Suddenly, overnight the face-to-face classroom that was the norm for decades was no more. As a result, our common, convenient way of teaching changed overnight. What was once considered as an alternative for F2F teaching became our new normal: remote teaching or teaching online face-to-face.
Whereas many teachers were already using technology in the English language classroom, the danger highlighted in the article below is still relevant: lessons can become driven by technology rather than by effective pedagogy.
Effective pedagogy should underpin any decision we take in our planning and delivery, no matter id that’s face-to-face teaching or online teaching. Using a few Apps does not automatically enhance effective pedagogy. Before deciding what technology to use, ensure the key ingredients for effective practice lead your IT choices:
- Identify opportunities for Feedback so you can move learning forward.
- Give them Autonomy: a choice and a voice in your lesson
- Ensure activities and input are of the right level of Challenge
- Get your learners Engaged and maintain engagement
The attached article (first published in Modern English Teacher, 2016, Issue 2, Volume 25 and attached with permission of the editor) provides some ideas on how to various Apps and tools to support the above principles. Now without a doubt, many things have changed over the last 4 years and at present a trusted internet connection is more essential than ever. However, I still believe we should not get too hung up on the latest cutting-edge tools and Apps because it is still about being there for our learners, making sure they know we care about them and their learning and doing what we are best at: good teaching!
Updates for Apps mentioned:
- Kaizena is another great tool to record and show feedback
- Google Drive is still a favourite but also Padlet works wonders for collaboration
- Zaption has been replaced by Edpuzzle
- Spaaze is no longer active: check out Padlet, Pearltrees or Wakelet