Class Worldwide TEFL

New technology in the ClassroomNew technology in the Classroom (61) technology has changed every aspect of human life and the EFL classroom is no exception. Computers, 4th generation smartphones, information search engines, and social networking sites are being used and accessed by more than half the world's population. The world has changed with these new technologies and so must EFL teachers and the EFL classroom. EFL teachers are dealing with technologically savvy students and are often competing for their students' attention with the latest gadgetry. A smart resourceful teacher will intergrade these technologies in his/her teaching method instead of refusing their presence. What is technology of education? technology of education is most simply and comfortably defined as an array of tools that might prove helpful in advancing student learning and maybe measured in how and why individuals behave. This definition implies on the use of technology in the EFL classroom. Types of technology intergraded in the EFL classroom Technological resources are not limited to the ones mentioned in this article, but just to name a few: Computers and internet: computers can be used to demonstrate new lessons and present new material. Along with the use of the internet, it can be used to create a class website which can be used to post assignments and student work, present video games, and provide feedback. Blogs are also popular for maintaining a running dialogue between students and teachers. Interactive white boards: they provide touch control of computer based applications. This not only aids in visual learning, but it is interactive so the students can write, draw, and manipulate images on the interactive white board. Smart phones: they are a growing trend. With the large world of phone applications, many of them are dedicated for educational purposes. These types of applications make it fun and interesting to learn! Benefits and drawbacks Like everything else, technology has its benefits and drawbacks. With careful selection and proper training, these drawbacks can be overcome. Some of the benefits mentioned are: ? Ease of access to course materials. ? student motivation: computer based instruction can give instant feedback and correction. The computer is also patient and non-judgmental, which can give motivation to the student to continue learning. ? Wide participation: the entire class can be involved in the process and is accessible to a wider audience. ? Improved student writing: it is convenient for students to edit their written work on word processors, which can in turn improve their writing. Studies have shown that students are better at critiquing and editing work that is exchanged over a computer network with students they know. ? Subjects made easier to learn: many different types of educational software are designed to help students learn English. ? It broadens individualized instruction and promotes the development of personalized learning plans. students are encouraged to use multimedia components and to incorporate the knowledge they gained in creative ways. As previously stated, there are a few drawbacks when it comes to use of technology in the EFL classroom, such as lack of proper training, lack of access to sufficient quantities of technology, the extra time required for many implementations of technology, and the financial strain of providing these technological materials. It is safe to say that every teacher finds their own way of teaching the course material. There is no right or wrong way. lesson planning has to be adapted to the circumstances of both the teacher and students. A resourceful teacher will use the technology he/she has to its' maximum potential to enhance his/her experience as teacher, and to enhance the students' experience as learners.