Remember not that long ago, when we worried that technology would distract students and take over teachers’ jobs? It is safe to say those predictions have not come to fruition. Instead, technology is used in classrooms all over the world to enhance learning and engage students, who themselves are digital natives.
Today, everything from instruction to planning to homework assignments can be created and completed online. In addition, the online environment allows students to be more collaborative with peers outside of the school building. Technology also allows students to access information anywhere at any time, meaning they can finish those last minute research projects without worrying about library hours.
What is more, technology makes learning more accessible to students who need additional support. That is an important component of using tech in the classroom.
Let us take a look at the four domains of language to see how technology can enhance instruction for ESL students: