Language Learning Technology

Teaching Philosophy:

As I have no formal teaching experience, I am still in the process of developing my teaching philosophy.  However, my goals are  to utilize open source software and learning management ecosystems to find a pedagogy that best suits the approach for the virtual learner.  The learner should be exposed to the latest technological advancements that are both creative and allow for reinforcement without being rigorous keeping the learner engaged and progressive.  

Pedagogically, I subscribed to Vygotsky's theories on utilizing the learner's zone of proximal development building upon the learner's present knowledge base.  Also, it is imperative to watch the triggers that are often present when a learner reaches a block or plateau is his or her learning or retention.  Offering instruction that is approachable and creative yet challenging is key to build upon critical thinking skills and move from rote to autonomous learning.

Culturally speaking, I want incorporate cross-cultural methods and training to allow the student to linguistically,  identify with the common ground of the native English speaker, but also allow for their own customs and mother tongue to find the bridge between the two.  

With virtual management systems and language software, there is the opportunity to build creative spaces such as both Soja and Bells Hooks recommends and adapting it to the virtual platforms and collaborative online communities.

Instructionally, I want to offer learning that is both facilitative and direct method.  Additionally, providing open source software and technological tools to help the learner take on a student centered role and advance the learner including podcasts, e-readers, video lectures, etc.   Much depends upon the specific learning style, and the cognitive barriers present.  For group work, I thinking student pairing is good for language practice and assessment,

Assessing the student's progress virtually will be through periodic assessments, ongoing activities, language modules, and possibly self assessment to teach the student autonomous learning.  Likewise, email, Zoom meetings, and scheduled online chat allow for Teacher-Student exchange. 

There is a host of virtual checklists I am researching through the Checklist for Online Interactive Learning.  Much depends on the learning platform, and online community where homework can be done in a private group setting.  

I still have more research to do in shaping my philosophy, and found an article on pedagogical approach: