Intructions with Technologies for Middle School Classrooms

Technology is very much part of language learning throughout the world at all different levels. We are as likely to find it in the primary sector as much as in adult education. Language and technology is one of the subjects studied within the broader area of Language and Social Contexts. Anywhere the language comes in contact with information technology languages needs and it's organized so that it can be handled and processed by computational means. This often requires broad knowledge not only about linguistics, but also about computer science and related fields. There are so many courses or institutions that exploit technology in teaching language, especially English. For example, Teaching with Technology Certification is an introduction to using computers and mobile devices for education. Goals addressed include competency of online tools for teaching, creating ways to collaborate, curate, present and implement online resources into a curriculum, and knowledge of online safety procedures and conduct codes for students and teachers.

Why teach with technology? Technology, when used appropriately, can help make the English and language arts classroom a site of active learning and critical thinking and further student connections with the past. Teachers can use technology to enable students to meet people of different cultures, explore ancient and modern worlds, do authentic primary-source research, problem-solve through inquiry-based activities, and much more. Technology can be used to enable students to explore fundamental curriculum issues and answer core questions. Students can use the Internet, electronic databases and other online sources to gather information. They can use spreadsheets, timelines, and other programs to store, organize, and analyze information. Students can also integrate multimedia desktop publishing, web publishing, video and audio editing, and graphics programs to create and present information in innovative and engaging ways.

However, the use of technology should never be the goal in and of itself, but rather one tool for helping language learners to use the target language in culturally appropriate ways to accomplish authentic tasks. Further, all language learning opportunities whether provided through technology or in a traditional classroom setting, should be standards-based and help develop students' proficiency in the target language through interactive, meaningful, and cognitively engaging learning experiences, facilitated by a qualified language teacher.