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How Technology is Influencing Language Learning

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As technology rapidly advances, we all do our best to keep up with it. And although not all that new technology brings with it is good for us, it still provides us with enough benefits to make some things much simpler than they used to be. One of these things is language learning. It’s evident that technology has changed the approach to learning a new language for both teachers and students. It has found its way into classrooms and allowed teachers to adjust their teaching methods and tools to the new generation of learners. Here are some ways in which technology has affected language learning.

It’s made classes more accessible

One great thing about technology is that it’s made it possible for people to have classes whenever and wherever they want. People living in big cities were able to find adequate language schools and native speakers of their target language even without the technology, but even they sometimes had to spend a lot of time getting from their homes to the language schools of their choice. For people in smaller towns, this used to be a real challenge. Nowadays, it doesn’t matter where you live. Using Skype or other PC or phone communication apps allows you to teach or receive lessons in the comfort of your own home or at your office and from native speakers of any language you can think of. This also means that these lessons can happen at the time of your choosing, which makes things far less complicated for those with tight schedules. Plus, if you choose one of the online language-learning tools which don’t rely on human teachers, you’ll get an incredible level of flexibility concerning the time and place of your lessons.

It’s in tune with the learners’ minds

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Unlike the generations that didn’t grow up surrounded by this much technology, most of today’s learners were born into it. Basically, this means that they’ve been exposed to one type of screens or another from the earliest age. Even though there are parents who strictly limit screen time for their children, it’s something that can’t really be avoided. The problem occurs when children get used to flashy images and movement they see on these screens, and we try to teach them from black and white books.

The still letters and the lack of vivid colors don’t sit well with their minds anymore. It’s become essential that teachers are aware of this so that they can utilize the same technologies that children are accustomed to in their lessons. That’s why it’s important for parents to choose schools such as the acclaimed Monkey Tree English learning center, where they employ experienced and creative teachers. These teachers aren’t afraid to try new and modern methods and introduce technology into their classes to keep their students interested and to help them learn through games and other different entertaining and stimulating activities.

It’s given us unlimited resources

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Another area in which technology just keeps on giving are the language-learning resources. From various websites to different apps, any learner can find study materials and all sorts of exercises to practice their reading, listening, writing and even speaking, and all in accordance with the level of their knowledge. Not only has this made things more convenient for the learners, but it’s also enabled teachers to prepare more versatile lessons and to provide their students with interactive and engaging materials to keep their attention focused on the language in question without ever getting bored.

There are now user-friendly platforms that make it easy for teachers and students to create audio and video presentations but also use those which have already been created by others in order to make their lessons more appealing. Having access to all these versatile resources also means that students can be in the same class, but that each of them can do exercises matching their individual abilities at the same time, giving them the freedom to move forward at their own pace.

It’s made communication instant

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A language is much more than a mere set of grammar rules and new vocabulary to memorize. Languages are alive and are best learned through different content and communication with other learners and native speakers. Technology has made this possible and more attainable than ever before. You can now use the internet and all it offers to stay in touch with other students, your teachers, but also people from all around the world who can provide you with the insight into different cultures. And it doesn’t stop there.

Modern technologies, when used in a classroom, can encourage learners to collaborate with each other, but also with students in other classrooms, regardless of their location in the world. This way, students get to exchange their experiences and knowledge, boosting their intercultural understanding and developing respect for cultural diversity. Finally, this type of instant communication also enables the students to reach their teachers and ask any relevant questions, or have their knowledge assessed anywhere and at any time.

It’s no secret that technology has made an impact on every sphere of our lives and the way we learn anything, including languages. So, embrace all the advantages of modern technology to simplify your learning and make it more interesting.

Written By

Lauren is a health and wellness writer with a passion for natural solutions and sustainable living.

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