Theme Resources

Hear what other educators are saying about web-based activities for second language students:

Blogging for Foreign Language Students

A French instructor, Sandy Evans, discusses the advantages of blog activities in teaching FSL.  Unlike previous set composition topics and punitive assessment feedback, blogging allows for writing projects that “may not be perfect” but are more open-ended and creative. She explains how facilitating students’ collaboration has created a more cohesive and cooperative learning space.

 

 Computerized Foreign Language Learning

Professor Alexander Arguelles argues how the content of foreign language study is more important than the changing medium.  While he admits that advances in, for example, voice recognition technology are beneficial, he doesn’t wholeheartedly agree, “the computer, in and of itself, will revolutionize and change language learning.” Arguelles advises students to understand what kind of learner they are, and recommends various sites and software he believes have substance.

 E-Teaching French as a Second Language 

Parts 1 & 2

Two e-teachers outline the important factors of online second language education.  Key to e-teaching is a focus on well-established “best practices” and learning theories; a desire to develop technology skills; the ability to integrate technology with the instructional goals, strategies, delivery and student needs; a commitment to planning and time management; and an appreciation of the value of online resources.  Also important is an understanding of the various roles of an e-teacher, and the need to establish a comfortable learning space. 

 The Digital Foreign Language Classroom

Blogs and digital portfolios are used in a French language classroom in Mooresville, NC.  Students may check on improvements in pronunciation, write about goals and reflections, and connect with other FSL students locally and internationally.  Students comment on being responsible for their own learning, having a sense of independence with self-paced study, and developing a collaborative attitude.

 

 Web 2.0 Applications in the Modern Foreign Languages Classroom

As instructor José Picardo explains, the benefits of effectively using web applications in L2 classes go beyond the obvious increase in motivation and engagement. Free programs like Extranormal require students to develop study, computer, and language skills. Completed films published on a school blog inspire students to take pride in their own work, as well as in providing peer assessment. Picardo reassures teachers that they don’t have to be experts; the students quickly take on that role.

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