EGBERT Ch. 9. Limitations, Caveats, and Challenge
Which of the limitations, caveats, and challenges with regards to computer assisted language learning apply to your current (or future) classrooms? How could these be overcome?
In my workforce ESL class we do not have access to computers. Most of my students are computer illiterate, but would like to learn how to use computers. My students take ESL classes in their duty hours which is a great idea on part of UTSA, however, it also limits the time and resources that we can use in the classroom.
What I would like to do is for my students to familiarize themselves with what they can do with, around, and through the computer. It would be nice to take a laptop to class and just show them about the wealth of information and ESL resources that it has to offer. I tell them that some public libraries not only offer free computer use, but also have free or very inexpensive computer classes. Well, let’s hope that I can do something about it. I might be able to
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3 comments:
Hi Rita,
I think for older learners wanting to learn how to use the computer is half the battle. I think dometimes older learners feel they can't learn the technology and are sommewhat resistant to learning. Michael and I had an exchange of comments earlier in the course about using coputers in adult classrooms and it seems that overcoming the computer illiteracy of the students could be problematic in terms of the time and access necessary to teach some computer basics. I do feel however that if the students are willing to learn it may well be worth the effort.
Hello Rita,
Your example shows again that minority or ELLs have less or no access to technology resources compared to mainstream students. We as teachers are trying to be helpful by pointing out public resources students can use, but I think education administrators need to make top down decisions on how to increase the limited access of technology, especially in schools that have a lot of minority populations.
Rita,
The main library offers free computer class. They also offer classes in spanish. You can get their schedule on line at san antonio library and click main library. There are some other libraries in town that offers free computer bilingual classes. I hope this info. helps.
Rosa
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