Description 

I wrote the Technology Lesson Plan for Language Learning Through Technology TESL 501 in the Fall of 2019. This outcome demonstrates my ability to effectively integrate technology to increase the vocabulary and fluency of L2 students. In spring 2018, I wrote a Resource Evaluation for Dr. Robison's course TESL 525. In it, I summarized the pros and cons of selected online resources to assist L2 students in their pronunciation endeavors. 

Reflection 

Initially, I believed that implementing technology in teaching should be as fundamental as using a PowerPoint presentation to teach grammar concepts (i.e., SVO). Also, exposing the L2 to diverse sites may be intimidating due to the advancement of technology. Honestly, it’s not the students I feel may be overwhelmed and intimidated. It is I. Traditionally, I am a pencil and paper teacher, incorporating colorful PowerPoint presentations and visuals. Those mentioned above were how I was taught during my elementary and secondary schooling. My introduction to technology began during my sophomore year of college. During that time, I learned about technology using Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. What changed my understanding is this course. I researched, interacted, and critiqued several technology apps, and the possibilities are endless. For instance, with Kahoot! Teachers can create a competitive game (SVO) to keep students' attention and create healthy competition among their peers. Some learning websites meet the learning needs of kinesthetic, auditory, visual, and social learners. 

Application

How can I ensure that incorporating technology will meet the L2 learning endeavors of my future L2 students? First, I will discover my student's learning preferences. For instance, do they enjoy using technology in a cooperative group or alone? I would achieve this by creating a Kahoot! Poll asking their preferred learning. I would thoroughly research the best learning programs to incorporate in a Blended Learning classroom, which is the merging of technology “with traditional classroom methods”(Wikipedia contributors, 2024).  Also, it “requires the physical presence of both the teacher and student with some element of student control over time, place, path, or place”(Wikipedia Contributors, 2024). Also, I present learning sites to my class, share the pros and cons, and have the students decide on their preferred sites. Importantly, ask if they prefer all technology or a balance (of pen, paper, and learning websites). Although I have shared my plans, I do not expect this transition to be without challenges. However, through trial and error, I can overcome the intimidation and focus on meeting my student's needs and encourage them (and myself) to be open to advancing their language learning through technology.