In the current era of technological transformation, with the emergence of the Web 2.0 tools and Information and Communications Technology (ICT), it is only appropriate for language teachers to acquaint themselves with teaching with technology as part of professional development.
Who is the course suitable for?
- Language teachers who are interested in using technology to support the teaching and learning of languages
- Teachers who are interested in developing themselves professionally in the area of teaching language with technology
What are the entry requirements?
To be registered as a trainee on the Teaching Language with Technology course you need to fulfil all the requirements below:
- Minimum of 18 years of age
- First language proficiency in English
- Minimum of a National Senior Certificate (Grade 12)
- A professional teaching qualification (TESOL, TEFL, CELTA or PGCE)
- A degree is highly recommended
- Basic computer literacy skills, including Windows 1997-2003, internet and emails
What are the aims and objectives of the course?
On completion of the course, candidates will:
- Have an understanding of the use of hardware and software technologies in the language classroom
- Be familiar with different types of technology and the benefits of using them in the classroom
- Be able to employ the skills, techniques and strategies required to effectively use technology in the language classroom
- Be able to evaluate and select ICT applications, social media and virtual learning environments, to enhance the experience of learning through technology
- Have an understanding of e-learning and how to design and implement an online course
- Be aware of professional development opportunities in the field of teaching with technology
How is the course structured?
In the input sessions, our trained and experienced teacher trainers will cover theoretical aspects of the course, such as the characteristics and needs of teaching language with technology, teaching methodology and the basic principles of language teaching using technology. The practical component provides trainees with the opportunity to plan and present activities, lessons and projects on language teaching using technology. These practical sessions are observed by an experienced trainer who provides constructive feedback and helps you to develop your skills in teaching language using technology.
What approach is used?
The Teaching Language with Technology course approach involves participatory learning, where trainees are very much involved in the learning and teaching process. Most input sessions will focus on trainees discovering new concepts and information about teaching language using technology through discussions, research, projects,
activities and presentations, utilising the technologies being stu
died. Trainees will also be involved in several tasks, either in groups
or pairs. Trainees are required to collaborate with their groups by
sharing and completing tasks and activities, since these will be
assessed. Trainees will be provided with a course file and will be
expected to prepare for daily sessions by reading the chapters
assigned for homework.
What will the course include?
- Technology in the classroom
- Technology in language teaching
- Attitudes to technology
- Implementing technology in the classroom
- Skills and equipment
- Using websites in the classroom
- How to find useful websites
- How to evaluate websites
- Planning lessons using the internet
- Web teaching do’s and don’ts
- Internet-based project work
- The benefits of internet-based project work
- Basic projects
- The benefits of email
- Basic email skills
- Using email with learners out of class
- Using email with learners during class
- Keypal projects
- Chat programmes
- Chat programmes in language teaching
- Using chat programmes with learners
- Blogs, wikis and podcasts
- Social software
- Blogs in language learning
- Using blogs with learners
- Wikis in language teaching
- Using wikis with learners
- Podcasts in language teaching
- Using podcasts with learners
- Online reference tools
- Technology-based courseware
- Producing electronic materials
- E-learning: Online teaching and training
- What is e-learning
- Teaching and learning online
- Virtual Learning Environments
- Online course design
- Preparing for the future
- The state of the art
- Web 2.0 tools for teaching and learning
- The future of online learning
- Staying abreast of developments
How long is the course?
The Teaching Language with Technology course is a 40-hour
contact course which includes observed and assessed teaching
practice. The classes are held two evenings per week and on
Saturday mornings, running over a period of four weeks.
What are the methods of assessment?
Assessment is continuous and there is no final exam. Trainees
are assessed on their practical teaching as well as a portfolio of
evidence, which includes assignments, completed projects, microteaching
evidence and teaching-practice lessons. Participation
and attendance is also considered as a major part of assessment,
since you will be required to participate in several tasks, activities
and presentations, either in groups or individually, throughout the
What certification is issued?
On successful completion of the course, trainees will receive a
Wits Language School Certificate of Competence in Teaching
Language with Technology.
Apply now for the Teaching Language with Technology course.