Innovation in Language Learning

Demand for online coursework continues to be at the forefront of trends in education and dominates academic discussions. The economic impact of online education is significant and dramatically contributes to changes at institutions of higher education as they reassess their goals and philosophies. A myriad of programs and online opportunities support this mode of teaching and reinforce self-directed learning strategies and online platforms. It is crucial to leverage exemplary strategies, capturing and sharing cutting-edge experiences that lead to quality courses and student success. A key component of these endeavors is developing and utilizing state of the art technology and coursework, while incorporating outstanding resources and methods to reach educators and students. High-quality technology infrastructure and timely support for online learning platforms is essential to ensure a level of confidence for educators.

The complex and diverse needs of English Language Learners (ELLs) require educators to engage students and develop online best practices that provide high levels of student achievement. Educators must develop multi-dimensional technologies to address the specific needs of these students. The pedagogical potential to enhance teaching and learning for linguistically diverse students is central to goals and objectives of online course design. At the university level, students are requesting online and blended learning. University educators are working to develop new online, asynchronous, courses as well as convert face-to-face traditional courses to online and hybrid platforms.

This paper will discuss design, digital content, and implementation techniques for online course development and delivery. Critical issues and practices for ELLs and educators of ELL students will be explored including strategies for aligning course content and online platforms. A demonstration of methods and lesson components along with current approaches in course design will be shared. Content area, particularly Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields, will also be addressed to emphasize the importance of cross disciplinary and interdisciplinary learning that is essential for ELL students. Incorporation of ICT in education at all levels is tantamount to success as education is transformed for 21^st century learners with high expectations for interactive instructional technologies.