Dear Readers,
I have set out on a journey to explore how to become an effective teacher of writing and reading to ESL students through the use of technology and writing conferences. ESL students struggle with acquiring both cognitive academic language, and basic interpersonal communication skills. The mainstream classroom can often be an overwhelming environment for the ESL student, and without the proper use of materials and strategies, students can begin to lose their drive for learning and eventually shut down.
Incorporating various types of technology into my classroom can help motivate students at all levels of language acquisition. Writing conferences are also an effective way of communicating with English language learners. A one-on-one situation which allows the teacher to break down information on a level that allows the student to comprehend instruction is one of the most important aspects of teaching ESL students.
Questions that guided my research include: What types of technology are most effective for ESL students? How can I make technology a part of my everyday classroom routine? What are some effective conferencing techniques to use with language learners? What type of language do ESL students respond best to in conferences? How can I incorporate technology into my classroom without taking away from the “classroom feel”?
This project has helped me truly understand the answers to all of the questions above and more! I have gathered a plethora of information on the types of technology that are most beneficial to students along with information regarding the role of a teacher during the writing conference. The most important aspect I have gained through my research is not only what to include in my future classroom, but also how to include all aspects discussed in an effective manner.
Sincerely,
Maria Guirguis
Incorporating various types of technology into my classroom can help motivate students at all levels of language acquisition. Writing conferences are also an effective way of communicating with English language learners. A one-on-one situation which allows the teacher to break down information on a level that allows the student to comprehend instruction is one of the most important aspects of teaching ESL students.
Questions that guided my research include: What types of technology are most effective for ESL students? How can I make technology a part of my everyday classroom routine? What are some effective conferencing techniques to use with language learners? What type of language do ESL students respond best to in conferences? How can I incorporate technology into my classroom without taking away from the “classroom feel”?
This project has helped me truly understand the answers to all of the questions above and more! I have gathered a plethora of information on the types of technology that are most beneficial to students along with information regarding the role of a teacher during the writing conference. The most important aspect I have gained through my research is not only what to include in my future classroom, but also how to include all aspects discussed in an effective manner.
Sincerely,
Maria Guirguis
