COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY IMPROVE AND MOTIVATE STUDENTS TO LEARN ENGLISH The best metaphor for the computer technology is the jungle; the jungle provides an endless source of sustenance and delight to those who know their way in it. To those who do not, it is a dark and impenetrable maze, full of changes and unpredictable menace. In like manner, the computer technology offers infinite resources for the people that like to practice their English. For those unfamiliar with it, however, it can be a treating presence, characterized by total lack of structure, full of potential predators. The second believe is technology will not turn bad teachers into good teachers. It will not be a magic potion that will turn uninterested or unwilling students into eager and rapid learners of languages. But technology will make available to skilled teachers and keen learners a range of tools and resources to augment the traditional classroom learning environment. 1.1.Reason for Choosing this topic: The principal reason and the most important at the same time is that it is essential to integrate effective use of computer technology into typical practice in language teaching, not just to enhance or extend existing practice, but to change practice. Clearly, change is only acceptable when it can be demonstrated to make learning more effective. Computer technology is transforming the way we live and to suggest that teaching can stand apart is to ignore the potential of existing and emerging technology. 1.2. Importance of the topic: Development of computer technologies includes also the use of the Internet and its popular interface, the World Wide Web is part of an emerging and evolving global information industry. Users access the Web through a navigator or browser that is rapidly redefining the form of a graphic user interface to online information. This in turn, is impacting on ‘traditional’ media such as broadcast television, newspapers, books and magazines. In 1996, commercial 2
interest in the Internet increased significantly. Where this will lead to is as yet unknown, but existing trends indicate opportunities for education to use the functional capacity of what emerges. One of the trends is computer platform software independence which would allow software to be used via the Internet on any computer, regardless of the type. Another outcome of growth in Internet use is that networked educational services can now be accessed from locations outside of educational institutions. Technology has come of age as a language teaching resource which can potentially provide bridges to the target language and culture. We risk technology becoming just another ‘discarded enthusiasm’ (Leal Report 1991) unless language educators and policy makers address the following challenges: • • • Use of technology in harmony with current and best language and language learning theory; Availability of appropriate technology at the delivery and language learning sites; Student and teacher training in using technologies that enhance language teaching and learning. 1.3. Research problem: The problems that we consider to explain is: Do Students think computer technology improve their skills (Listening, writing, speaking and reading) and motivate for learning English better than a traditional class (without technology)? II. Literature Review 2.1. Technology “A new technology does not add or subtract something. It changes everything. ... What we need to consider about the computer has nothing to do
with it is efficiency as a teaching tool. We need to know in what ways it is altering our conception of learning, and how, in conjunction with television, it undermines the old idea of school” (Postman 1992, pp. 18– 19) Over the past several decades, technology has become a fixture in many homes around the world, and its influence has permeated into all facets of our lives, including educational settings. This phenomenon has been called by many as the wave of the future in which language instruction will be driven by new advances in computers, the Internet, and mobile technologies. However, how we go about integrating technology into our classrooms can have a huge impact on whether a technologically-driven classroom succeeds or fails, even with low-tech solutions. • Definition of technology: The National Board of Employment, Education and Training (Australia, 1996) said “the term ‘technology’ has acquired chameleonlike properties in society. A brief definition will not suffice to cover the complexity and inter-relatedness of all that this term currently encompasses. It is more appropriate to consider the attributes of technology which include: Technology includes: o Objects: artifacts or apparatus (hardware) devised by,
manufactured by, and employed in the service of people. o Processes: technical activities that include the development and use of skills, procedures, routines, and techniques designed by people to achieve a planned outcome. Included in these processes is the software needed to support hardware. Technological processes are generally distinguished from other forms of human
activity by their planned, programmed, sequential, outcome oriented form. o Systems: organizational structures that result from and/or rely on objects and processes. These include bureaucracies; multinational companies; quality circles; computer conferences; production lines; organizations that produce, market and maintain services and products and networks. o Knowledge: once closely linked to manufacturing, technology is now better identified by the capacity to develop and use knowledge needed to create new artifacts, processes and systems and to market that knowledge internationally. This is knowledge drawn from accumulated experience. Use of technology does not necessarily require technological knowledge, but its development does. Technological sophistication resides more with the ‘know how’ than with manufacturing.” On the other hand UNESCO (1985) defines technology as "...the know-how and creative processes that may assist people to utilize tools, resources and systems to solve problems and to enhance control over the natural and made environment in an Endeavour to improve the human condition." In summary we can say that technology involves the purposeful application of knowledge, experience and resources to create processes and products that meet human needs. The needs and wants of people in particular communities determine the technology that is developed and how it is applied. People judge the popularity of technological applications by their impact on health, personal well- being and lifestyle, education, economies and ecosystems.
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Role of technology in education: Paul Steninger (2002) said: “Technology is playing an increasing role in education. As technology advances, it is used to benefit students of all ages in the learning process”. We can say that technology advances benefits students in many different ways. Nowadays, in the case of teaching languages, technology has become a very important tool for the teacher that can help students to make easy to understand the language better. Technology has also become part of many curriculums, even outside of computer and technology classes. Students use computers to create presentations and use the Internet to research topics for papers and essays. On the other hand, Randall Davis (2006), teacher of English Language Institute, University of Utah, said: “as for teachers, we need to think beyond the box and determine, step-by-step, what technology can do for us to support---not supplant---our teaching goals. Fortunately, educators can be very chameleonic with the right tools and training, and can adapt their teaching styles to new situations.” Another thing that we have to consider is the uses of technology, as a tool, not supplant a teacher in the class. Sometimes, students think technologies can supplant teachers, so as teachers we have to be carful using technologies in class
•
Advantages of using technology: Li Wang (2005) said “technology has dramatically changed the way people gather information, conduct research and communicate with others worldwide”. Also, she considers the intercultural exchange because of the use of technology when students learn English.
On the other hand, Richard Kern (2006) said that the advantages of using technologies are:
• • • • • •
Extend access to educational resources Deepen understanding by making abstract concepts visible Assist learners in organizing and analyzing information Amplify students' means of expression Promote collaborative learning Enable students to develop polished products through cycles of revision.
In summary, we can say that the main advantage of using technology is creating a great way to communicate with people in different cultures. For instance, the Internet offers a worldwide learning environment that makes distance communication fast and affordable. By using the Internet, crosscultural cooperative groups can be developed., So while last ten years, teachers thought foreign language students to write essays and read magazines. Now, we must teach them to write e-mail and conduct online research. Thus, integrating technology into language classrooms is inevitable. Technology as a tool for teacher: According to Lynne Schrum (2005), “technology is a tool that can change the nature of learning. Technology provides educators with the opportunity to move from simply streamlining the way things have always been done to really imagining things they would like to do.” According to these ideas, be aware that technology is just a tool, and designing creative instruction is the key to successfully integrating technology into classrooms. To do this, teachers must first know what the technology can do for language learning: o Word processing: is a great way for students to engage in writing, prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, saving, printing, 7
o Publishing students’ work: Computer technologies make students’ work easy to publish in multiple ways, such as in newsletters, flyers, Web pages, CD-ROMs, etc. o Communication through the Internet: While language is for communication, the Internet has broken down communication’s distance barrier. Therefore, students can build up partnerships with learning peers in target languages through the Internet. 2.2. Computer Technology: • Why use computer technology in learning English? According to Doug Bruce and Angela Bird (2006), there are two reasons for using computer technology in English. First there are the benefits to teachers and students from including computer technology in any learning area: For students, technology can:
• • • •
be very motivacional be the source of a significant amount of reading material Be fun - and when it's fun you learn! help students to produce excellent published work
For teachers, technology can:
•
Allow for the easy production, storage and retrieval of prepared materials such as certificates and work required sheets. free up communication with other teachers help teachers to find information easily Assist good teaching but not replace it. Secondly, there are the challenges and opportunities presented by
• • •
computer technology that make it an increasingly important part of English in particular. These include:
•
The emergence of new kinds of texts and the consequent need to Changing social practices associated with communicating via about appropriate use of different avenues of
teach students to create and use these texts effectively;
•
computers and the consequent need to teach students how to make judgments
•
communication; The pervasiveness and power of texts created through computer technology and the consequent need to teach students to be critical readers and viewers of such texts. In summary, we can say that the advantage of using computer technology is for both, the teachers and the students. However, we have to consider that in the case that teacher or students don’t use computer technology in a good way, this can cause a great problem since of students computer technology can be a distracter because sometimes students can focus in another things for example when they use internet, they can focus in chat, playing games, etc. In the case of teacher, computer technology can be a problem if they don’t know how to manage. 2.3. Internet: • What is internet? According to Gordon Lewis (2006) is a worldwide system of computer networks - a network of networks in which users at any one computer can, if they have permission, get information from any other computer (and sometimes talk directly to users at other computers). The www is as diverse as human experience and with its graphical interface and ability to integrate text, sound, video, and pictures in a communicating environment.
Also, Elvis Wagner, Teachers College, Columbia University, said: “…the Internet is a great Challenger to teachers; however, we do not have to confuse as a replacement for classroom teaching. Only when the internet is combined with activities according to the class does it reach it is enriching potential”.
•
Internet, Instructional tool or motivator? According to Kerry Lynn Rice (2008), “the internet as an instructional too, is a vast resource that has the capacity to improve teaching and learning in a multitude of ways. Think of this site as a portal to activities and resources that can enhance your own teaching and learning through the use of this remarkable tool. ”. On the other hand, Johnny Lee said that internet as a motivator is most popular among students as they are often associated with fun and games. Student motivation is therefore increased, especially whenever a variety of activities are offered. This in turn makes students feel more independent. We can say, the internet can be used a as tool and motivator too, for the reason that internet in one way helps teacher to give extra information and exercises that can be used in the classroom. And in the other hand, it can be used as a “Motivator” because nowadays, students feel more motivated due to the dynamical activities enriched by graphics and animations — to help students solve real-life problems that offer internet.
2.3. Motivation: A large body of research during the last decade is oriented towards measuring student motivation in the digital era. Motivation in itself is not clearly defined; there is no agreed notion of what comprises motivation as well. However, in this graphic we can see different kinds of motivation that help us to understand better what motivation is. 10
Source: Ryan, Richard and Deci Edward,” Intrinsic and extrinsic motivations: Classic Definitions and New Direction” 2000. University of Rochester On the other hand, Larry c. Bernard and Michael Mills (2006) said: “motivation is defined as purposeful behavior that is ultimately directed toward the fundamental goal of inclusive fitness” In summary, we can say that motivation is the set of reasons that determines one to engage in a particular behavior. In the case of learning we can say that motivation is ways to stimulate a student to focus and pay more attention in the class using different activities or tools. We can say that motivation is motion towards goal”. III. Hypothesis: • • The first hypothesis that we want to prove is Students think computer technology improve their uses of skills better. And the last hypothesis is that students think computer technology motivates to learn the language better than WHEN doing some activities without using computer technology.
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IV. Design: 4.1. Theory: The purpose of the project was to prove that students can improve and be motivated using computer technologies better than a traditional class (without computer technology). Computer technologies are tools that teacher can use to do the class more interesting. This study aims to record the interviews about what students think in relation to computer technologies and also mental representations about how students consider the uses of this tool. 4.2. Sample: 4.2.1. Participants: The participants of this project are divided in two groups. In the case of the interviews, we worked with students of Advanced 2. On the other hand, in the case of the questionnaires, we surveyed 50 students from intermediate 4 until advanced 4.
4.2.2. Reasons for which this sample was chosen: We decided to choose students from intermediate and advanced level for the reason that they already knew how the process of learning English is and because the level of the questionnaires and the interviews are for people that know the language better than basic students. 4.3. Action Plan: 4.3.1. Questionnaire: The questionnaire was applied at the beginning of the class in students of Advanced 01, 04 and intermediate 06. First, teacher of the classroom introduced me, and then I explained to the students the reason why I was there. After, I gave the questionnaires to students and asked if anyone has a question, and finally I came back at the end of the class to collect the questionnaires. 12
4.3.2. Interviews: The interviews were done in the final days of the course 25th and 27th on February because teacher divided classrooms in two groups for the oral exams. First, the teacher introduced me, then I explained to the students the reason why I was there and what I was going to do. So the plan was that after students finish the oral exam with the teacher, one by one had to come to me in total were 15 interviews. V. RESEARCH: The subject of my research was advanced 2. There were nineteen students between 12 to 27 years old. The class belongs to regular program1. The time schedule was at 2:00 – 3:45 p.m. The research was implemented on February 2009. VI. ANALYSIS AND RESULTS 6.1. Interviews: In the interviews I had two punctual questions. The first question is Do you think that your English improves when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab2? And the second question Do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? As for example in these two interviews we can see some answer that the majority of students said: Third Interview (Appendix 3) Me: Well, My first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 3: Yes, because it helps me to study better the language and because computers makes easier the things to learn English.
1 2
Regular Program: Monday to Friday. Multimedia LAB: Is a special place in which students practice their English using Computers and different programs that help in grammar, vocabulary, listening, reading, etc.
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Me: ok, now my second question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 3: Of course yes, but especially is because when we use internet for example we are more concentrate because is more dynamic, games, and for how they present the exercises to practice. Also, when teacher uses videos from internet, helps a lot to focus on the class. Me: oh, that is a good answer, so that’s all, thank you very much… bye. Seventh Interview (Appendix 03) Me: Now, I have two questions for you, my first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 7: Yes, because I can be better in listening and be a better student for example when I go to multimedia lab I practice a lot of exercises that I can not do it in the book. Me: ok, my second question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 7: I think that using computer technology makes me focus on more in the class, it is more interesting, I feel more involve in the task that teacher give us Me: Why more involve? Student 7: because I am more concentrate and pay more attention and participate more when teacher asks questions. Me: ok, that is all, thank you very much for your participation. 14
The results of all these interviews present similar answers and the general points that students said are: • First question: In this case, students said that multimedia labs and the use of internet are more dynamics that means they like to do or practice exercises. In multimedia lab, there are lots of exercises presented in different contexts that they can practice as for example: practice vocabulary about using as a context at the restaurant or at the hospital that help students to get the language better. Also that multimedia and internet are very useful and organized way to learn new skills. Students said that feel more comfortable. One of the advantages that students said about multimedia lab and internet are that students can correct different mistakes when they practice exercises, so students can see what are wrong and correct the exercises. In addition, Students go to multimedia lab and internet because they want to have better results in their exams. They care about having good grades and as a consequences feeling motivated to continue studying English. And finally, students said that sometimes they have to be careful using multimedia lab or internet because it can be as a distracter for the reason that sometimes students can focus in different things like videos, music, chat, etc. According to these answers, we can prove that students use multimedia lab and internet to improve their English. This
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means that these tools help student to use and manage the language better • Second Question: On the other hand, the second question was about motivation and students said that task is easier when it is presented using computer technology (power points, internet, etc) and as a consequence they feel more motivated and focus better on the task. In contrast, when teacher doesn’t use the computer or the internet students feel boring and in some cases they spend their time in different things like talking to their friend or playing something for not to feel boring. Also, using computer technologies in students, generate more participation and as a consequence more dynamism in the class. We can prove that students feel more motivated when teacher uses computer technology, they participate more, they are more active students it means that they are more autonomous and use the language more to improve their English. • Mental Representation: Our memory never matches the real world perfectly, because stored mental representations are not perfect. Mental representations have some sensory qualities, for example: in your imagination, you can make a walk through your house. Recent studies using brain imaging have shown that during mental imagery most brain structures are active as if subjects are really experiencing or acting. You use your mental representation when you are thinking of what has happened at a specific place, and when you look in advance. For example, when someone asks you to show him the way, you use your mental representation to mention the name of the streets and the distances.
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In the interviews, I gave a paper (see on Appendix B) with five different words (Class with technology, Motivation, Internet, class without technology and improve) so students had to write another words related to that ones, it means represent what means for them. Results of all these interviews were done following the Abric’s technique. In this technique Abric divides the chart in four different parts in which shows how is represented the mental representation, The first one (in the upper left) is the most important and the word that is repeated in almost the interviews. The second word (in the upper right) has a high frequency but it has a low importance for the student. The third word (at the bottom left) has a low frequency but it has a high importance for the student and finally the last word (at the bottom right) has low frequency and low importance for the student. In this research, the chart is divided in three parts because students wrote three words for each one (Class with technology, Motivation, Internet, class without technology and improve) With this approach, I organized all the answers of the students in different charts showing interesting results about what students think about the uses of computer technology. Using a chart that they had to do in the interview, the conclusions are:
1. Class with Technology: • Is more interesting 17
• •
Easier Computers.
In this chart, the results of all the interviews are that for them they related class with technology with a class more interesting, more dynamical in other words that helps to focus on the class. Then the second word that is high frequency is easier that means that for them is easier to understand a class when teacher uses technology and finally students relate class with technology with computers, it means the uses of internet, power points or another program that helps students to understand better what teacher explains in the class.
High Importance
Low Importance
Is more interesting
Easier
High Frequency
Computer
Low Frequency
2. Motivation:
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• • •
Help Stimulate Funnier
In this case students relate motivation as help for them. In this case Help means make easier or facilitates the understanding when they are learning, in this case the understanding of what teacher explains in the class. Also, the second word that has high frequency is stimulate, relating to computer technology they feel more stimulate if teacher uses a different tool (computer technology) that stimulate students to focus and to pay more attention in the class. And finally the last word that is related to motivation is funnier, this mean that if the class is motivated is because is funnier and students like to be in an environment that is comfortable and funny.
High Importance
Low Importance
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Help
Stimulate
High Frequency
Funnier Low Frequency
The majority of students relate internet especially with 3. Internet: • • • Information Communication Entertainment information it means that for them, internet is a tool to search information that can help in many things and also show that students are autonomous because they find by their own extra information that help to improve their English. In the case of learning English, internet helps students to give a variety of information that improves their knowledge in the language. The second word is Communication; this means that student relate internet to a way of communication with different people interchange different customs, cultures, etc. In the case of learning a language, internet help students to communicate in another language in this case English. Finally the third word that is related to internet is Entertainment (videos, listen music from internet, watch movies, photos, etc) so, this is because the majority of students interviewed are teenagers so for them this is another reason why they like to use internet.
High Importance
Low Importance
High Frequency
Information
Communication
Entertainment
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Low Frequency
4. Class without technology: Students in this case relate class without technology with boring, • • • Boring Not motivating Don’t easy to understand they think this because they feel not motivating in the class that is the second interpretation of students and finally don’t easy to understand that is the last word so all these words are related because using computer technology motivates students to participate and to focus more in the class, and help students also to understand better what teacher does in the class.
High Importance
Low Importance
High Frequency Boring Not Motivating
Don’t easy to understand 5. Improve: • • • Better Self Improvement Achieve goals
Low Frequency
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In this case, students relate improve with better, this means that be better or to progress in a good way in all the skills. Another word related to self improvement is also self improvement, this mean to be a better student and finally achieve goals. This means that improving skills, students can achieve goals. These goals are basically have good grades in the classroom.
High Importance
Low Importance
High Frequency Better Self Improvement
Achieve Goals
High Frequency
6.2. Questionnaires: After handing out 50 questionnaires to students from level intermediate 04 to advance 6 we can say:
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•
Students think that a traditional class it means doing activities in the classroom like role plays, posters, etc are more interesting than studying with computer technologies. As we can see (graphic Nº01), so we can prove that students can do activities without depending in computer technologies. Nevertheless, in the graphic Nº02, students said that computer technology motivates to get involve in learning activities, so this mean that we can stimulate students using computer technologies to focus on the activity that they have to do in class (role play, design posters, etc) and not necessarily use computer technologies to do the activity that teacher has to do in class.
Graphic Nº01 “A Traditional class (some activities or games that teacher makes in classroom) is more interesting than studying with computer technology like internet, games in computer, etc.” In this case, they have to use a scale: Strongly Disagree A The results are: o Strongly Disagree: o Slightly Disagree: o Slightly Agree: o Strongly Agree: 06 10 22 12
10
Slightly Disagree B
Slightly Agree C
Strongly Agree D
25
20
15
Strongly Disagree Slightly Disagree Slightly Agree Strongly Agree
Graphic Nº02
23
The use of computer technology in the classroom… Motivates to get more involved in learning activities: The results are:
20 25
o Strongly Disagree: o Slightly Disagree: o Slightly Agree: o Strongly Agree: •
02 05 21
15
10
Strongly Disagree Slightly Disagree Slightly Agree Strongly Agree
22
0
On the other hand, students think the use of computer technology in the classroom is an effective tool to improve all skills (see graphic Nº03). So this means students can acquire new knowledge using computer technologies as part of the process of learning English. So, we can prove that students can improve their skills using effectively the computer technology. And as a result, the use of computer technology as a help for students to improve skills (graphic Nº03). However as we can see in the graphic Nº 04, students improve more in listening skill for the reason that this skill is for them the most difficult that they have to deal when they learn English.
Graphic Nº03 The use of computer technology in the classroom…
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Is an effective tool to improve all skills (speaking, writing, reading, listening) The results are:
35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Strongly Disagree Slightly Disagree Slightly Agree Strongly Agree
24
o Strongly Disagree: o Slightly Disagree: o Slightly Agree: o Strongly Agree:
0 02 12 36
Graphic Nº04 Computer technology helps in
30 25 20
learning English? The results are: o Strongly Disagree: 02 17 29 02
15 10 5 0
Strongly Disagree Slightly Disagree Slightly Agree Strongly Agree
o Slightly Disagree: o Slightly Agree: o Strongly Agree:
Graphic Nº 04 What Skill do you practice more when you use computer technology?
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Listening ______ Speaking ______ The results are:
35
Reading: _______ Writing: _______
Listening: Speaking: Reading: Writing:
33 06 07 04
30 25 20 15 10 5 Listening Speaking Reading Writing
VII. CONCLUSION:
Finally, we can say that computer technology can improve and motivate students, according to the results of the interviews and questionnaires, is possible to say first: • Computer technology improves students in the process of learning for the reason that student feel they progress and acquire new knowledge when they use this tool (when they go to multimedia lab or when they are on internet).
However, it will be interesting to do another research problem to see, what kind of software students like to study with? And what the distracter are for them when students use computer technology. For the reason that these questions were not too much developed in this project.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY • • Lewis, Gordon. 2003. The internet and Young Learners. Alan Maley Warschave, Mark, Shetzer Heidi and Meloni Christine. 2006. Internet for English Teaching. Longman publisher
Web pages: • Language Learning Technology: http://llt.msu.edu./ o Hoven Debra. 1999. A Model For Listening And Viewing Comprehension In Multimedia Environments http://llt.msu.edu/vol3num1/hoven/index.html o Maja Grgurović and Volker Hegelheimer. 2008. Help Options And Multimedia Listening: Students’ Use Of Subtitles And The Transcripthttp://llt.msu.edu/vol11num1/grgurovic/default.html o Ramírez Dolores Verdugo and Belmonte Isabel Antonio. 2007. Using Digital Stories To Improve Listening Comprehension With Spanish Young Learners Of English http://llt.msu.edu/vol11num1/ramirez/default.html o Roever Cartern. 2001. Web-Based Language Testing //llt.msu.edu/vol5num2/roever/default.html
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o Wagner, Elvis. 2006. Using Digital stories to Improve listening comprehension with Spanish young learners of English http://llt.msu.edu/vol11num1/wagner/default.html
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Bernard, Larry and Mills Michael. 2006. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/submitted/etd-09012001132144/unrestricted/01chapter1.pdf • Blake, J. Robert.2003. Technology, Multimedia, And Second Language Learning http://www.mhhe.com/socscience/Passport/spotlight.htm Bruce, Doug and Bird, Angela. 2006. Information and Communication Technologies http://wwwfp.education.tas.gov.au/english/technology.htm
Connor, Dixie. 2008. Better Students through Technology http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech149.shtml Dyck, Brenda. 2008. Using Technology to Bridge Understanding For Foreignand Second-Language Learners http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/columnists/dyck/dyck027.shtml • G. Jeffrey MacDonald. 2007. Computers are a drag of learning
http://www.csmonitor.com/2004/1206/p11s01-legn.html • Kern, Richard and Warschauer, Mark. 2000. Theory and Practice of
Network-Based Language Teaching http://www.gse.uci.edu/person/markw/nblt-intro.html Martinea Pamela. 2008. Teaching with technology
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http://www.csba.org/NewsAndMedia/Publications/CASchoolsMagazine/200 8/Fall/InThisIssue/TechMain.aspx • National Board of Employment, Education and Training
http://www.dest.gov.au/NR/rdonlyres/09800E13-5FBC-4F47-BF251D2D33778B5C/3972/96_31.pdf • Poole, Bernie.2006. What Every Teacher Should Know About
Technology http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/columnists/poole/poole015.shtml • Randall Davis. 2006. Utopia or Chaos? The Importance of technology
on language teaching. http://iteslj.org/Articles/Davis-ImpactOfTechnology.html • Rice, Kerry. 2007. The Internet as an Instructional Tool
http://edtech.boisestate.edu/elearn/ • Schurm, Lynne.2005. Technology as a Tool to Support Instruction
http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech/tech004.shtml • Paul.2008. The Role of Technology in Education http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Role-of-Technology-in-Education&id=1745666 • Wang, Li. 2005. The Advantages of Using Technology in Second Steninger,
Language Education http://www.thejournal.com/articles/17296 • Web Stany. 2004. ICT In Language Teaching In 6 Points
http://www.itiscannizzaro.net/Ianni/articles/rationale.htm
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•
Webb Allen. 2007. Teaching English Using the New Technologies
http://homepages.wmich.edu/~acareywe/engl5970.html • Ryan, Richard and Dec,i Classic Edward,” Intrinsic and and New
extrinsic
motivations:
Definitions
Direction” 2000. University of Rochester http://inrhode.uri.edu Harackiewicz, Judith M
APPENDIX
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APPENDIX N°01 QUESTIONNAIRE
Age: _______________ Gender: Female: _____ Male : ____
Cycle: _______
When on line learning you like to use: (1 to 6) number the following proposition from 1 to 6, 1 being what you believe to be the most important and 6 the least
Videoconferencing ____ _______ Discussion lists _____
Blog _________
e – mail
Chat _________
standard Exercises_______
First Part
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Using the scale provided, please put a check (√) to say how you agree or disagree with the following statements regarding the use of computer technology in the classroom and multimedia labs: Strongly Disagree A Slightly Disagree B Slightly Agree C Strongly Agree D
1. - A Traditional class (some activities or games that teacher makes in classroom) is more interesting than studying with computer technology like internet, games in computer, etc. A _____ B____ C____ D____
The use of computer technology in the classroom… 2. Promotes the development of communication skills (e.g., writing and presentation skills). A _____ B____ C____ D____
3. Is an effective tool to improve listening) A _____ B____
all skills ( speaking, writing , reading,
C____
D____
4. Motivates to get more involved in learning activities. A _____ Explain Why: 32 B____ C____ D____
……………………………………………………………………………. ……………………………………………………………………………. ……………………………………………………………………………. ……………………………………………………………………………. ……………………………………………………………………………. …………………………………………………………………………….
5. Computer technology helps in learning English?
A _____ Second part
B____
C____
D____
1. - What Skill do you practice more when you use computer technology? Listening ______ Speaking ______ Reading: _______ Writing: _______
2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using computer technology in learning English? Advantages Disadvantages
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APPENDIX N°02 MENTAL REPRESENTATIONS
Class with technology Motivation Internet
Class without technology Improve
APPENDIX N°03 INTERVIEWS Wednesday 25th, February 2009 • First Interview:
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Me
: Hi how are you? What about your oral exam.
Student 1: It was good, but I need to practice more. Me : ok, now, I would like to help me ok, , now I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately ok that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher…. Student 1: oh ok, no problem. (Then I give the paper and she writes all the words that comes to her mind) Student 1: I finished, can I go to my sit? Me: Wait a minute please, I have to two questions for you and then you can go ok? Student1: Ok no problem Me: My first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student1: Yes, because internet or multimedia lab are more dynamics and because is easier to do the examples Me: ok, good, now my second question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 1: yes, I think that computer technology presents the things easier than when a teacher presents without using anything related to computer 35
Me: ok, thank you and now you can go to your sit. • Second Interview: Me: Hi, how was your exam? Student 2: hmm, I think that it was easy, I studied so, I did not have problems. Me: ok good, now I don’t know if you can help with my research… Student 2: ok, no problem, but it’s going to be quick no? Me: Of course not more that 5 minutes. Now I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately ok that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher…. Student 2: ok, I got it (Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind) Student: Ok, I finished something else? Me: Oh yes, I have two questions for you, and then you are free…. Students: ok, but be hurry please, because I need to go. Me: Ok, my first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab?
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Student 2: oh yes, because computer technology help me to study better English and help me to be better in all the skills especially in listening and reading , because using videos or reading instructions help me a lot to focus on that skills. Me: ok, now my second question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 2: Yes, because when a teacher doesn’t use computer technology, the class is boring and too dynamical, and in my case, I start to do other things and don’t pay attention to what teacher says. Me: oh really, so what things do you do when you don’t pay attention to the teacher? Student 2: well, exactly, talk with my friend or play with my cell phone. Me: oh, well, that is all, you can go, you are free now. Student 2: bye. • Third Interview: Me: Hi, how was your oral exam? Student 3: Actually, it was kind of difficult, because I didn’t study, and because my essay was from internet and teacher noticed that. Me: Oh really, well you have to be a little more responsible and original when you are doing an essay. Ok. Now I don’t know if you can help with my research…is about computer technology. Student 3: ok no problem.
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Me: I am going to give you a word and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately ok. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher…. Student 3: … as a dictator…. Me: yes that is a good example… (Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind) Student3: That’s all no? Me: No, you have to answers two question and that is all…. Student 3: ok no problem Me: Well, My first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 3: Yes, because it helps me to study better the language and because computers makes easier the things to learn English. Me: ok, now my second question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 3: Of course yes, but especially is because when we use internet for example we are more concentrate because is more dynamic, games, and for how they present the exercises to practice. Also, when teacher uses videos from internet, helps a lot to focus on the class. Me: oh, that is a good answer, so that’s all, thank you very much… bye. Student 3: bye, see you 38
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Fourth Interview: Me: Hi! How was your oral exam?, It seems that was easy for you no?. Student 4: oh yes, I feel a little nervous but then I felt secure. Me: ok, good for you, now I don’t know if you can help with my research…is about computer technology. It’s going to take no more than 5 minutes. Student 4: Ok, no problem, I have a lot of time. Me: well, I am going to give you a word and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately ok. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher…. Student 4: ok that is easy…. (Then I give the paper and she wrote all the words that comes to her mind) Me: hmm I see that you finish really faster than the other students… good. Now I have two questions for you and that is all. Student 4: Ok, no problem Me: Good, my first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 4: That is true; because I can study better and I can show my skills especially in vocabulary 39
Me: And, why vocabulary?... Student 4: because that is the best thing that I can do it, and because I like to learn a lot of vocabulary. Me: Ok, now my second question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 4: Yes, because I pay more attention to the class and because it’s more interesting to use another material that we can work, you know, it is more dynamical, how the exercises are presented. And of course when teacher uses power points or something similar, I think that is more organized and easier to understand. Me: Ok, thank you very much for your helping, that’s all. Student 4: ok, bye. • Fifth Interview: Me: hi! What about your oral exam? You took a lot of time with the teacher. Student 5: Oh yes, my topic was really interesting so I talked many things about that. Me: Oh, that is good, now I would to help me with my research project is about computer technology. Don’t worry; this interview is going to take no more than five minutes. Student 5: oh really?, good because I need to do many things.
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Me: ok no problem, now I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately ok that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher…. (Then I give the paper and she wrote all the words that comes to her mind) Student 5: Ok that is all right? Me: Of course yes but you have to answer two questions and then you can go. Students 5: ok no problem Me: My first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 5: Yes, because I can study better and also because I notice my mistakes and that help me a lot. Me: Ok and my last question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 5: Yes because it is not boring, also because I learn new things that are not in the books and finally because it’s more interesting when teacher explain something, especially grammar, using internet. Me: Oh really? Teacher uses internet to explain grammar? Student 5: Yes, and that is interesting because help me a lot and because, sometimes grammar is no too easy.
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Me: oh ok, well that’s all and thank you very much for your patience. Student 5: ok bye. • Sixth Interview: Me: Hi! How was your oral exam? Student 6: that was quite difficult because I was thinking in other things that I have to do in my house. Me: Oh ok, well, Can you help with my research project. It is jus for few minutes? Student 6: oh ok is going to be easy right? Me: of course yes, now I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately ok that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher…. Student 6: ok. (Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind) Students 6: ok something else or you need my help? Me: of course yes, I have two questions for you and then you can go. My first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab?
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Student 6: Yes because helps me to learn more, also to be better student and finally because It’s more easy to understand and quicker Me: ok, now my second question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 6: oh yes, in some cases it is possible because we participate more, and focus on the lesson. Because generally, we don’ pay too much attention when he writes something on the board because its too boring and difficult to understand. Me: oh, well I see that you are busy, you can go, thank you very much. Student 6: Ok no problem. • Seventh Interview: Me: Hi, How was your oral exam? I suppose that it was good Student 7: Yes of course, why not? Me: ok, now I would like to help me in my research project that is about computer technology Student 7: ok no problem, is going to be easy right? Me: yes, you don’t have to be worry, it’s going to be easy, Now, I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately ok that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher….is clear? Student 7: yes, no problem
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(Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind) Me: Now, I have two questions for you, my first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 7: Yes, because I can be better in listening and be a better student for example when I go to multimedia lab I practice a lot of exercises that I can not do it in the book. Me: ok, my second question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 7: I think that using computer technology makes me focus on more in the class, it is more interesting, I feel more involve in the task that teacher give us Me: Why more involve? Student 7: because I am more concentrate and pay more attention and participate more when teacher asks questions. Me: ok, that is all, thank you very much for your participation. Friday, 27th February 2009 • First Interview: Me: hi, how was your oral exam, I see that you wrote a lot of things in your essay, and I say also that teacher made a lot of questions. Student 8: Yes, my topic was kind of interesting and I investigate a lot of things. 44
Me: ok, good for you, now It is possible to help me please? It is for my research project about computer technology. Student 8: ok No problem. Me: Well, , I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately ok that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher….any question? Student 8: No, it’s clear for me, no problem. (Then I give the paper and she wrote all the words that comes to her mind) Me: Now, I have two questions for you and then you can go my first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 8: Yes because I can study better, you know is easier, and because I have better results in my exams, so that makes me feel good. Me: An interesting answer, now my last question is do you thinks that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 8: Yes, because stimulate to focus and pay more attention to the class, especially when teacher uses power points or when he shows some pictures from internet, that helps a lot, when I have a problem with a vocabulary, teacher shows pictures to make understand better Me: ok, thank you very much, that it’s all
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Student 8: Good luck with your research…. Me: thanks.., • Second Interview: Me: Hi, how was your oral exam? It seems that you were a little nervous. Student 9: yes, because sometimes, I forget some words when I speak especially when is an exam. Me: Ok, no problems relax, this is not an exam, is just an interview, now I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately ok that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher…. (Then I give the paper and she wrote all the words that comes to her mind) Me: Now I have two questions for you and then you are free. Ok Student 9: ok, but sure that is not an exam? Me: No, is not an exam is just an investigation, no more. Ok, my first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 9: Yes, because I can be better student and study better English Is easier, understandable and present a lot of exercises that we can practice.
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Me: well, and my last question, do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 9: Of course yes, because it is more dynamic, and because we participate more in the tasks that teacher does in the class and because we don’t sleep in class. Me: Do you sleep in class when the class is not motivating? Student 9: Yes, because the schedule is really heavy for us, you know come here after the dinner, is not good Me: ok, thanks that is all. • Third Interview: Me: how was your exam? It was difficult or easy. Student 10: Oh it was normal, not too difficult and not too easy. Me: ah ok, so I don’t know if you can help with my research about computer technology, is not going to take a lot of time. Student 10: ok no problem. Me: I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher…. (Then I give the paper and she wrote all the words that comes to her mind) Student 10: I finished that it’s all or you need something more. 47
Me: Yes, actually I have two questions for you and then you can go-. My first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 10: yes, because computer technology as for example when I go to multimedia lab presents a lot of exercises that I can practice, so, that helps me a lot and I can study better English practicing grammar, vocabulary and listening for example. Me: ok, now my last question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 10: logically yes, because that encourage me to learn more and more, and because it is more interesting and comfortable to see a teacher using slides or practicing some exercises from internet that helps to make understand better Me: Ok, that is all, thank you for your patience and good luck for the next course of advanced 03 Student 10: thank you, I say the same for you… • Fourth Interview: Me: Hi! Sorry for this inconvenience, It’s going to be quick, is for my research project from the methodology course, Student 11: ok no problem Me: Well, I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher…. 48
Student11: But, if don’t know what to say? Me: Take it easy, the words that I am going to give you are easy to relate to some thing that you like. (Then I give the paper and she wrote all the words that comes to her mind) Me: Well, these two questions and we finish. My first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 11: well, I think yes because, I can study better, it means practice more exercises, that helps me to be also a good student in the class. Of course using adequately the multimedia lab or internet because in some cases we can focus in another things Me: ok, now my last question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 11: yes because, that helps to understand better is an effective class in other words for visual students helps a lot because is easier you know for example designs of how the activity is presented by the teacher. Me: ok, thanks very much, that is all • Fifth Interview: Me: Hi, well thank you to be here, as you listen I think, this interview is for my research project from the methodology course. So, I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher. 49
Student 12: Ok, is going to be easy right? Me: You don’t have to worry about that. Is “Papallita” (Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind) Me: Ok now, I have two questions for you and then you can go. My first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 12: Yes, because that exercises from multimedia lab and internet are very dynamical and useful because help me to learn the language better Me: ok now my last question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 12: yes, because is easier to understand, because when teacher doesn’t use computer technology, we don’t pay attention to the class and it is more boring especially in this schedule that is really heavy. Me: ok that is all thank you very much for your participation. • Sixth Interview: Me: Hi, well this is going to be quick, it’s not going to take a lot of time. So, I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher.
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Student 13: ok, but is easy right? Me: Yes, you don’t have to worry. (Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind) Me: Now I have two more questions and finish ok. My first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 13: Yes, because when I studied in multimedia lab or go to internet to study, my grades are better, so I like to practice more and more. Me: Ok and my last question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 13: Yes because teacher makes the class funnier than when he uses just the board, which is not motivating, it is interesting the class also when he plays music or videos, which makes the class more dynamical. Me: ok thank you very much, that is all. • Seventh Interview: Me: Hi, how was your oral exam? Easy, difficult, terrible or good Student 14: Well, sincerely kind of difficult because I didn’t study Me: well, you don’t have to be worry, you will be in the same situation the next month, and in that case you are going to study. Well, I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately that is for each word. For example,
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the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher. Ok any question… Student 14: no, by the moment not. (Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind) Me: Now I have two questions and you are free to go to study if you wish. Student 14: Yes of course, to study. Me: Ok, my first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 14: Yes, because that helps me to learn more vocabulary, and because in multimedia lab has a lot of exercises that we can practice and to be a better student. Me: Now the last question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class? Student 14: Yes, because it is more interesting to focus on the lesson, there are more games so in my case I like games and I participate a lot if teacher present games. Sometimes, teachers have to use new tools to stimulate students and using computer technology I think that is a good way to stimulate students. Me: ok, that is a good answer, that is all, thank you very much. • Eighth Interview: Me: Hi, you are the last one, how was your oral exam? 52
Student 15: It was good, but you know you are not going to have too much time; the bell is going to ring in 3 minutes. Me: ok no problem, this is not going to take a lot of time. Well, I am going to give you five words and then you have to write in a paper all the words that come to your mind immediately that is for each word. For example, the words “Teacher”, then you have to give me words related to teacher. (Then I give the paper and he wrote all the words that comes to his mind) Me: Now I have two questions and then you can go to enjoy that you finish this cycle. So my first question is do you think that you improve your English when you use computer technology as for example internet or when you go to multimedia lab? Student 15: Yes, I think that using computer technology as internet or multimedia lab help to improve our skills, especially in grammar and listening. Me: Ok my last question is do you think that computer technology is more motivating than a traditional class Student 15: yes, because it’s obvious when teacher uses internet for explain something , we as students fell more involve in theme, so that stimulate to pay more attention to the class and to be more concentrate on what we have to study. Me: ok, that is all, thank you very much and enjoy your vacations, bye.
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