Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Chapter 5
An integrated framework for educating world language teachers

I feel that the field of education is moving toward a more social and constructivist approach, which I think is essential for the growth both of the teachers and children. The learning and teaching aspects in the field of education should and are beginning to occur simultaneously. I now realize that when teaching world languages it is crucial to use technology to expose children to hear the language, culture, and have meaningful conversations with immediate feedback.
From this chapter, I did learn a lot about the theories and models regarding the world language approaches. There is a lot of research that states how and what is the best way to teach world languages to children. I think in my classroom, I teach children to speak properly and grammatically correct in their own language. By practicing and opportunities to speak to others is important for children to hear and acquire new skills and rules.
This chapter stressed the importance of authentic materials used in the foreign language and I think that it also transcends into the Kindergarten classroom. As a Kindergarten teacher, the children must be exposed to materials and experiences that are meaningful and genuine to the children.
Using technology when teaching children various world languages it can make it more culturally and linguistically valuable. There are many programs that help and assist teachers to help and support the technology integration more effective and seamless. We must remember that there is a connectedness with both teaching and learning and this is evident when teaching world languages.
I can not wait to “achieve a sound fusion of technology into all content areas” which would impact the children’s learning (123).

3 comments:

  1. Sorry, I came in late. I do apologize! I have taken 3 years of ASL so Hattie I loved the ASL sites. One the first day of class, I teach my children 5 signs. So at this point of the year, my kids are signing nursery Rhymes and other poems, colors, etc. I will use these sites for myself, and the children. I am upset that we do not have foreign language in our school, only for the 3rd grade. So I hope to use these for my professional use.

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  2. Stacey, I think that it's awesome that you teach signs to your little guys (and girls). I think that Lori Lewis at the high school would probably love to come down with or without high school students and teach some ASL to your munchkins. I bet that would be a powerful experience for the high school students and for your little ones. I'm glad that you found some additional resources for your teaching!

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  3. Stacey,

    In your blog, you write about using technology to teach world languages to make it more culturally and linguistically valuable. Personally, I totally agree with this statement. I found it interesting the way you related that to your Kindergarten learners. Both groups of learners benefit from authentic materials used in lessons. I enjoyed your “All About Me” presentation. When you talk about your Kindergarten students, you are so enthusiastic!

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