Technology Use: ELL Instruction- Unit 5

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This week's Google Alerts did not bring anything of interest and as I went to refine my alert settings, I found this very interesting article from May. The article, "New Directions for Technology Use in ELL Instructions," discusses a variety of teaching approaches for language learners of all levels. It starts by stating that 9.3% of public school students are ELLs and that despite making progress in reading, they consistently fall below their non-ELL peers. We can begin to close this gap by incorporating speaking and listening activities through the use of technology. The article dissects the information into six topics: differentiation, self-directed learning, access, mobility, multisensory learning, and future innovations. In each section, the article offers great tips, tools, and strategies to bring our ELLs closer to the success rate achieved by their non-ELL classmates. The strategies combine new innovative technologies with reliable traditional technologies.

Differentiation
These accommodations can help students feel more confident and motivated due to increased success.

• shortening long text
• adding visuals (my personal favorite)
• the choice to work individually or in a group
• alternative assessments
• type work rather than handwrite

Self-directed Learning

Students can feel lost or not in control of their learning environment when being taught in an unfamiliar language. These options can help relieve this anxiety.

• gaming tools/headsets
• choosing which listening and speaking activities to complete
• provided with a variety of technology programs/resources

Access

The misconception is that full immersion is the best way to master skills, however, increased access to technology can diversify the activities or assignments given. These strategies can improve fluency and pronunciation by exploring language beyond conversations in the classroom. 

• listening to audiobooks
• podcasts
• TedEd videos
• video editing
• gaming software

Mobility

Making learning mobile through handheld devices provides students the ability to continue learning at home or on the go. Expanding their learning environment can help students feel more confident and motivated as they hone their 21st-century skills such as digital citizenship. 

• educational applications
• iPods, tablets, or smartphones
• Snapchat
• Instagram

Multisensory Learning

Studies show that touch can help connect the seeing and hearing of learning. Giving students the ability to see, hear, and touch while learning can help make those important connections

• Vocabulary cards/readers
• digital storytelling/storyboards
• comic strips

Future Innovations

Educational technology is continuing to grow each day and new tools are helping our students overcome their challenges. 

• virtual reality
• augmented reality
• wearable technology