TPCK Chapter 5 - Integrated Framework for World Language Teachers

Chapter five was all about how the principles of TPCK could be used by World Language teachers. Many interesting suggestions were proposed that got me thinking about the different uses. The chapter also addressed some challenges to technology usage that are prevalent in most subject areas.

One of the ideas about integrating technology to help students learn was through the use of the Internet as a tool. Foreign Language teachers have the job of teaching students how to read, write and speak a second language. They also have the job of helping students to understand a different culture from their own. Technology resources such as the Internet can help students with this. Students now have ways to get direct and immediate information about other cultures and ways of life. They can access virtual field trips which can take them around the world. This type of experience might not be available or affordable otherwise.

The Internet also provides a medium for students to communicate with others around the world. Videoconferencing, e-mail, discussion boards and instant messaging give students direct access to other students either learning the same language or people that are native to that language. One of the best ways for students to learn language skills is through meaningful interaction and communication with others. Technology has opened up the world and brought cultures closer together. There are schools right here in Maine that are in contact with kids from other countries. My students learn Spanish in third grade and I would love to give my students an opportunity like this! I’ll need to speak with the Spanish teacher about trying it out.

One of the concerns expressed by the author in increasing technology integration was the lack of training for many teachers. The author expressed that the “uncertainty” of teachers hinders the integration. Teachers need to understand what to do and how to do it with technology in order for it to be effective. Once in-service training of technology increases then the amount of technology usage will increase. It is up to district leaders to make it happen. This concept is something that will have to be pushed in my district, especially with the current economic downturn.