Technologies in the English Classroom

This 45-hour course is designed particularly for secondary school teachers, though many of the activities could be adapted for primary school students, as well as for adults.

Part A: The Internet and the language classroom

This course looks at using the Internet both as a resource bank and as a classroom tool, with particular emphasis on how we can use it for communicative purposes and project work.

Proposed sessions:

• Basic computer skills
• Searching for things on the Internet
• Lesson planning using the Internet
• Webquests
• Using the Internet for project work
• Using chat programs and email with classes
• Creating your own website
• Blogs and blogging
• Podcasting
• Creating your own interactive material
• Useful websites for teachers of English

The aim of this part of the course is to increase teachers' knowledge of some of the options available and to increase their confidence in their ability to use technology in their classrooms.

The content covered will depend partly on the needs and teaching circumstances of the attendees.

Part B: Music and Video

The course aims to provide teachers with the opportunity to look at ways of developing materials and tasks for their learners through working with technologies and media such as the Internet, video or music in the language classroom. It is not necessary for the participants to be proficient in the use of technology as the course is highly practical. The main objective is for teachers to leave with materials or ideas they can use in their classrooms, along with a better understanding and confidence in the use of technical equipment.

We will cover ways to develop and exploit films or television by incorporating sessions on:

• Integrating video into the syllabus, linking video with project work
• Making videos
• Making your worksheets effective
• Free film and music resources on the Internet
• Selecting sequences - from dramas, documentaries, films etc.
• The teacher's role when using film, music, video
• ELT literature on music and video

We will provide teachers with the opportunity to put their new ideas into practice by creating and producing a short video in groups, using a standard video camera.

We will also have some workshops using music in the classroom where teachers can share their ideas and also learn about the most up-to-date developments available. Teachers will leave with a large amount of materials and ideas around songs and lyrics, including the use of music for creative writing.

Dates: 1st - 10th July 2008
Duration: 45 hours
Timetable: 9h-14.15h plus personal study time
Places available: 15

Note Course outlines given are subject to final revision for the 2008 editions of these courses.