Technology can not only help enhance learning experiences, but it can also address visual, auditory and kinesthetic learning styles.
Visual learners retain and understand information best when it is presented through diagrams, colours, images, spatial organization, or written words.
Examples of teaching strategies might include:
- Watching videos with subtitles
- Using charts or mind maps to learn vocabulary
- Colour-coded grammar charts
- Slide presentations or infographics
Auditory learners learn best by listening, and they retain information through discussions, spoken instructions, sounds, and music.
Examples of teaching strategies might include:
- Reading-aloud
- Listening to dialogues
- Group discussions
- Role-playing
Kinesthetic learners retain information best through hands-on experience, physical activity, and movement.
Examples of teaching strategies might include:
- Matching games, board games
- Using gestures to demonstrate vocabulary
- Acting out scenarios such as shopping or job interviews
- Writing on whiteboards
Including technology into the ESL learning environment can meet the multimodal learning needs of diverse learners by enhancing engagement and allowing for student-centred and interactive learning experiences. Moreover, exploring modern technology prepares learners for modern methods of communication which are linked to both professional and academic settings.
Effective tools that can help enhance the learning environment might include:
Padlet: A digital board used for group work, collaboration, brainstorming, journaling, sharing ideas that might relate to vocabulary, discussions, or cultural exchange topics.
Wordwall: An interactive tool which offers fun and interactive quizzes, games, and matching activities that could reinforce sentence construction, vocabulary, and grammar rules.
Canva: A design tool used for creating infographics, visual presentations and posters that can encourage project-based learning.
It is important to start small when introducing new technologies into the learning environment.
- Begin by introducing one technology at a time which is aligned with the learning goal.
- Provide short tutorials and demonstrations for each new technology and always have an alternative in case of technology issues (i.e., printed version).
- Check that the technology is mobile-friendly to ensure all learners have access through mobile devices.
Understanding diverse learning styles can allow language teachers to create more engaging, inclusive, and effective lessons by incorporating various technological tools. Exploring and integrating technological tools can prepare language teachers to better support diverse learners and help them build confidence in their language skills.
References
Haßler, B., Major, L., & Hennessy, S. (2016). Tablet Use in Schools: A Critical Review. International Journal of Educational Research, 77, 125–139.
Mishra, P., & Koehler, M. J. (2006). Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge: A Framework for Teacher Knowledge. Teachers College Record.
Warschauer, M., & Kern, R. (2000). Network-Based Language Teaching: Concepts and Practice. Cambridge University Press.
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