How to Learn English Through Technology

By Miranda Morley, eHow Contributor 

With technology you can take English learning on the go.

Learning English as a second language is challenging no matter what learning materials you use; however, technology can make learning English easier. According to Mary Masterson of Georgia State University, "the text, graphics, video, and audio [of multimedia] encourage immersion in language." Whether you plan to use a CD to practice English listening or a computer program to learn new grammar and vocabulary techniques, there are a number of ways that you can use technology to learn English.

Instructions

1. • 1
     Get an English language program for your computer or smartphone. Programs such as Rosetta Stone, Clarity and EC ESL Resources offer ESL training in reading, writing, speaking and listening. These programs allow you to move at your own pace, practicing and mastering one concept before you go on to another. The development of speech recognition software and headsets that include microphones has made this type of software even more effective.

     Programs for your smartphone, such as PencilBot for iPhone and iPad, allow you to practice English on the go, whether you're on your morning bus commute or standing in line at a department store. Because the more you are immersed in the English language, the easier English language learning becomes, these technologies that allow you to have access to English no matter where you go are very beneficial. Indeed, Renee Ybarra's article in the Internet TESL Journal notes that computers can improve or expedite many facets of English language learning.
   • 2
     Listen to or view English language programming on a CD, DVD or iPod. Whether you're listening to audio specially developed for English language learning or simply material in the English language, you are improving your English skills. According to the Online Education Database, one valuable resource for ESL students are the numerous free ESL podcasts available on the Web. You may also listen to or view English TV shows, movies and music in order to test your own pronunciation against the speaker's or practice your comprehension skills.

     According to Mary Masterson, "The common technologies of television and videotapes are valuable learning tools, when used appropriately. With previewing, viewing, and post-viewing activities included, a wide array of activities can be used with video and television that provide both auditory and visual language experiences."
   • 3
   • Set your technological devices to English as the default language. Computers, phones, MP3 players, GPS systems and other technologies allow users to select from a list of languages. When you select English, you not only further immerse yourself in the English language, but you also provide yourself with a quick, practical and challenging ESL exercise whenever you need to use one of your devices.
   • 4
     Use the Internet to engage in self-study and communicate with English speakers across the globe. According to the ESL Teachers Board, the Internet provides many options for self-study, as you can plan your own course by determining what you want to learn. You can also find English-speaking study partners by visiting chat rooms and participating in forums related to your interests. When you post in a forum, ask other members for help with your English, and you'll be surprised how many respond. In addition, you can use video chatting to practice pronunciation with English speakers.
   • 5
     Take formal classes online by enrolling in an online college or university that offers ESL classes or hiring a professional private tutor. Distance learning courses such as these allow you to have the formalized instruction of an expert while keeping your flexible, learn-from-anywhere schedule.

Source :  http://www.ehow.com/how_7811756_learn-english-through-technology.html

Summary

How to Learn English Through Technology

Ø  Get an English language program for your computer or smartphone. Programs such as Rosetta Stone, Clarity and EC ESL Resources offer ESL training in reading, writing, speaking and listening. Programs for your smartphone, such as PencilBot for iPhone and iPad, Because the more you are immersed in the English language, the easier English language learning becomes, these technologies that allow you to have access to English no matter where you go are very beneficial.

Ø  Listen to or view English language programming on a CD, DVD or iPod. Whether you're listening to audio specially developed for English language learning or simply material in the English language, you are improving your English skills. According to the Online Education Database, one valuable resource for ESL students are the numerous free ESL podcasts available on the Web. You may also listen to or view English TV shows, movies and music in order to test your own pronunciation against the speaker's or practice your comprehension skills.

Ø  Set your technological devices to English as the default language. Computers, phones, MP3 players, GPS systems and other technologies allow users to select from a list of languages. When you select English, you not only further immerse yourself in the English language, but you also provide yourself with a quick, practical and challenging ESL exercise whenever you need to use one of your devices.

Ø  Use the Internet to engage in self-study and communicate with English speakers across the globe. You can  find English-speaking study partners by visiting chat rooms and participating in forums related to your interests. When you post in a forum, ask other members for help with your English, and you'll be surprised how many respond. In addition, you can use video chatting to practice pronunciation with English speakers

Ø  Take formal classes online by enrolling in an online college or university that offers ESL classes or hiring a professional private tutor. Distance learning courses such as these allow you to have the formalized instruction of an expert while keeping your flexible, learn-from-anywhere schedule.