Thoughts on using technology in classes

As pointed by some researchers, any benefits from engaging in CMC are not automatically derived from the tools themselves but rather from how CMC is used in service of promoting meaningful interactions and real intercultural reflections. So the instructor must consider both the pedagogical objectives of a course and the implementation of an appropriate CMC tool.

When using technology in EFL teaching, a teacher should be fully aware of the benefits and challenges of CMC. As to the benefits, we may look at four broad categories: 1) language use and development 2) classroom dynamics 3) student attitude 4) teachers’ research potential and resources. While most researchers admit CMC is really effective, there are several challenges we’d better keep in mind: 1) computer literacy 2) access and logistics and 3) privacy and security 4) plagiarism in electronic age.

As a Chinese saying goes, “It’s better to teach a person how to fish than give him or her fish itself”, so is the use of CMC tool in EFL teaching. Technology will never replace teachers. What we are supposed to do is to guide the learning process and help students use technology more effectively, rather than leave them uncontrolled, give them no feedback, and eventually blame the technology as an obstruction to students’ linguistic competence. After all, one thing is clear: teachers who use technologies appropriately will replace those who do not.