The Use of Technology in Second Language Education- Article 2 Analysis: ED 6376

 

The Use of Technology in Second 

Language Education

    The article I chose to review is about the use of technology in second-language education. I found it to be very insightful in the realm of how the lack of technological resources can affect individuals learning second language learners. Second language learners (L2s)  are people acquiring a second language and are non-native speakers of that language. They are in the acquisition process of learning a new language. It is often a long and daunting process as I can speak from experience as a bilingual educator. I see firsthand as my students go through a journey as they learn English as a second language. It is definitely no easy task teaching them a new language and guiding them in transitioning from their native language, which is Spanish for my students. I can relate to this article in the way that second language acquisition must be thought of as a process that teachers need to assure they are supporting their learners effectively. I also agree with the article's take that at times teacher education is neglected when concerning certain topics such as second language education and the use of technology in instruction.

    As I reflected on this article, I found myself further connecting with it in the sense of relating to the variety of issues associated with the use of technology in second language education. First off, there is “material access”, where individuals have no or limited access to hardware like network connections, computers, projectors, etc. As well as no access to sufficient software needed. Secondly, there is “skills access” where educators or students do not have the necessary skills to use the ITCs effectively which in turn hinders instruction or their educational journey. In addition, there is “usage access” where individuals actually do have access availability but do not utilize it efficiently. This can be caused by the fact of lack of teacher education that leads them to not being prepared and skilled in the area of technology implementation.

    In conclusion, I believe the article made a very valid point that no or limited access to technology should not be the sole factor in second language learners' success. Although it does hinder abilities and resources, it should not be the only determining factor whether a student efficiently learns a second language. Teacher education plays a major role in part of the solution of this issue. If teachers are better trained in optimizing the resources they do have available to them, then this can lead to optimal instruction for their students.    

What is second language learning? 

The following is my Article 2 Analysis link: 

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LjVJOJOfE-x2RRC0JMWniHLeiRoWM2IMK1CBLHjN0zQ/edit?usp=sharing