One way that technology could be integrated in my classroom is through e-mails. Unfortunately, our school has a closed e-mail policy. Students are unable to e-mail outside of the school or even to each other.

I really liked the blog, "Creat your own social network 7 steps" from Learning technology teacher development blog for ELT by Nik Peachey. It lists everything that should be considered when you are developing your own blogging system, what should be included and what you should be careful of.

Just like the TV, I am becoming digital! "Adjusting to Wikis, Blogs and Podcasts in the classroom."

I am a spanish teacher in a local high school. We are not the most multi-cultural neighborhood in the country, however we are catching up. I am noticing a lot more Spanish on product labeling and directional signing in our stores.

Previously, the use of technology in the classroom consisted of games, powerpoints and language learning software. Students could also surf the web and read about spanish speaking countries they might like to visit or other cultural information. While these tools are very useful, these tools are also very closed ended. Once a student wins a game or finishes the exercises in a language software program, the tool no longer serves a purpose to further learning.

The use of the latest tools in technology, Wikis, Podcasts, and Blogs can provide students with the support they need when studying the target language outside of the classroom. Technology can help provide authentic communication experiences. Students have the opportunity to talk to students in a guided global setting. The motivation for studying the target language is based upon the want and need to communicate in order to gain information for a purpose or goal.

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