Methodology of the Teaching of English as a Foreign Language

WHAT IS RESEARCH?

•  careful or diligent search.
• the collecting of information about a particular subject.
• studious inquiry or examination; especially : investigation or experimentation aimed at the discovery and interpretation of facts, revision of accepted theories or laws in the light of new facts, or practical application of such new or revised theories or laws.

What are the most effective methodology for large

classes?

Often when teachers are faced with large classes they begin to worry about how they will teach. It’s tempting to simply let the classes become teacher fronted and turn into lectures. 

If the entire course is like this it’s a bit of a shame, as opportunities for students to practise and use the language are quite limited. In this respect, large classes are viewed as problematic and in a negative light. However, this does not need to be the case. 

Yes, large classes, especially those of 100+, are a challenge but there are many positive aspects to such classes. For us, one of the biggest plusses is the dynamic nature of such classes. With so many students there are lots of opportunities to get people to work together, compare, discuss and benefit from the variety of voices.

Of course, there are practical implications both in terms of arranging activities and issues with things such as photocopying. So, here are a few tips on how to deal with large classes including using reading texts. We go from the easiest to the more challenging.

• Choral drilling
• Using an anecdote
• Group leaders
• Running Dictation

What are the effects of using technology in the

classroom?

Technology in the classroom makes learning more fun

According to the study mentioned above, students prefer technology because they believe that it makes learning more interesting and fun. They especially like laptops and tablets. Subjects that students deem challenging or boring can become more interesting with virtual lessons, through a video, or when using a tablet.

Technology Prepares Students for the Future

CompTIA’s study showed that 9 out of 10 students indicated that using technology in the classroom would help prepare them for the digital future. These 21^st-century skills are essential in order to be successful in this day and age. Jobs that may not have had a digital component in the past, may have one now. Education isn’t just about memorizing facts and vocabulary words, it’s about solving complex problems and being to collaborate with others in the workforce. Ed-tech in the classroom prepares students for their future and sets them up for this increasing digital economy.

Technology Connects with Students

Technology occupies an important place within students’ lives. When they are not in school, just about everything that they do is connected in some way to technology. By integrating technology into the classroom, teachers are changing the way they used to teach (lectures six hours a day) and providing students with the tools that will take them into the 21^st century.

Technology changes by the minute, and as educators we need to keep up with the times in order to best prepare our students for this ever-changing world that we live in. While we just saw how integrating technology into the classroom has its benefits, it’s important to note that traditional learning processes are just as essential. Take time to learn about each element of ed-tech that you will incorporate into your classroom. When you do, you will find that technology can have a profound impact on your students learning.