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Photo: english.com
Technology is utilized for the
upliftment of modern styles; it satisfies both visual and auditory senses of
the students. With the spread and development of English around the world,
English has been learned and used by more and more speakers. According to David
Graddol ‘it is the language at the leading edge of scientific and technological
development, new thinking in economies and management, new literatures and
entertainment genre. (Shyamlee, 2012)
In a greater sense, internet
offers the best way to learn language other than immersion in an English
speaking milieu. The advantages of online learning, can be summarized under the
following headings : 1) Access – the internet offers the possibility to
experience English without the need of travel. Even without the need of leaving
home or bedroom; 2) Flexibility – the internet allows for users to learn
language when they want, where they want ; 3) Response – the internet offers
the possibility of instant feedback to learners. This greatly enhances the
learning experience ; 4) Repeatability – the learner can encounter the language
in a repetitive fashion until mastery is achieved; 5) Durability – the internet
is 24/7. It never tires. It does not take coffee breaks ; 6) Modality – the
internet is a multi modal learning tool. It stimulates in a rich sensory and
cognitive and thus fertilizes language acquisition successfully; 7) Specificity
– the internet allows the language learner choice and variety in both what and
with who will be learned. Learning can be tailored to the language learner s
precise makeup and needs;and 8) Cost – the internet is a business model which
due to economies of scale, can offer services for pennies. It also offers to
widen access through a pay as you can dynamic. The internet-mediated
communication allows users to share not only brief messages, but also create
lengthy documents - thus facilitating collaborative writing (learning).
Furthermore, learners can share graphics, sounds and video. Thus, the internet
helps create an environment where authentic and creative communication is
integrated into all aspects of the course.
In the application of ICT in
foreign language teaching, The integration of information and communications
technology in teaching and learning is considered as a medium in which a
variety of approaches and pedagogical philosophies may be implemented. However,
ICT as a teaching aid is more complicated in that it demands more specific
skills from the teachers. The development of ICT – electronic mail, internet,
multi media, possibilities to use collaborative platforms, undoubtedly,
influences the process of using them in everyday classroom teaching and
learning. ICT no longer serves to be a simple additional means but ICT is an
indispensable part of the modern and contemporary learning environment . The
application of ICT gives more opportunities for communication between peer
learners: they can exchange information in real time, they can participate in
blog discussions, work in teams on different projects, exchange emails, search
for information, etc. By using the authentic material provided by the internet,
we will have a better insight into the culture of the country and people whose
language we study. There is significant evidence of the benefits and advantages
that the use of ICT can have on learners. The effective use of ICT impacts on
learners and various aspects of the learning process can be summarized as
follows: ICT increases learners’ motivation and thus enhances personal
commitment and engagement; ICT improves independent learning; Learners’
collaboration and communication are more important; and Learners’ attainment and outcomes are improved.(Isisag,2012)
Highlighting
the truth, Computer technology is not a panacea for language teaching; using it
demands substantial commitments of time and money and brings no guaranteed
results.
Yet, when appropriately implemented, new technologies
provide the means to help reshape both the content and processes of language
education. Appropriate use of new technologies allows for a more thorough
integration of language, content, and culture than ever before and provides
students with unprecedented opportunities for autonomous learning. Computer
technologies not only help teachers and students to transcend linguistic,
geographical, and time barriers but also to build bridges between bilingual, ESL,
and foreign language programs. The use of new technologies allows students to
engage in the types of online communication and research which will be
paramount for success in their academic and professional pursuits.
(Warschauer, 2000)