Innovation in Language Learning

In this digitally advancing age, teaching and learning have become so revolutionized because of the influx of technological innovations in language pedagogy and methodology. This relevance of technology integration causes a significant shift in the paradigm of higher education. As learners become very keen on the power and impact of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and the Internet, educators must also respond to the challenges they entail. This paper is an exploration on the extent of technology use and its impact in the teaching practice and learning experience of English teachers and college students in the Mindanao State University. Gaining an understanding on the impact of ICT integration is beneficial in transforming better education that addresses the challenges of 21st century teaching and learning. This study draws reference on the foundations of Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) as a teaching methodology in the context of the converging aspects of Behaviorism and Constructivism as learning theories. Through the use of cross-sectional surveys and conduct of interviews, significant data from twenty-eight (28) English teachers and five hundred seventy (570) students substantiate the findings of the study. It reveals that 71% of the teacher respondents incorporate ICT use in order to facilitate discussions for classroom interaction and enrichment. They also identify a highly positive evaluation on technology’s role in helping them achieve desired learning objectives. Most of them also recognize the necessity of ICT integration in teaching English for it enables their students to become more interactive and involved in the learning process. Student evaluations also signify more autonomous learning which relates to their dominantly positive perceptions on the usefulness of technology in facilitating learning and providing easy access to references and resources. They expressed appreciation of technology’s assistance in helping them improve in their communication, collaboration, socialization, critical and creative thinking and multimedia skills. They also acknowledge the need for proper management of ICT use in order to address issues on distraction, disinterest and dependence on technology. This study establishes a general implication that the integration of ICT is very relevant in teaching English as a second language. 

Keywords: CALL, ICT Integration, 21^st Century Skills, Language Teaching and Learning;