Quality and Innovation in Language Learning and Teaching
Muna Matter Aljohani, University of Tabuk (Saudi Arabia)
Abstract
In the new information age, an increasing number of ICT tools are available. They have great potential for teaching and learning although the majority of the tools are not initially designed for educational purposes. Teachers must have the competency to find and select proper ICT tools for their teaching and learning needs and thereafter effectively apply them into the instructional process. The current changing environment in which business operates has increased, the need of better ways of organizing and coordinating work’s training. The social dimension inside the traditional face-to-face training programs is important and must be included (Wang 2009).
The rapid development of emerging technologies has resulted in a number of information and communication technologies (ICT) tools available. Language Teachers must have the competency to choose and integrate proper tools into teaching and learning. Over the years, a number of conceptual models have been developed to guide the process of ICT integration. In this research we will introduce the most famous models used in e-training in order to investigate the new trends in collaborative learning which can support teacher e-training.
Recently, E-Collaboration has been a new trend within E-Learning. E-Collaboration is defined as “any kind of group collaboration that takes place mainly in a virtual environment”. E-Collaboration is becoming more accepted and expected not only in online learning, but also in organisational training and meeting. The practice of using small group settings in many training programs creates a natural candidate for online collaborative learning. Managers and employers can meet and share their work experiences with others seated away from them in an online environment. Training and meeting in various geographical locations is costly, and many organisations might face decreasing budget and human resources (Turani & Ashrlouf 2009).
The present study will try to answer the following questions:
1 - What are the different models of ICT integration in teaching and learning?
2 - What are the innovative tools of ICT integration in language teaching\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\learning?
3 - What are the quality standards of English language programs?
Importance of the study :
1 - This study will highlight the most modern models and tools in social media and collaborative learning communities.
2 - Much evidence indicates that technology has great potential to increase learners’ motivation, link learners to various information sources, support collaborative learning, and allow teachers more time for facilitation in classrooms (Moallem 2003; Roblyer, Edwards, & Havriluk 2004; Wilson & Lowry 2000; Wang & Woo 2007). Furthermore, this research will add more clarification for this point.
3 - This paper will be a supportive guide for teachers and learners on quality standards of English language and the innovative tools for integration ICT in language learning and teaching.
Keywords |
ICT, language teaching and learning, models of ICT, Quality standards of English language programs |