This semester, I will be learning about technology in the library and ways to bring educational technology to my school community. Let’s start with a list: Top 10 things I have learned this week:
- Blogging is harder than it looks – I spent hours trying to make a new site only to decide to try to freshen up my old one.
- Repurposing and updating a blog for a new semester can work.
- Technology moves fast and it sometimes leaves breadcrumbs that lead nowhere. – I did some Google searching and thought I had found a great app to gamefy vocabulary development only to find out (after 20 minutes of searching the app store) that it was no longer a going concern even though the website said 2024 at the bottom.
- Starryai is better for logos and fun illustrations than for complex images if the user is relatively inexperienced.
- Canva is also good for making useful “publications” – flyers newsletters etc.
- Commonsense has a good interface with recommended tools to try with reviews and links.
- Diigo was recommended as a place to catalogue good ideas and so far I like it.
- I am going to have to set a timer for each website/app/homework assignment to avoid pouring whole days into fruitless searches.
- I successfully avoided using ChatGPT until today.
- ChatGPT created a pretty good Top 10 list for me.
I asked ChatGPT to make a Top 10 list and I will use it as a roadmap for what kinds of technology I should focus on for my school community.
ChatGPT prompt: What are the top ten things teachers of English Language Learners should know about technology?
- Digital Language Learning Platforms: Explore digital language learning platforms that cater specifically to ELLs. These platforms often provide interactive lessons, assessments, and opportunities for language practice.
- Multimedia Resources: Leverage multimedia resources such as videos, audio clips, and interactive presentations to engage ELLs in diverse language experiences. This can enhance comprehension and language skills.
- Online Language Games and Apps: Incorporate language learning games and applications that make learning enjoyable for students. Many apps are designed to reinforce vocabulary, grammar, and language proficiency.
- Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): Explore the potential of VR and AR for language learning. Virtual environments and simulations can provide immersive language experiences, helping ELLs practice in realistic scenarios.
- Collaborative Tools for Communication: Use collaborative tools like video conferencing, discussion forums, and chat platforms to facilitate communication among ELLs. This enhances language practice and fosters a sense of community.
- Adaptive Learning Technologies: Integrate adaptive learning technologies that tailor content to individual student needs. These technologies adjust the difficulty level of tasks based on each learner’s proficiency, ensuring personalized learning experiences.
- Online Reading and Writing Tools: Encourage the use of online reading and writing tools that provide instant feedback. This can help ELLs improve their writing skills and gain confidence in expressing themselves in English.
- Digital Storytelling: Engage ELLs in digital storytelling activities. This can include creating multimedia presentations, videos, or podcasts, allowing students to express themselves creatively while enhancing language skills.
- Language Translation Tools: Introduce ELLs to language translation tools that can aid in understanding and bridging language gaps. Emphasize the responsible use of these tools to support comprehension.
- Professional Development in EdTech: Stay informed about the latest educational technology trends and participate in professional development opportunities. This will help teachers stay current with effective tech integration strategies for language learning.
Sources: New blog logo and images courtesy of Starryai
Library at BINcA 
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