Journal 1: Technology Benefits and Challenges for Teachers

Technology Benefits and Challenges for Teachers

As an EFL teacher at a vocational college with talkative and energetic A1-A2 level students, I anticipate both benefits and challenges associated with using technology in the classroom. One benefit is that technology can enhance student engagement and interactivity. For example, I can use online vocabulary games and interactive quizzes on Babbel and Pili Pop to make the lessons more engaging and enjoyable.

However, a challenge could be managing their excitement and ensuring that technology is used purposefully for language learning rather than becoming a distraction. My students are easily distracted by notifications, social media, or unrelated online content, diverting their attention from focused language learning tasks. So it is important for me to establish clear guidelines and strategies to minimize distractions and ensure that technology is used purposefully for language learning.

For my students, the benefits of using technology in the classroom are vast. They can access online language learning platforms to practice listening and speaking skills independently. Additionally, they can utilize language learning apps on their smartphones, such as Duolingo or Quizlet, to reinforce vocabulary and grammar. My students are also fans of HelloTalk, a language exchange app that connects language learners from around the world. My students can practice their English skills by chatting with native speakers through text, voice messages, or video calls. 

However, a challenge might be the potential overreliance on technology, which could hinder their development of other language skills, such as writing or reading. Technology can provide access to a vast amount of online reading materials, but there is a risk of students solely relying on short, bite-sized texts or summaries. This may inhibit their ability to engage with longer, more complex texts, which are crucial for developing reading comprehension, critical thinking, and vocabulary expansion. So I always try to encourage my students to read physical books, newspapers, or longer online articles that can help balance their exposure to different text types.

When working with others who are not as advanced in using technology, I anticipate the challenge of accommodating different skill levels. Some students may struggle with basic computer operations or navigating online resources. In such cases, I will provide step-by-step instructions, conduct mini-workshops on using specific tools, and pair them with more tech-savvy classmates for peer support. This collaborative approach can empower them to learn from their peers and gradually develop their technological skills.

Dealing with resistance to using technology in the classroom requires understanding their concerns and emphasizing the benefits. I would explain to resistant students that technology can enhance their language learning experience. First, I showcase the benefits of accessing authentic materials through technology such as TED Talks, Newsela, and BBC Learning English so my students can explore real-world content, such as articles, videos, and podcasts, to enhance their language skills and cultural understanding. Second, I emphasize the interactive nature of technology-based activities. I tend to let my students use FluentU and Duolingo at home because they provide an immersive and interactive learning experience through engaging videos and game-like activities. 

I also explain that these interactive activities can make language learning enjoyable and motivating, as they provide immediate feedback and rewards for progress. Last but not least, I use engaging demonstrations and examples to showcase the advantages of technology by engaging them in hands-on activities where they can experience the benefits firsthand, such as practicing pronunciation with voice recognition software or participating in virtual language exchanges on Memrise and FluenU.