Journal+Review+by+Lindsay

__ Journal Review __

This is a journal review that I wrote about the uses of iPads and iPod touches in the ESL classrooms for language learning benefits. Reading the article was interesting to learn what new technological advances are being used in the classrooms.

The Benefits of Having iPods and iPads for ESL students Many schools districts countrywide are using the new advancement of technology to their advantage, specifically in their classrooms. While many teachers do not allow technological devices in the classroom, ESL and ELL teachers in various school districts are actually providing each student with an Ipad or Ipod touch. These devices are being used as dictionaries, translators, voice recorders, etc. The most beneficial part is that the students have the ability to take their iPad or iPod home with them each night to use in afterschool activities, on the bus, or at home. They are constantly developing their language skills outside of the classroom through interaction and the help of their device. The main reason administrators and educators bought these devices was for test scores to become closer and more comparable between the general education students and the ESL students. The nice thing about using iPads and iPod Touches is that there is a variety of tools for the students to use that focus on the development of their English skills. The most popular App for the students to use is the Dictionary. It is so convenient for the students to look up an unknown word while reading books and passages in the classroom. Many apps read the word aloud which is also very beneficial. The author of the article shows other parts of the device that students can use, including the Voice Memo App which allows the ESL teachers to assign the students a passage to read and record at home and then the teacher can upload the recordings to her computer to compare and see progress throughout the year on fluency. One teacher told a story of one of her students who would never speak English in class, in fear of being judged by other kids, yet once he was home he would do all of his recording assignments in English, knowing only the teacher would hear him. Teachers are also assigning papers and presentations on their iPads. Students are writing their autobiographies and other stories and publishing them for their peers to read. As a future Spanish and ESL teacher, I really enjoyed this article and learning how technology is helping the new ESL students better their English language skills and fluency. It is an intimidation time when new immigrants arrive to a different country so having this tool to help make the transition easier is crucial. As a teacher, I would personally support the use of these devices, especially after seeing the effect it has on the students. Learning a second language, at any age, is a difficult and time consuming process and having these tools 24/7 would be very beneficial for all.

http://thejournal.com/articles/2011/05/02/ell-to-go.aspx