Technology Notebook Project Presentations

I learned a lot from the class presentations this week.  Some of these facts I knew about from my own research and others I had only learned from these presentations.

From watching the presentation on video games and learning, I learned that playing computer-based video games is actually more effective in facilitating average learning outcomes than text-based computer instruction. I also learned that playing video games can enhance productivity, promote hand-eye coordination and spatial skills.  I knew that video games helped with hand-eye coordination and spatial skills, however, I was unaware that they enhanced learning outcomes and productivity.  Research I found stated that video games and other "entertainment technology" had a negative effect on learning because it takes up valuable study time.  I learned some interesting facts that I did not know before from this presentation.

The video on ESL and technology taught me that using technology in ELL classrooms can enhance these students' learning.  Using computers allows ELLs to work at their own pace and level.  They can also help students improve their vocabulary and computer skills.  The use of technology in the classroom also promotes responsibility and creativity.  Many teachers do not know how to use computer-based technology in the classroom.  Therefore, if they use computers in ELL classrooms, the teachers can also learn how to use them.  I hope that I am fortunate enough to have technology available to my class in the future.  The use of computers would be effective, not only for my ESL students, but all of my students.  

While watching the presentation on voice blogs in language classrooms I learned that language teachers do not have enough time to have each student talk, and practice their second language.  From the article in this presentation, it was stated that the use of oral blogs could be used outside of the classroom to provide each student with practice. The author also suggested the students listen to their classmates' blogs, as well.  I like this idea.  It would allow the students extra time to practice their oral language skills, as well as their listening skills.  This is a good way to assess the students' learning, other than grading their tests.  Many students maybe able to write another language, but speaking it may be difficult (or the other way around).  This presentation was very well prepared, and I believe that I learned a great deal about technology in language classrooms.  I like the ideas presented in this article and, although I do not plan on teaching a foreign language, I believe that the use of voice blogs will come in handy in my future classroom as an assessment tool.

I also learned, from the presentation on language learning websites, that these websites should include   grammar activities and explanations, reading and listening passages, vocabulary and dictionary options, games and assessments and chat options in the target language.  These activities would provide practice and assessment outside of the classroom, just as the voice blogs would.

Overall, I learned a lot of interesting and useful information from the class presentations.  While some of the information does not apply to me, I hope that I will be able to use some of the technology discussed in my future career.