Methods of teaching a foreign language using Internet resources focus on creating an interactive, engaging, and authentic learning environment that leverages technology to develop all four language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Key methods and approaches include:
1. Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) with Online Tools
The internet is ideal for a communicative approach, which emphasizes real-world communication.
– Online Communication: Use synchronous (e.g., video conferencing via Zoom, Skype) and asynchronous (e.g., email, forums, social media groups) tools to facilitate interaction between students, and between students and native speakers. communication include text-based forms like email, instant messaging, and social media posts, as well as voice and video-based interactions such as VoIP calls and video conferencing. Other examples are forums, blogs, and online gaming communities.
– Text-based
– Email: Sending and receiving messages, files, and photos over the internet.
– Instant messaging: Real-time text conversations through apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Slack.
– Social media: Posting updates, messages, and comments on platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram.
– SMS: Standard text messaging on mobile phones.
– Forums: Online discussion boards where people post messages and reply to others.
– Blogs: Online journals where individuals or groups share written content.
– Voice and video
– Video conferencing: Live, interactive meetings with video and audio, such as those on Zoom and Skype.
– VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol): Making phone calls over the internet instead of a traditional phone line.
– Voice calls via apps: Using messaging apps that include the ability to make voice calls.
– Podcasts: Digital audio files that can be subscribed to and streamed online.
– Other types
– Virtual worlds: Online environments for social interaction, gaming, and other activities.
– Online gaming communities: Communication within the context of playing video games.
– Online surveys: Using online forms to collect feedback and data.
– Workplace communication tools: Professional platforms for collaboration, such as Microsoft Teams and Google Workspace.
– Language Exchange Programs: Websites like iTalki and Tandem connect learners with native speakers for real-time conversation practice, improving speaking and listening skills in a natural context.
– Collaborative Projects: Students can work in groups using tools like Google Docs to co-write stories, articles, or presentations, encouraging teamwork and peer review.
2. Utilizing Authentic Multimedia Materials
Access to a vast array of authentic materials exposes students to the modern, «live» language as it is used by native speakers.
– Audio & video: incorporate videos (e.g., Youtube, Netflix, news sites like BBC world service), podcasts, and music to improve listening skills and introduce cultural context.
– Reading materials: use websites of foreign newspapers, online magazines, and blogs to develop reading skills with current, relevant content.
– Virtual tours: take virtual museum tours or cooking classes to integrate cultural elements and enhance engagement.
3. Gamification and Interactive Platforms
Gamified learning and interactive activities help maintain student motivation and engagement.
– Language learning apps: tools like Duolingo, Babbel, and Quizlet use interactive exercises, digital flashcards, and games to reinforce vocabulary and grammar.
– Digital quizzes & games: teachers can create engaging quizzes using platforms like Kahoot! Or integrate gamification elements (leaderboards, rewards) into lessons.
4. Inquiry-Based and Project-Based Learning
These methods encourage student autonomy and critical thinking by having them solve problems or complete projects using online resources.
– Webquests: students follow a structured inquiry plan, using specific links to find information and synthesize their findings in a final project or presentation.
– Information search: students learn to independently search for, evaluate, and use information found online for specific tasks, developing digital literacy skills.
5. AI-Powered Tools
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming language education by providing personalized and adaptive learning experiences.
– Intelligent Tutoring Systems: AI-driven systems provide tailored guidance, customized exercises, and real-time feedback based on a learner's progress.
– Conversational Agents: AI chatbots allow students to practice speaking and writing skills in simulated real-life conversations.
– Pronunciation Analysis: apps like ELSA Speak use speech recognition to help students improve their pronunciation.
By combining these methods, teachers can create a dynamic and effective learning environment that caters to different learning styles and maximizes the potential of internet resources.
Online language resources can be categorized by their focus: interactive platforms like language apps and MOOCs offer structured lessons and practice; multimedia resources like videos and podcasts provide immersion and listening practice; digital tools like online dictionaries and translation services offer quick lookups; and text-based resources such as e-books and online forums allow for reading and communication practice.
Resource Type
Description
Best For
Examples
Interactive Platforms Offer structured courses with lessons, exercises, and feedback. Building foundational skills in a guided environment. Language learning apps, Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) like Coursera and those on platforms like Swayam.
Multimedia Resources use audio and visual content for learning. Improving listening comprehension, pronunciation, and cultural context. YouTube channels, podcasts, and streaming services.
Digital Tools Provide quick access to specific language information. Looking up vocabulary, checking grammar, and translating words or phrases. Online dictionaries, translation websites, and grammar checkers.
Text-Based Resources
Consist of written materials and communication. Enhancing reading fluency and practicing writing. E-books, news articles, online forums, and language exchange sites.
Specialized Resources Provide materials for specific purposes or skills. Focusing on a specific area of language learning or a particular language skill.
References:
- Kostromina, A. V. Methodological recommendations for teachers on the use of educational Internet resources in the process of teaching a foreign language / A. V. Kostromina // GAPOU “CHTTPiK” of the Ministry of Education of Chuvashia. — Cheboksary, 2017. — 25 p.
- Treasure hunt technologies in teaching English [Electronic resource]. — Access mode: https://infourok.ru/tehnologii-treasure-unt-pri-obuchenii-angliyskomu-yaziku-2857816.html
- Kostyuchenko, M. V. Internet resources for learning English / M. V. Kostyuchenko, A.Yu. Trutnev // International Journal of Applied and Fundamental Research. — 2018. — No. 1. — P. 181–185. — [Electronic resource]. — Access mode: https://applied-research.ru/ru/article/view?id=12090
