology. It’s going to take no more than
5 minutes.

Student 4: Ok, no problem, I have a lot of time.

Me: well, I am going to give you a word and then you have to write in a
paper all the words that come to your mind immediately ok. For example,
the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to
teacher….

Student 4: ok that is easy….

(Then I give the paper and she wrote all the words that comes to her
mind)

Me: hmm I see that you finish really faster than the other students…
good. Now I have two questions for you and that is all.

Student 4: Ok, no problem

Me: Good, my first question is do you think that you improve your
English when you use computer technology as for example internet or
when you go to multimedia lab?

Student 4: That is true; because I can study better and I can show my
skills especially in vocabulary

39
 Me: And, why vocabulary?...

Student 4: because that is the best thing that I can do it, and because I
like to learn a lot of vocabulary.

Me: Ok, now my second question is do you think that computer

technology is more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 4: Yes, because I pay more attention to the class and because it’s
more interesting to use another material that we can work, you know, it is
more dynamical, how the exercises are presented. And of course when
teacher uses power points or something similar, I think that is more
organized and easier to understand.

Me: Ok, thank you very much for your helping, that’s all.

Student 4: ok, bye.

• Fifth Interview:

Me: hi! What about your oral exam? You took a lot of time with the
teacher.

Student 5: Oh yes, my topic was really interesting so I talked many

things about that.

Me: Oh, that is good, now I would to help me with my research project is
about computer technology. Don’t worry; this interview is going to take
no more than five minutes.

Student 5: oh really?, good because I need to do many things.

40
Me: ok no problem, now I am going to give you five words and then you
have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind
immediately ok that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”,
then you have to give me words related to teacher….

(Then I give the paper and she wrote all the words that comes to her
mind)

Student 5: Ok that is all right?

Me: Of course yes but you have to answer two questions and then you
can go.

Students 5: ok no problem

Me: My first question is do you think that you improve your English
when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you
go to multimedia lab?

Student 5: Yes, because I can study better and also because I notice my
mistakes and that help me a lot.

Me: Ok and my last question is do you think that computer technology is

more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 5: Yes because it is not boring, also because I learn new things
that are not in the books and finally because it’s more interesting when
teacher explain something, especially grammar, using internet.

Me: Oh really? Teacher uses internet to explain grammar?

Student 5: Yes, and that is interesting because help me a lot and because,
sometimes grammar is no too easy.

41
 Me: oh ok, well that’s all and thank you very much for your patience.

Student 5: ok bye.

• Sixth Interview:

Me: Hi! How was your oral exam?

Student 6: that was quite difficult because I was thinking in other things
that I have to do in my house.

Me: Oh ok, well, Can you help with my research project. It is jus for few
minutes?

Student 6: oh ok is going to be easy right?

Me: of course yes, now I am going to give you five words and then you
have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind
immediately ok that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”,
then you have to give me words related to teacher….

Student 6: ok.

(Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his
mind)

Students 6: ok something else or you need my help?

Me: of course yes, I have two questions for you and then you can go. My
first question is do you think that you improve your English when you
use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to
multimedia lab?

42
 Student 6: Yes because helps me to learn more, also to be better student
and finally because It’s more easy to understand and quicker

Me: ok, now my second question is do you think that computer

technology is more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 6: oh yes, in some cases it is possible because we participate

more, and focus on the lesson. Because generally, we don’ pay too much
attention when he writes something on the board because its too boring
and difficult to understand.

Me: oh, well I see that you are busy, you can go, thank you very much.

Student 6: Ok no problem.

• Seventh Interview:

Me: Hi, How was your oral exam? I suppose that it was good

Student 7: Yes of course, why not?

Me: ok, now I would like to help me in my research project that is about
computer technology

Student 7: ok no problem, is going to be easy right?

Me: yes, you don’t have to be worry, it’s going to be easy, Now, I am
going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the
words that come to your mind immediately ok that is for each word. For
example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to
teacher….is clear?

Student 7: yes, no problem

43
 (Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his
mind)

Me: Now, I have two questions for you, my first question is do you think
that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for
example internet or when you go to multimedia lab?

Student 7: Yes, because I can be better in listening and be a better student

for example when I go to multimedia lab I practice a lot of exercises that
I can not do it in the book.

Me: ok, my second question is do you think that computer technology is

more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 7: I think that using computer technology makes me focus on

more in the class, it is more interesting, I feel more involve in the task
that teacher give us

Me: Why more involve?

Student 7: because I am more concentrate and pay more attention and

participate more when teacher asks questions.

Me: ok, that is all, thank you very much for your participation.

Friday, 27th February 2009

• First Interview:

Me: hi, how was your oral exam, I see that you wrote a lot of things in
your essay, and I say also that teacher made a lot of questions.

Student 8: Yes, my topic was kind of interesting and I investigate a lot of

things.

44
Me: ok, good for you, now It is possible to help me please? It is for my
research project about computer technology.

Student 8: ok No problem.

Me: Well, , I am going to give you five words and then you have to write
in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately ok that is for
each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me
words related to teacher….any question?

Student 8: No, it’s clear for me, no problem.

(Then I give the paper and she wrote all the words that comes to her
mind)

Me: Now, I have two questions for you and then you can go my first
question is do you think that you improve your English when you use
computer technology as for example internet or when you go to
multimedia lab?

Student 8: Yes because I can study better, you know is easier, and
because I have better results in my exams, so that makes me feel good.

Me: An interesting answer, now my last question is do you thinks that

computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 8: Yes, because stimulate to focus and pay more attention to the
class, especially when teacher uses power points or when he shows some
pictures from internet, that helps a lot, when I have a problem with a
vocabulary, teacher shows pictures to make understand better

Me: ok, thank you very much, that it’s all

45
 Student 8: Good luck with your research….

Me: thanks..,

• Second Interview:

Me: Hi, how was your oral exam? It seems that you were a little nervous.

Student 9: yes, because sometimes, I forget some words when I speak

especially when is an exam.

Me: Ok, no problems relax, this is not an exam, is just an interview, now
I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper
all the words that come to your mind immediately ok that is for each
word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me
words related to teacher….

(Then I give the paper and she wrote all the words that comes to her
mind)

Me: Now I have two questions for you and then you are free. Ok

Student 9: ok, but sure that is not an exam?

Me: No, is not an exam is just an investigation, no more. Ok, my first

question is do you think that you improve your English when you use
computer technology as for example internet or when you go to
multimedia lab?

Student 9: Yes, because I can be better student and study better English
Is easier, understandable and present a lot of exercises that we can
practice.

46
 Me: well, and my last question, do you think that computer technology is
more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 9: Of course yes, because it is more dynamic, and because we

participate more in the tasks that teacher does in the class and because we
don’t sleep in class.

Me: Do you sleep in class when the class is not motivating?

Student 9: Yes, because the schedule is really heavy for us, you know
come here after the dinner, is not good

Me: ok, thanks that is all.

• Third Interview:

Me: how was your exam? It was difficult or easy.

Student 10: Oh it was normal, not too difficult and not too easy.

Me: ah ok, so I don’t know if you can help with my research about
computer technology, is not going to take a lot of time.

Student 10: ok no problem.

Me: I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a
paper all the words that come to your mind immediately that is for each
word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me
words related to teacher….

(Then I give the paper and she wrote all the words that comes to her
mind)

Student 10: I finished that it’s all or you need something more.

47
 Me: Yes, actually I have two questions for you and then you can go-. My
first question is do you think that you improve your English when you
use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to
multimedia lab?

Student 10: yes, because computer technology as for example when I go

to multimedia lab presents a lot of exercises that I can practice, so, that
helps me a lot and I can study better English practicing grammar,
vocabulary and listening for example.

Me: ok, now my last question is do you think that computer technology is
more motivating than a traditional class?
Student 10: logically yes, because that encourage me to learn more and
more, and because it is more interesting and comfortable to see a teacher
using slides or practicing some exercises from internet that helps to make
understand better

Me: Ok, that is all, thank you for your patience and good luck for the
next course of advanced 03

Student 10: thank you, I say the same for you…

• Fourth Interview:

Me: Hi! Sorry for this inconvenience, It’s going to be quick, is for my
research project from the methodology course,

Student 11: ok no problem

Me: Well, I am going to give you five words and then you have to write
in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately that is for
each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me
words related to teacher….

48
 Student11: But, if don’t know what to say?

Me: Take it easy, the words that I am going to give you are easy to relate
to some thing that you like.

(Then I give the paper and she wrote all the words that comes to her
mind)

Me: Well, these two questions and we finish. My first question is do you
think that you improve your English when you use computer technology
as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab?

Student 11: well, I think yes because, I can study better, it means practice
more exercises, that helps me to be also a good student in the class. Of
course using adequately the multimedia lab or internet because in some
cases we can focus in another things

Me: ok, now my last question is do you think that computer technology is
more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 11: yes because, that helps to understand better is an effective

class in other words for visual students helps a lot because is easier you
know for example designs of how the activity is presented by the teacher.

Me: ok, thanks very much, that is all

• Fifth Interview:

Me: Hi, well thank you to be here, as you listen I think, this interview is
for my research project from the methodology course. So, I am going to
give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words
that come to your mind immediately that is for each word. For example,
the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher.

49
 Student 12: Ok, is going to be easy right?

Me: You don’t have to worry about that. Is “Papallita”

(Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind)

Me: Ok now, I have two questions for you and then you can go. My first
question is do you think that you improve your English when you use
computer technology as for example internet or when you go to
multimedia lab?

Student 12: Yes, because that exercises from multimedia lab and internet
are very dynamical and useful because help me to learn the language
better

Me: ok now my last question is do you think that computer technology is

more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 12: yes, because is easier to understand, because when teacher

doesn’t use computer technology, we don’t pay attention to the class and
it is more boring especially in this schedule that is really heavy.

Me: ok that is all thank you very much for your participation.

• Sixth Interview:

Me: Hi, well this is going to be quick, it’s not going to take a lot of time.
So, I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a
paper all the words that come to your mind immediately that is for each
word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me
words related to teacher.

50
 Student 13: ok, but is easy right?

Me: Yes, you don’t have to worry.

(Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind)

Me: Now I have two more questions and finish ok. My first question is
do you think that you improve your English when you use computer
technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab?

Student 13: Yes, because when I studied in multimedia lab or go to

internet to study, my grades are better, so I like to practice more and
more.

Me: Ok and my last question is do you think that computer technology is

more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 13: Yes because teacher makes the class funnier than when he
uses just the board, which is not motivating, it is interesting the class also
when he plays music or videos, which makes the class more dynamical.

Me: ok thank you very much, that is all.

• Seventh Interview:

Me: Hi, how was your oral exam? Easy, difficult, terrible or good

Student 14: Well, sincerely kind of difficult because I didn’t study

Me: well, you don’t have to be worry, you will be in the same situation
the next month, and in that case you are going to study. Well, I am going
to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words
that come to your mind immediately that is for each word. For example,

51
 the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher.
Ok any question…

Student 14: no, by the moment not.

(Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind)

Me: Now I have two questions and you are free to go to study if you
wish.

Student 14: Yes of course, to study.

Me: Ok, my first question is do you think that you improve your English
when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you
go to multimedia lab?

Student 14: Yes, because that helps me to learn more vocabulary, and
because in multimedia lab has a lot of exercises that we can practice and
to be a better student.

Me: Now the last question is do you think that computer technology is
more motivating than a traditional class?

Student 14: Yes, because it is more interesting to focus on the lesson,

there are more games so in my case I like games and I participate a lot if
teacher present games. Sometimes, teachers have to use new tools to
stimulate students and using computer technology I think that is a good
way to stimulate students.

Me: ok, that is a good answer, that is all, thank you very much.

• Eighth Interview:

Me: Hi, you are the last one, how was your oral exam?

52
Student 15: It was good, but you know you are not going to have too
much time; the bell is going to ring in 3 minutes.

Me: ok no problem, this is not going to take a lot of time. Well, I am

going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the
words that come to your mind immediately that is for each word. For
example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to
teacher.

(Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind)

Me: Now I have two questions and then you can go to enjoy that you
finish this cycle. So my first question is do you think that you improve
your English when you use computer technology as for example internet
or when you go to multimedia lab?

Student 15: Yes, I think that using computer technology as internet or

multimedia lab help to improve our skills, especially in grammar and
listening.

Me: Ok my last question is do you think that computer technology is

more motivating than a traditional class

Student 15: yes, because it’s obvious when teacher uses internet for
explain something , we as students fell more involve in theme, so that
stimulate to pay more attention to the class and to be more concentrate on
what we have to study.

Me: ok, that is all, thank you very much and enjoy your vacations, bye.

53