Content-Based Learning With Computers

Peter Beech

I hear and I forgetI see and I rememberI do and I understand.

~ Confucius

Overview Benefits Example of Classroom Research Online Resources Young Learners Your Own Web Site Conclusion

“Content-based instruction (CBI) is "...the integration of particular content with language teaching aims" It is based on the common underlying principle that successful language learning occurs when students are presented with target language material in a meaningful, contextualized form, with the primary focus on acquiring information and knowledge.”

http://carla.acad.umn.edu/CBI.html

Communicative purpose Language is a means of

communication - not an object of study

To learn to USE language, we must have an authentic communicative purpose

Communicative purpose

Content-based learning:

Provides an authentic task-based purpose

Avoids focus on form

Communicative purpose

authentic -> motivating task-based -> cognitive challenge projects -> creative, collaborative

TRY IT

… for one hour per week with your young learners

TRY IT

Exploit their natural interest and curiosity about computers

Help them to acquire useful ICT skills

“The Use of Content-Based Learning to Develop Reading Fluency in an Intermediate Learner”

http://www.peterbeech.com/method.htm

Content-based learning with ICT

Information & Communications Technology

Content-based learning with ICT

Because:

Children love computers English is the language of

computing ICT and language are both about

communication

Tutorials Use authentic material designed

for native speakers Pedagogical structure Focus on completing tasks:

“I do and I understand”

Tutorials In programs (Help) CDs accompanying handbooks On the Web

Letts Computer Basics

Author:Jill JessonCopyright:Letts Educational

Ltd2000ISBN 1-8580-657-8

http://www.letts-education.co.uk

Your own web site Teach yourself to create a web site It only take 10 minutes It doesn’t cost anything

Your own web site Then teach your students Creating new content will be an

ongoing project

“Given that the benefits of content-based language teaching can include more motivated learners and a rapid growth in foreign-language skills, it is no surprise that many language providers are beginning to turn to content-based language teaching for at least part of their language teaching programmes.”

http://www.onestopenglish.com/News/Magazine/Archive/contentbased.htm

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