Hi,

I am an esl teacher and am presently working on my research paper. I would like to get some feedback as to what are the various forms/types of technology (both old and new) used in adult esl/efl classes today. Also, how comfortable are adult esl students with their learning using technology and does using technology this way show any measure of improvement in their english? In other words, is it an effective way of learning esl in adults at various levels, that is, at beginner, intermediate and advanced levels and if so why?

Would like to know your opinions or experiences on this.

Thanks.

Hi, Ithink it is important to precise that I'm not an expert in adults earning processes. However, I would probably encourage an approach relating to discussion. On the other hand, it depends of what the students wants to learn. Obviously, if they are there to improve their communicative skills you should mostly focus on discsussion activities. The best way to improve communicative abilities is surely to practice. If they are looking to improve their grammar or writing skills, I think that this may be a good idea. Adults are all familiar with computers and are serious regarding the work to accomplish. You won't encounter the same problems that you may have with children. Moreover, computers provides a certain autonomy throughout the learning process. Those are simply little advices. Wait for more comments.

Not all adults are used to computer technology. Most of them will say there are, but their knowledge is often limited to very simple tasks. I regularly meet people that had successful careers without ever having to push the power switch on a computer. Not every adult student is like this, but generally speaking computer mediated teaching always requires a fair bit of time so they can master it/ be comfortable with it. If the focus shifts from language teaching to computer basics, then everything becomes problematic as the whole syllabus becomes stressful for them. I teach to older students with working disabilities and I always introduce even the simplest web based exercises with great caution. I monitor them “over the shoulder” and I often end up giving an “Introduction to Windows lesson” ... I do believe technology is a great tool, but I always keep in mind that I might have to spend several precious hours on fundamental notions.