The Use of Internet and Communication Technologies has Changed English Language Instruction

      

                                                     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)