Chapter 5 TPCK World Languages

I appreciate that Van Olphen mentions the use of email and the internet (online exhibitions and such) as ways modern world language teachers can reach their students and integrate technology. Though simple, rich experiences and serious engagement of students will occur if one utilizes these technologies in the proper manner. These are simple ways to encourage the use of technology in our classrooms with teachers who may not be comfortable with technology.

When I think of Mt. Blue High School and technology the teachers whose names first pop into my head outside of the English department are world language teachers. Two modern world language teachers earned their masters degrees with a focus on technology, and one is a half time technology integrator at the high school. These three teachers all are pushing for seamless integration of technology in their classrooms and all classrooms at MBHS.

I know that they are currently using the MacBooks for students to record oral portions of exams. I no longer see teachers in the hall questioning students and taking notes. Modern language teachers now ask students to record themselves on the MacBooks and upload recordings to wikis. The teacher then listens to these and scores these at home. The speaking portions of tests used to take days to administer. They now take one class period.

These teachers impact my classroom as the shift of the school culture toward one that integrates technology has been successful because of these educators. I know that students who come to me from their classes will have knowledge pertaining to imovie, garage band, and wikis. A huge weight is lifted as these students will aid others in my room with technology troubleshooting so there is not a huge line waiting for me to answer technology questions.

It is mentioned (yet again) that teachers need the proper training so that they may feel comfortable using technology in classrooms. It was not lost on me that Van Olphen states that Krashen found in a 1981 and 1982 study that “adults acquire language structures in a predictable order provided that they are exposed to comprehensible input and within a low anxiety environment” (p. 111). Many adults (many people for that matter) acquire technology skills in the same manner. They need the technology to be straightforward and they need an environment that has little stress.