Computer Assisted Language Learning Task 1

ESL WEBSITE EVALUATION


1. The application (the website INTERESTING THINGS FOR ESL STUDENTS) attempts to teach topics such as vocabulary, listening, reading, speaking and grammar which are the basis for all ESL classes. The application also attempts to ‘teach’ teachers creative ways to deliver an English lesson with suggestions that use art, games and technology in the English Second Language classroom. The various activities can be modified or adapted for the level of proficiently possessed by the students. Not only will the students have a more fun and easier time learning, the activities are also interactive so that the teacher may participate along with the students.

2. The application user is expected to do the following with regards to learning the content. For vocabulary, a list of vocabulary words is provided along with corresponding games and puzzles like crossword puzzles, matching quizzes which are basic word-based games. In terms of listening and speaking, activities such as ‘Listen & Read Along’ as well as pronunciation activities that have the user listen and repeat are also available. Grammar activities are done through Flash Quizzes and Quizzes based on VOA’s Special English Programs. As for writing, spelling and vocabulary quizzes are also available. The application user is expected to fully participate and interact with the website.

3. The application user should have a basic knowledge in how to use the internet and to use the hardware like the mouse and the keyboard. For the activities, it requires just that. Word processing is also vital as well as use of various hardware like the speakers when doing the listening and speaking activities as well as the video viewing programs for the media files available as well. And on a basic note, being able to use (and respect) a computer is also important.

4. A few of the activities, while I was ‘playing’ with the application, seem very familiar, such as the spelling/grammar quizzes which I did in primary school and the Listen & Read Along activity which I did during my early secondary school years. These were often done with a teacher present. I do recall doing a crossword puzzle, in class, with my classmates, like the one in the application as well as the rearrangement of words to make a sentence and the rearrangement of letters to make various words. Also, there was storytelling, but aside from that nothing else seems familiar.

5. A few of the theories of language learning/teaching can be seen being utilized in the application. These theories are called ‘theories in practice’ as they are being actively used within the application. In other words methods. The teaching/learning methods can be seen in the activities as they properly promote the practice of second language (English) learning. One of these theories is the Social Interactionist Theory. This is shown through written, spoken and visual activities. Then there is the Relational Frame Theory which is the theory that connects the learning of language with the interaction of the learner and the environment, with the environment being the website’s applications since they are interactive activities that give visual rewards for every successful task, promoting self motivation for the learner.

6. The Constructivist Theory of Learning does apply to the chosen website since the website utilizes language games and activities. According to the constructivist theory, humans generate knowledge and meaning from experience. I believe the activities existing in the application apply this theory since the activities are interactive and allow the user to repeat the activities over and over again like a drill. This action allows the user (students) to learn better and as a game a sense of competitiveness and to be better than their fellow students will have them practice and be better. Of course there will be a lack of social interaction between the user and computer as one is a person and the other is a machine, unless a connection is made between two or more persons via the machine. The activities also serve to challenge the user as their level of proficiency progresses. A sense of accomplishment once the user succeeds in conquering the activities may also motivate them into doing better and maybe help them to encourage others as well.

7. I don’t believe that the computer is a replacement for a teacher nor is it a servant for the students. I do believe that the computer and the applications are a useful tool. A computer can only do so much but people can go beyond their limitations for the sake of knowledge and education. The computer is merely a means towards and end, with the end result being a more successful individual who can teach or learn better. The applications within the website serve as learning exercises and tools to assess the users and tools for the teacher to use for their classroom. From how I see it, a computer is neither a replacement or a slave. Rather, it is an assistant since it assists us in doing specific tasks.

8. Yes, I would use the application myself in any and all future work. This is because the variety of activities can be used for any specific proficiency level (Beginner, Intermediate and Advance). The interactive feature of the application also helps and the visual and audio aids make it interesting. The delivery of the substance is also interesting and will be able to draw in the attention of the students. I would definitely recommend teachers and students to use this website for future activities in the classroom and personal use.

Website URL: http://www.manythings.org/