E Mail And Forums In An Esl Classroom Teed 3035

E-mail and Forums in an

ESL Classroom

Yaileen Filpo SánchezTEED 3035

March 9, 2010

Introduction

• Computers, technology in general have become an important component of second language learning experiences.

• Teachers recognize that using technology, provides students with both independent and collaborative learning environments and provides them with language experiences.

What is E-mail?

• Electronic mail

• A method of exchanging digital messages. E-mail systems are based on a store-and-forward model in which e-mail computer server systems accepts, forwards, delivers and store messages on behalf of users.

Advantages• Best way for teachers and students to send

and receive assignments.

• No excuse when absent.

• “Go Green!” Less use of paper.• Messages can be read and send at our

convenience.• Messages can be forward without typing

them over and over again.

Disadvantages

• Network problems and limited internet access can delay a message.

• Viruses can be sent through e-mails.

• Grammatical mistakes.

• Could be misunderstood.

• Student’s attention may not be 100% to the teacher in front.

What is a forum?

• Known as a message board, or bulletin board is an online discussion site.

• A place where students have the ability to start communication and reply to others.

• A public meeting place for open discussion of various topics.

Advantages• Students who are not comfortable speaking the

language, are able to express their feelings and not feel embarrassed.

• Students don’t have to be online at the same time.

• Students can plan their own question and comments and consider others opinions.

• You can post up different types of media.

• Teacher controls the forum.

Disadvantages• Students might not write correctly.

• Students might not check the forums as often as they should.

• The message might not get across correctly.

• Students can copy others.

Which would I use?

References

• http://www.nationalforum.com/Electronic%20Journal%20Volumes/Cheng-Chieh%20Lai%20The%20Advantages%20and%20Disadvantages%20of%20Computer%20Technology.pdf

• http://www.slideshare.net/JesmarieV/emails-and-blogs-in-esl-classroom

• http://iteslj.org/Articles/Nagel-Email.html

• http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/545413/using_online_forums_in_the_classroom.html