Solution through Computers in Mixed Ability English Classroom

            Utilization of Computers in the Mixed Ability English Classroom

Introduction

Students think materials are new and fresh, if they are presented on computers, and they are often interested even in routine tasks such as learning to type. They seem to be willing to spend more hours and do more exercises on a computer than by hand.  (An extract from: Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL))

The above-mentioned extract reveals the fact that no change can be brought without a change in the teaching methodology. Presently, our trainers seem to have exhausted with the previous modes and techniques of teaching. Trainees along with the trainers need a methodology that is modern and effective. Therefore, it is clearly indicated that, the only way seems to overcome this demand is the usage of Computers. Already; attempts have been made to teach language and literature through the computer. This new field is called Computer Assisted Language Learning and Computer Assisted Literature Learning. Thus, the fact that language can be taught through the computers is put forward here. The article also discusses the nature of interaction and the definition of CALL (Computer Assisted Language Learning) with its applications and thus it evidences the truth that computer pair work enhances interaction.

Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL):

It is a relatively new and rapidly evolving academic field that explores the role of information and communication technologies in language learning and teaching process. It provides fertile ground for leading innovative and highly creative thinking and scholarly work. Today, CALL activities exploit improved technology to produce highly interactive learning environments. It imparts effective support for the acquisition of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing skills. It proves that the number of variables associated with language learning and the difficulty in controlling those variables, in the second language learning is not so tedious, but it is to be designed according to the learners’ attitude.

Individualization

Individualization is not a method or technique, but a philosophy of education. Here, learning is student-centered and the teacher assists the students in pursuing their goals. As a result, students feel secure and get satisfaction in learning. In a class with one facilitator, it is little difficult to respond to each student, to give feedback immediately and to be aware of each student’s progress, problems and weaknesses. Here the computer plays a vital role in giving information and teaching the students. For instance, it is reasonable to say that it is difficult for the trainer to concentrate on each student in all the three activities in the writing session like correcting files, assignments and answer sheets. However, it will be rectified to certain extent by using computers in a writing class.  Just with the click of a mouse, they monitor and analyze everything effectively and logically and grading efficiently.

Language laboratory:

Language laboratory can be used in the class session, if there are adequate workstations and rooms. Since students rarely use the capacity of media, they feel uneasy about the recorded answers on a cassette and the user’s voices. The stability of    students’ tape recorders might be affected by signal fluctuation. Therefore, multimedia computers have to be adopted as a better option, which are configured   with the right software, permitting the students to view websites, to listen and to read the world’s great literature to facilitate person-to-person communication through e-mail, chat, internet phone, low- end video conferencing and many more. Voice recognition software allows the students to choose and to practise better idea of their accuracy. If an institution has electronic classrooms, the instructor with a laptop, demonstrates the orientation features and a good instruction sheet will take care of the rest. If the students have not finished at the class time, they can continue their work at home.

Role of the Trainers:

A language trainer may not know the definitions and descriptions of technical terms and the processes related to Technology. She is expected to be familiar with those matters, before she enters into the class. As the blooming generation is efficient in gathering new ideas on science and facts, they try to cross- check the teacher, whether she/he knows about the latest technology.  Therefore, the language   teacher in   technical institution needs to be efficient and confident while responding to the students. At this point, the paper depicts the fact that the students tend to enjoy using computers and obviously the instructors need much more preparation, to identify the factors involved in using software efficiently, for language teaching.

Solution through Computers:

Generally, it is a belief that computers should be used to make classes more effective. Therefore, it has to be noted, that there are two ways to use them. One way is for the trainer to present pictures, videos and written text with or without sound. The presentation can be programmed in advance or handled manually. The other way to use computers is to have students use the computers themselves. The researchers find the second method of using computers, which lead the students a better understanding of computers as well as language learning. In this method, the students work individually on their own interest. The computer provides materials to study and students can interact with the computer as if they are doing with a tutor or a library. The students here are encouraged to do the work either in groups or in pairs, so that they can get a spirit of cooperation and confidence in finding the answers. Interaction among the students is as important as that with a computer in learning. The researcher suggests that students work at a computer during the class, can do assignments drills, games, simulations and even reviewing and preparing for the class. Thus, using computers give way to their knowledge and promotes the nature of independence. The researcher is of the view that the computer education is a beneficial one for both the slow workers and the advanced students, as it encourages working at their own pace. Slower workers can catch up, and advanced students can do extra assignments.

Conclusion:

Learning can be individualized by using computers .Students can acquire materials related to their individual goals and interests, with the appropriate level and at their own pace. Thus, the analysis concludes with a perception that computers can analyze the problems of each student and the trainer can help individual students with their problems based on their level especially in the Mixed Ability English Classroom.

I think it's fair to say that personal computers have become the most empowering tool we've ever created. They're tools of communication, they're tools of creativity, and they can be shaped by their user.

                                                                                                      -  Bill Gates