Abstract This paper recommends the use of internet technology in the classroom. It demonstrates how it benefits both teachers and students, who find their learning sessions more challenging and interesting, by advancing the learning process rapidly through this dynamic information medium. The paper provides an example of the classic elementary school project of pen-pals through e-mail and the gathering of geographical information on their new friend on-line.
From the Paper "Sela (1997) encouraged e-mail activities for EFL students. This method should apply to any level of students all over the world since e-mail reaches multiple community and nationalities.
E-mail offers a new way of learning, which students would mostly like. Compared to conventional mode, which takes time to apply postages and put them through post offices, e-mail would provide speedy, inexpensive, and eye-catching materials. When attempting the e-mail technique to teach EFL classroom, Sela remarked how students enjoy learning on first-hand experience, writing to other friends in other countries, which would write them back directly. They would enjoy reading about other cultures as well as telling learning about their own cultures to people from different nationalities. It is like the classical way of pen-pal activities, only e-mail goes faster; therefore students may expect the reply shortly afterwards."
Abstract This paper reviews and discusses the importance of teaching methods used in theclassroom. The paper focuses on teaching English as a foreign language (EFL)and English as a second language (ESL) students. The paper reviews various listening skills that can be taught to language students to assist them in learning. The paper further discusses the issue of fluency between the teacher and student. The paper also takes a look at the problems relating to academic oral learning in the ESLclassroom.
From the Paper " Other methods of improving student(s) listening skills include tests/quizzes that teachers can use in the classroom. These tests/quizzes can be found in a wide variety of places, especially with the advent of the internet. Many experts (presumably) have created websites that allow for lesson planning by teachers of ESL students that include both written and online quizzes which test for comprehension and improvement by the ESL students. Examples of the types of quizzes available include listening to a customer making a request and taking note of what is wanted, or listening to two people talking about a new job opportunity and get the details about the job offered and even listening to a woman asking a man questions for a survey while taking notes of his answers. These quizzes take into account the daily activities of the individuals 'normally' looking to acquire a second language. Other quizzes test on the listener's ability to recite about a man's trip to a foreign country that he has just returned from, choosing the correct conclusion based on what is heard and a listening guide that gives examples of symbol sounds by using representative words.
There are other methods of teaching ESL students in the classroom with one of the more interesting ways being a use of music to enhance the students learning process."
This paper discuses the experiences of an English Second Language (ESL/EFL) Japanese student as a base for examining language learning strategies, specially the relationships between language, culture and society.
Abstract This paper explains that, because students come with specific purposes for learning, one of the best ways to keep them motivated is to help them feel progress towards their goals, which are identified by interviewing informally the student. The author points out the importance of engaging ESL learners in communicative (game type) or integrative (short/small activities form larger activities) activities using materials, which are authentic, thereby, aiding the learners in unpredictable spoken language outside the class. The paper relates that students of English conversation must understand the fundamental difference between learning about the language and learning to use it for verbal communication.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Background Information of Interviewee
Report and Commentary on the Information Collected in the Conversation
What are Main Reasons for Learning English for ESL/EFL Learners in Japan?
What Stereotypes Take Place for a Foreign Teacher While Teaching ESL in Japan?
What are Key Features and Problems of ESL Learning in Japan and How can They Be Resolved by ESL Teachers to Achieve Best Results?
What Type of Class is more Desirable for ESL Students?
Does "Cultural Background" Play Any Role in Learning ESL in Japan?
Conclusion
From the Paper "The learner that I have interviewed generally has a strong first language model back at home in Japan. The interviewee had been in institution and educated at home from young till diploma level. Later, when he came to Australia with pursuing a degree in mind, he had a choice to either take an exam, TOFEL or take up a course with the duration of 3 months to learn English. This is because, his previous education did not meet the requirement of the university that he intended to enroll in. The requirement was that his previous education has to be taught in English for duration of more than 12 months."
Abstract The paper explores how Lev Vygotsky's 'zone of proximal development' might be best utilized in the provision of instruction and learning in the classroom. The paper explains that Vygotsky's proposed 'zone of proximal development' is a learning theory based on the social aspect of learning. The paper shows that Vygotsky's 'zone of proximal development' is relevant in the ESL elementary classroom; cooperative learning provides a fertile learning ground for ESL students in language acquisition, due to the frequent and collaborative use of the language in a setting that is non-threatening and non-demanding. The paper provides case study literature that relates the success of these methods, particularly in the ESLclassroom.
Outline:
Objective
Introduction
Summary and Conclusion
From the Paper "Stated as effective strategies to access the zone of proximal development are the strategies of: (1) scaffolding; and (2) reciprocal teaching. (Riddle) First the interest of the student must be engaged by the teacher and tasks must be simplified so as to be manageable. The students must be motivated in order to pursue the goal of instruction and the teacher must "look for discrepancies between students' efforts and the solution, control for frustration and risk, and model an idealized version of the act."(Hausfather, 1996; as cited by Riddle, nd) The development of a dialogue between the teacher and students is possible in 'reciprocal teaching'. Through the interactive instructional strategy of communication between the student and teachers the students are provided support and encouragement to reach beyond merely answering questions and to become engaged in the discourse in the classroom."
Tags: cooperative, learning, theory, social, language
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses what link, if any, exists between student learning anxiety and native versus non-native teachers in the EFL / ESLclassroom environment. The study identifies key issues surrounding this question in an attempt to identify what factors contribute to Taiwanese students' increases in language learning anxiety. Further, it investigates these issues with the intention of fleshing out valuable knowledge for future research and educational advancement. The writer concludes that this comparison of language learning anxiety between students of native and non-native ESL teachers in Taiwan intends to seek out what problems exist in the current system. The writer points out that by identifying and examining such problems, administrators can make educated decisions in the recruiting of foreign or native teachers to their ESL / EFL programs.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Research Questions
Definition of Terms
Limitations of the Study
Summary
References
From the Paper "Taiwan is experiencing an increase in English learners. As a result, a higher number of English language teachers are necessary. To meet this need, many foreign teachers specializing in ESL / EFL have flocked to Taiwan to teach classrooms full of English learners. For a variety of reasons, most of these English learners experience an Americanized version of English language training. Lou and Chism relay this Americanized English learning with the inability of young Taiwanese students to make associations between their own culture and experiences and English. This Americanized learning is in part due to the use of American written and published EFL textbooks. Yet, in classrooms where English is taught by a foreign ESL / EFL teacher, it is difficult to know whether the textbooks or the foreign teachers create difficulty in establishing successful language connections."
Abstract This paper discusses methods and approaches to teaching English as a second language (ESL). It looks at the definitions of behaviorism, discusses the fundamental concepts underlying behaviorism and discusses how they are beneficial in teaching ESL. The paper then looks at other approaches to teaching ESL and some of the theories of second language acquisition.
From the Paper "There are barriers to ESL learning, which can include motivation (or lack of it), self-confidence, anxiety or peer pressure, to name but a few.
"Krashen (1981) still believes that there is a value to a classroom environment, rather than an immersion environment when learning a second language. He feels that in cases where a student tries to learn from immersion alone, that there will be times when the input received (by listening to others) will be overwhelming and therefore incomprehensible. However, by using a mixture of classroom and immersion methods, the student is better able to make sense of the input received in the short term, classroom situation. Accordingly, the lessons learned in the classroom will then provide the framework for learning through immersion in a more casual situation outside of the classroom."
An analysis of Michael Breen's metaphor of the classroom from his paper "The Social Context for Language Learning: English Language Teaching in its Social Context - A Reader".
Abstract This paper attempts to briefly summarise the main points of Breen's paper and evaluate his metaphor of the classroom as an experimental laboratory in the light of the author's recent work with ELT programmes in government primary schools in S.E. Asia.
From the Paper "Chinese culture deems the schoolteacher as all-important, the fountain of all knowledge & worthy of respect. School children stand when the teacher enters the classroom & bow when greeting them. Everything the teacher says is written down & chanting, drilling and dictation in EFL lessons are the order of the day. Large class sizes, (typically 38 - 45 students per class) conspire against inclusive learning or the teacher taking much notice of learning styles or attitudes."
Abstract This paper presents an account of the role of teachers' cultural awareness in the classroom. The paper discusses issues dealing with a teacher's consciousness of and sensitivity to diverse cultures as well as the the teacher role as facilitator.
From the Paper "The purpose of this research is to examine the issues of a teacher's consciousness of and sensitivity to diverse cultures that arise in the context of classroom dynamics. The plan of the research will be to set forth the background in which cultural sensitivities have emerged as important features of education and then to discuss the implications of culturally conscious instruction on students' educational outcomes. If, as Greenfield argues, cultural history is a feature of cultural scripts then the embodied enactment of that culture is to be expected..."
Abstract This paper examines the research on the effectiveness of teaching in mixed-grade classrooms as compared to single-grade classrooms, with a particular emphasis on academic achievement and an even more specific math performance. The paper investigates the historical and cultural forces that shaped the one-age/one-grade classroom as a way of identifying the underlying pedagogical assumptions about the primacy of single-age teaching in he 21st century.
From the Paper "We are now so accustomed to the idea that students should be segregated from each other along narrow age bands that must of us do not question the efficacy and the rightness of doing so. But, of course, the idea that children should be placed into grades defined by age and separated from their peers is a recent trend in education as we well know. The practice is based as much in historical and social beliefs and circumstances as it is in sound pedagogy, and recently some schools have begun to ask whether single-grade classrooms are in fact the most effective atmosphere in which to teach elementary-age students. This paper examines the research on the effectiveness of teaching in mixed-grade classrooms to that of teaching in single-grade classrooms with a particular emphasis on academic achievement and an even more specific focus on how well students in both kinds of classrooms perform in math. Before looking at how these two types of classroom environments serve their students in the 21st century, it will be useful to examine the historical and cultural forces that shaped the one-age/one-grade classroom to begin with as a way of identifying the underlying pedagogical assumptions about the primacy of single-age teaching."
This paper presents a discussion on the ineffectiveness of classroom computers. Billions of dollars are being spent each year nationwide on computers in the classroom and our national test scores are still declining.
2,150 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 8 sources, 2002, $ 80.95
Abstract This paper presents a discussion on the ineffectiveness of classroom computers. Billions of dollars are being spent each year nationwide on computers in the classroom and our national test scores are still declining. As long as the machines serve as dust collectors in the back of the classroom, we need to divert what we are spending to better uses. Lack of training, fast paced advances, and teacher apathy are all discussed.
Tags: EDUCATION / TECHNOLOGY AND EDUCATION, computers classrooms effective
Abstract This paper presents a detailed literature review on the topic of "responsive classroom approach". Using sources that research the responsive classroom approach to teaching, the author explores the approach and evaluates school climate when the approach is implemented. The author also examines the perception of school climate using responsive classroom approach from the standpoint of teachers, students and parents.
Outline
Create Rules with your Class
Keep the Rules Simple
Teacher Language is Powerful
Take Time for Reflection
Childhood Education
From the Paper "The responsive classroom approach is one that has recently received attention nationwide in American schools. The approach deals with the social patterns of students in school. In recent years there has been attention given to school problems, including bullies, schools shootings and self esteem. With the more recent problems that have garnered national attention, school systems have turned to experts to determine how best to create a warm and welcoming school climate. Social skills may not fall under the four R's but if educators do not address the problem the repercussions could be tragic."
Abstract The paper explores the concerns of a number of researchers that the inclusive classroom is something for which the current education system is ill-prepared to facilitate (at least properly) and the paper also considers the argument of nay-sayers that the inclusive classroom creates the potential for damaging disruptions. On the other hand, the paper looks at those who favor the inclusive classroom and substantiates their favorable opinion by examining the emotional and (especially) scholastic benefits to LD students because of placement in an inclusive classroom.
From the Paper "The following paper will examine eight scholarly sources which explore whether or not inclusive classrooms that permit learning-disabled children to learn alongside unimpaired children is worth the considerable cost of training and equipping teachers to address the special needs of these young people. As one might expect in an issue of this complexity, both sides of the debate must examined. Consequently, the first half of the paper will explore the difficulties that the inclusive classroom creates - at least in the considered view of critics."
Abstract This paper examines whether violent experiences outside of the classroom have an influence on a student's development inside the classroom. The paper focuses on how students suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) adapt in a classroom setting. The paper also presents a number of suggestions for educators to assist these students.
From the Paper "The American Psychiatric Association defines Post-traumatic Stress Disorder(PTSD) as an anxiety disorder that develops after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened..."
Abstract This paper presents an introduction and discussion of classroom discourse. The paper discusses the types of discourse situations in classrooms and analyzes current thinking about classroom discourse.
From the Paper "Teaching is a demanding profession in which no two students are alike and no two days are alike. Teachers are responsible for motivating, liberating, educating and inspiring their students. Ira Shor, in "Empowering Education", suggests that good teachers do not talk at their students they talk with them. Similarly, a good teacher will not impart information unilaterally to students but will dialogue with students and encourage students to share their opinions. Ideally, such discussions will be simultaneously spontaneous and structured. David Reynolds, in "Educational Review" disagrees with..."
Abstract The paper discusses community, classroom and student characteristics that include geographic factors, community and school population, socio-economics, race/ethnicity, community stability and classroom rules and routines, grouping patterns, scheduling and arrangement and how they affect the teaching/learning process. The paper explains that contextual factors also acknowledge the impact of aspects like attitudes, perceptions, expectations, abilities, gender, socio-cultural background and maturity on every learning experience. The paper also looks at how community, classroom and student characteristics influence instructional planning and assessment.
From the Paper "It generally goes without saying that contextual factors play an important role in mathematical classroom via the way they affect the teaching/learning process. Among these factors are environmental (geographic location), community and school population, socio-economics, race/ethnicity, community stability, political climate and community support for education as well as classroom factors represented by rules and routines, grouping patterns, scheduling and classroom arrangement. Student characteristics should also be examined when designing instruction and assessing learning, such as age, gender, race/ethnicity, special needs, achievement/developmental levels, culture, language, interests, learning styles/modalities and skill levels."
