I heartily agree that e-learning is a big part of  the future. The Internet,
with all of its blogs, podcasts, mushrooming free content and interactivity
is an exciting extension and even substitute for the traditional classroom.
The iPod is the new language lab.

Both are inexpensive and enable teachers to reach, help and inspire more
learners than in the past. All teachers should also be learners. Language
learning should follow the model expounded by Ivan Illitch, the Convivium,
with members teaching and learning.

 Cicero once describe the Convivio or Roman feast as spending time with
people who are sharing our lfe with us. This can now be done across time
zones and cultures.

--
Regards,

Steve Kaufmann
www.LingQ.com
1-604-922-8514
[image: LingQ]




The future of language



On Wed, Oct 22, 2008 at 12:42 PM, Paul Rogers <pumarosa21 at yahoo.com> wrote:


>         Distance learning - in my opinion - will become an integral part

> of ESL in the future. Those programs already involved in a distance learning

> approach have found that they are able to provide ESL instruction to many

> more students, while at the same time increasing interest and "retention."

>      Distance learning can be defined as a program that provides lessons

> via computers and internet, dvds and videos, audio cds and ipods,  text-books

> or workbooks with homework assignments, "homework" via email, and, in some

> cases, airing lessons on community television ("public access tv").

>

>      There are also programs which provide free or low cost refurbished or

> used computers for ESL students, a Computers For Families approach.

>

>      And there are grants available for distance learning under the title

> of "Bridging The Digital Divide."

>

>      Distance learning is more "student centered" and, I think, more

> popular and can be more effective.

>

>      In addition, publicity to increase community interest for this kind of

> program can be done through community newspapers, or newspapers in the

> language of the potential students, radio stations (PSAs) and flyers

> distributed at swap meets, churches, local stores, etc.

>

>      Other venues can include places like laudromats - I just started

> "teaching" at the Laundromat I use! I  use some of my cds, texts, and some

> home made dvds. I shall eventually bring in my laptop and demonstrate how my

> website works.

>

> Very interesting, no?!

>

> Paul Rogers

> 805-258-3310

> pumarosa21 at yahoo.com

> PUMAROSA.COM

>

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