Posted At : November 24, 2010 5:07 PM
With the kind permission of QATESOL and Leigh Williams, Independent Schools Queensland, we are delighted to share this paper as published in the QATESOL Newsletter, October 2010.
The article discusses education in the 21st century, the availability of mobile devices and the changing attitudes of teachers to the use of these devices for learning.
Independent Schools Queensland (ISQ) have partnered with Learnosity on a 12 month trial using iPod devices with ESL learners. The use of these devices addresses the issue of ensuring adequate student practice coupled with one-to-one teacher guidance. The article tells us how the program has extended learning beyond the classroom in a way that is very engaging to students.
The devices allow students to be part of a supportive framework that allows them to take responsibility for their own learning with the constant and timely guidance of their teacher.
Increased motivation amongst students has been reported, a key factor in the success of any learning experience. Teachers can enjoy improved one-to-one time with students as they can better hear the spoken work of the students outside of a noisy classroom. Personalised feedback is a feature that benefits shy students who may be less confident speaking in front of the class.
The article explains that as the trial continues, the benefits and relevance of these devices are being recognised, not only in the ESL classroom but also across the mainstream curriculum.
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