The principle idea is that the computer is treated as just another - albeit powerful - learning tool. As such, the computer is not the focus of the lesson - effective English learning is.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: 45 minutes
Here's How:
- Select target structure or function by deciding what students need to focus on considering past lessons and future goals.
- Select computer materials to be used: Are you going to use a program, the Internet or maybe word processing? Choose just one.
- Plan the lesson in the typical four areas: warm-up, introduction of materials, class work, summary. Divide the computer section of the lesson into at least two sections.
- Make sure that you prepare the computer before you enter the classroom. This means loading the computer with the chosen material ahead of time.
- When you begin to use the computer in class, remind students that more experienced computer users should be patient and help less experienced users.
- Students who are not comfortable using computers should be placed with students who are.
- Have students work on the first task. Communication should be encouraged, as working with a computer is a great task for conversation.
- After task is finished, discuss specific language skills and/or objectives with students.
- Have students work on second task and repeat the above.
- Use the computer as a springboard for discussion. For example, ask students explain to other students what they have just read in reading comprehension.
Tips:
- Keep focused objectives in mind. It is extremely easy for students to begin exploring the infinite world at their finger tips and that can be counterproductive.
- Don't insist that students who are not comfortable with computers use them. Let other, more computer savvy, students dominate if necessary.
- Students more comfortable with the computer should be strongly discouraged from using other resources available in the program itself, or in other programs.
What You Need
- Comupter
- Appropriate Software
- Preparation Time
