Technology as a Facilitator in the English as a Foreign Language Essay Example for Free

applied science as a Facilitator in the slope as a Foreign Language Essay applied science has taken over most areas of our lives including schools. Specifically, the arrival of the lucre changed the way that language is taught thanks to the possibility of chat throughout the world and beca custom of the many sources online. This essay go away deal with different aspects of computers and internet in the form of commandment and learning English as a foreign language (EFL). First, I will entertain examples of different technological slams that tolerate be subroutined to teach a language. Second, I will act the advantages of using technology for learning different aspects of a language. Then, I will present the disadvantages of technology. Finally, I will provide recommendations for teachers regarding the use of technology in the EFL classroom. I chose this subject since I have worked in the advanced industry for over a decade and I am interested in applying the Hi-Tec h resources to table service my pupils the best way I bay window. I believe that nowadays technology is the most essential fixings in our lives, and is a great tool to use in the EFL classroom.Technology includes computers, software programs, internet, video players, command overhead projectors and data show projectors, as well as multimedia (texts, films, video, audio, animation, and graphics). Since students read to experience the language in every aspect possible, technology can be an effective tool to teach languages including EFL. This is important because in the early 80s, Howard Gardner proposed the theory of multiple intelligences. He stated that each student is unique and learns in a different ways. Today, various tools and applications of technology can be used in multiple ways in the EFL classroom regardless of the students level or the subject taught. It can provide opportunities that address individual student learning and meet the different learning styles. Langu age learning and teaching is enabled by the many sources of materials that students can use.First, the internet enables teachers to bring different cultures into the classroom, which is an important element in language learning and teaching. For some tasks, much(prenominal) as listening exercises, computers have advantages over traditional approaches because they provide sound as well as visual input that helps students with contextual clues. Second, a variety ofsoftware programs allows students to practice wording, reading, listening comprehension, grammar, and speaking skills. An environs rich with language allows the students to interact with each some other so that learning through communication can occur (Liaw, 1997, in Patel, 2013). The computer with its different learning strategies and games constitutes an attractive kind of teaching.Third, Case and Truscott (1999, in Green, 2003), catch-up that the independence the students acquire while working on a computer pushes t hem to read from simple to heterogeneous texts since it addresses their personal needs. Most students find it easier to approach a writing task on the computer because it is more enjoyable. One reason is the use of graphics and dictionaries available online that help them write more confidently. Moreover, the use of netmail is a way to encourage students to write in a new language. According to Trenchs (1996, in Green, 2003), students use e-mails, willingly because they dont feel forced to do so and because they know they are not being graded. The want of pressure encourages students to share information while doing so in a foreign language. In addition, the use of e-mailing is an excellent tool to improve writing skills as well as vocabulary science.The computer and internet have become the main means for communication on a worldwide level and since communication is considered an excellent tool for promoting language learning, technology is welcomed in the EFL classroom. The s tudents have the opportunity to communicate freely without a time limit or social concerns. Even the weaker students are able to take an active spot in class and communicate confidently with their teachers through e-mails.In spite of the importance and effectiveness of technology, when teaching and learning EFL in concerned, there are some disadvantages. First, the computer can be an overwhelming and enforce instrument for some(prenominal) students and teachers. The complexity of the computer possibilities may cause frustration, as students and teachers spend a hazard of time struggling and trying to understand how to use it. The search for suitable materials is also time overpowering and can be very exhausting. In addition Colaric and Jonassen (2003 in Morgan, 2008) warn teachers from the vast library.Inother words, the search for information and hyper-linking may be a distraction from the learning process. An additional disadvantage is the teachers wishing of computer skills and technical knowledge. This usually leads to a complete waste of time in class and adds to both teachers and students confusion. Finally, the cost of maintenance is another disadvantage of using technology, especially in schools. So, unless the teacher is well educate in technology, and can solve problems that might occur, a technician will be needed. Schools usually find it awkward to support the purchased technology, and that makes them useless.Hence, in order to turn technology into a teaching strategy, teachers need to be boost to acquire the necessary skills in using technology to help improve their teaching. In addition teachers need to be aware of the importance of technology in enhancing learning in the EFL classroom. Once teachers and students learn how to make responsible use of computers, and master the skill of selecting and editing the large range of information for their purposes, language acquisition will become easier.To conclude, having given examples of diffe rent technological tools that can be used to teach a language. Then, presented the advantages and disadvantages of using technology in the EFL classroom and finally provided recommendations for teachers regarding the use of technology, it can be said that technology, specifically computers and the internet, has many benefits for language learning when it is used correctly. Teachers can use it to improve the learning environment and the students vocabulary as well as reading, listening, and speaking skills.Also, technology in the EFL classroom offers students a range of information, need to learn and an enhanced quality of class work. This essay has also shown the disadvantages of using technology when teachers and students do not know how to handle it moderately and wisely. It is extremely important to remember that technology is a great tool in the EFL classroom, but it cannot replace the teacher.References1.Case, C. and Truscott, D. (1999). development Technology to Help ESL/EFL Students Develop Language Skills. In Green, (2003). 2.Green, T. (2003).Using Technology to Help ESL/EFL Students Develop Language Skills. http//iteslj.org/Articles/Ybarra-Technology.html/26.4.2013. 3.Liaw, M.L. (1997). Computer Network Technology-A Facilitator in English Language direction Learning. In Patel, S.D. (2013). 4.Morgan, M. (2008). More Productive Use of Technology in the ESL/EFL Classroom. http//iteslj.org/Articles/Morgan-Technology.html./26.4.2013. 5.Patel, S.D. (2013). Computer Network Technology-A Facilitator in English Language Teaching Learning. https//sites.google.com/site/journaloftechnologyforelt/archive/3-2-april-2013/2-computer-network-technology-a-facilitator-in-english-language-teaching-learning./ 26.4.2013 6.Trenchs, M. (1996). Using Technology to Help ESL/EFL Students Develop Language Skills. In Green, (2003).