Innovation in Language Learning

The use of educational technology in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) for language learning has been and continues to be at the forefront of best practices as educators strive to build a culture that fosters innovation and revolutionizes the classroom experience. School leaders are recognized for their ability to showcase expanded and creative technology building momentum to support educators who recognize that the power of technology implementation goes beyond use “to enhance instruction” and holds the potential to change education. The increasing role of technology has impacted the learning environment and challenged educators to change teaching and learning in their classrooms as we develop strategic objectives capitalizing on the technologies that work best for varying scenarios. Classrooms in the 21st century are undergoing a rapid transformation into innovative learning environments that are connected, flexible, and collaborative.

This paper features a showcase of best practices that hold a number of opportunities. Implemented in ICT, they are recognized as innovative and showing digital promise building momentum for teaching and learning in 21^st century classrooms. To be effective, educators have a responsibility to explore and incorporate digital tools in ICT.  Ada West School District in the State of Idaho, USA, has been a leader in the use of educational technology and ICT since the advent of personal computing.  21^st century classrooms designed by creative educators are featured showcasing the integration of digital devices where educators have a commitment to create a “rotational” model of instruction. The innovation and change is about the teaching and learning process itself. Through the use of digital devices students are actively engaged in their learning and are working on meaningful, real-world projects in which they apply their learning.  What one observes is students working at the evaluation, analysis, and synthesis levels of learning.  The educator is the facilitator and classrooms are designed and equipped for this innovative model of instruction. Extensive professional development and support linked to training resources for a number of different devices is offered to classroom teachers for their use of technology to enhance instruction.  The capstone for this sustainable approach is for educators to hold a “tech expo” where students show off their work and the tools used to create it.

An overview of digital tools for ICT and best practices are discussed that allow educators to leverage their new ideas and demonstrate the breadth of quality as they change their approach to teaching, transform the classroom experience and boost learning outcomes. The capacity and technology that results in a digital learning environment extends far beyond the traditional classroom. According to Dr. Linda Clark, Superintendent of West Ada School District, “These are the seeds from which widespread innovation will grow.”  In summary, innovative ICT practices are crucial for success in the transformation of the 21^st century classroom in the new millennium as students and educators pursue their goals and embrace the demands of our rapidly evolving and expanding global society.