JET Programme Tokyo Orientation 2011

JET PROGRAMME TOKYO ORIENTATION 2011 Technology and Other Tools in the Classroom

JET Programme Tokyo Orientation 2011 Technology and Other Tools in the Classroom AJET Workshop

I. Introduction: So… you want to use technology in your classes? Benefits of Using Technology  Introduces new, novel ways to conduct class (engages students)  Help move schools into the 21st century, away from the traditional chalk and blackboard that most schools still use  Teach English language and culture simultaneously  Make an impression on the kids  Help you teach a topic in a clearer, more efficient and interesting way  A picture is worth 1,000 words. (Try describing what lasagna is vs. showing a color photo)  A video is worth 10,000 words. (Try talking about an Irish jig vs. showing a Riverdance video)  Enhance the four skills of language (reading, writing, esp. listening and speaking)

II. Using Technology and Media Slideshows (PPT) Advantages Watch Out For Great for showing culture and images Don’t just read the slides! Great for grammar and supplementing the textbook Keep words to a minimum Introduce daily conversational English! May disengage students if content is too difficult Great way to learn in a fun and different way Effective way to play games e.g. Jeopardy Can review a lot in a short amount of time Great for visual learners Videos  Possible Uses  Vocabulary practice  Native English listening practice  Guessing what will happen next  Writing movie reviews  Listening comprehension exercises  Writing the plot for a sequel Advantages Watch Out For Exposes students to native English Students may only read subtitles and completely ignore the English spoken Exposes students to international culture Takes at least two class periods and preparation time JET PROGRAMME TOKYO ORIENTATION 2011 Technology and Other Tools in the Classroom

Generates excitement and increases student motivation For videos without dialogues, students are not exposed to native English speech Grabs lower-level students’ attention; casual/relaxing Can be too intimidating for students; loss of interest Music Advantages Watch Out For International Students may lose interest in lessons and just want to Engages students in a fun and relaxed environment see music videos Exposes students to western culture and music Too difficult lyrics and music with fast tempo may Improves comprehension, rhythm and intonation cause students to lose interest

Internet in the Classroom  Online research for projects  Can also use “Simple English” on Wikipedia!  English games from www.genkienglish.com  Videos from www.koomakids.com  Skyping with other English speakers/learners

III. Other Useful Tools

Realia Flash Cards Small Whiteboards Question Ball Microphone Disposable chopsticks Decks of Cards Dice Postcards Letter-Writing to Santa Claus Special Needs Students (特別支援) JET PROGRAMME TOKYO ORIENTATION 2011 Technology and Other Tools in the Classroom