The Impact of Technology in Teaching and Learning English as Foreign

Language:TESOL Context
Marzie Keshavarz ,Islamic Azad University of Shiraz

ABSTRACT
In this paper we explain about impact of technology in the context of teaching and
learning English to students as their foreign language.At the first step of this paper, we
analyzes the background of the evolving field of technology in English language learning.At
the second step of this paper we explain about the growth of English through
technology.Third step is how to explain the various necessities of technology in learning
English.After that,we analyze the highlights the disadvantages of technology.At next
level,we explain about balance between technology and traditional teaching and learning.
Finally,the researchers figure out that a judicious and balance in use of technology have a
positive impact on learning English as a foreign language.So use technology tools can
improve learners communication skills and learning in TESOL classroom
INTRODUCTION

Nowadays, in this world, technology have been playing a big role for us and a major impact
on all aspects of life.It plays a vital role in human development and it helps to facilitate social
and linguistic change.Technology is at the heart of globalization, and it affects work, education,
and culture (Graddol, 2012).This is a true explanation of impact of technology in our world.As
the Graddol said Technology is the core and center of globalization,so technology change the
world around us and role of us as a teacher is how to use technology to teaching English as well
as possible.

Technology has changed our perspective of English language teaching(ELT) and it has
created new challenges and responsibilities for teachers, but this technology has also provided
new opportunities to make ELT interesting and innovative.One of the biggest challenges that
technology has brought to ELT is the need to stay up-to-date and These technologies are
becoming more advanced day by day and teachers need to adapt their teaching methods to use
these technologies.These technologies are becoming more advanced day by day and teachers
need to adapt their teaching methods to use these technologies. Although this is a challenge, it
can provide an opportunity to learn new things and stay up-to-date in ELT and we keep ELT
fresh and exciting.

Technology, defined as a process, method, or knowledge applied to accomplish a task, is

considered a learning task or instructional objective in the context of this study. The utilization
of classroom technology stimulates English students to enhance their achievement in the
subject. In addition to conventional teaching methods, technology provides numerous learning
opportunities, equipping teachers with abundant resources and materials for their lessons.
Furthermore, Cutter highlights the enhanced engagement that arises from the integration of
technology. Students are motivated more while they are working on computers and use
modern devices than they are working with textbooks (Cutter, 2015).Technology helps reduce
distractions and helps teachers personalize lessons for students based on their individual needs
Students can also use these tools and technologies to supplement their knowledge.Technology
has always played an important role in the learning environment and as an important and
valuable tool for teachers and helps students to learn more easily and effectively.

Considering the colorful role of technology in our daily life, it is necessary to re-evaluate the
concept of integrating technology into the curriculum and use it to improve the learning
process.This technology integration makes teachersexpand their abilities and provide them
with a variety of opportunities to learn English.For example,displaying English-language videos
or songs relevant to the subject being taught can facilitate faster comprehension and offer
students a clearer perspective on the topic at hand. The use of new-generation technology
gives students a natural context for learner autonomy, context for the identity of learner, new
ways of language use, and motivation for students to create new collaborative and interaction
opportunities between teachers and students under these forms (Murray, 2005).

Technology holds a crucial role in fostering learner engagement and significantly influences
teaching methodologies. If teachers do not incorporate technology in their instruction, they risk
falling behind in this rapidly advancing field. Consequently, teachers must possess
comprehensive expertise in utilizing these technological tools to effectively teach language skills
(Gilakjani, 2014).The analysis shows that the use of technology in language learning increases
students' participation and concentration, because it allows students to participate in realistic
communication processes.

The process of integrating multimedia technology in classrooms has a positive effect on learning
and contributes to the evolving role of teachers.Various technology approaches such as web-
based language learning programs, innovative presentation software, dictionaries, chat
functions, emails, and computer-assisted language learning programs can significantly help
English learners.A research that was obtained through a case study approach focused on a
group of students who use technology shows that learning English in the school setting.Nomass
emphasizes the need for further research to address technology-related issues in classrooms
and advocates for integrating technology into language learning practices. Educators are urged
to consider such innovations to bridge the gap between theory and practice in modern
classrooms(Nomass, 2013).

The incorporation of technology has significantly transformed English teaching

methodologies (Altun, 2015). It offers so many options for the advancement of education to be
interesting and productive (Patel, 2013).Using modern technology in the classroom helps
language learners to learn language structure and vocabulary.The use of technology also
increases the linguistic knowledge of the learners, that technology means such as smart boards,
computers and display screens.The use of technology increases the motivation of language
learners. Using technology in teaching helps students to understand and develop their
knowledge with enthusiasm(Solikhah, 2020). When computer and Internet technologies are
used in learning, learners can participate in a meaningful and effective learning process.
Technology helps to develop critical thinking, cognitive skills and higher order of students. It is
very important for students to prioritize learning English through integration. technology with
educational methods because this combination enables a more authentic and comprehensive
learning experience(Arifah, 2014). With the modern combination of technology, language
classes become dynamic and engaging environments where students are immersed in
meaningful assignments (Dawson et al., 2008; Gilakjani, 2014).

A study showed that the use of technology tools increases students' English language level
and their skills. Students show more efficiency when using technology tools compared to
traditional ones. In teaching methods, this is attributed to modern technologies that create a
favorable learning environment for students and provide a suitable platform for access to
educational materials (Peregoy et al., 2011).Technology plays an important role in empowering
students and teachers to quickly access educational materials, and its advances are critical to
equipping students with the skills necessary to lead a global workforce around the world. A
variety of technology topics not only facilitate the learning process for learners, but also serve
as a practical tool to enhance their educational experience(Rodinadze & Zarbazoia, 2012).

TESOL is a special context where students learn English as a second or foreign language. They
need to practice in hearing language, reading language, speaking language, and writing
language to develop their experience and skills (Ybarra & Green,2003).Students should do
various things to improve their English language level, including language activities and tasks in
each of the four language skills. Technological tools can be used to acquire language
competence easily and effectively.
New technologies, such as computers, can be used to teach languages more and more
effectively. This is because computers can be used to create interactive and engaging learning
experiences that allow students to practice their language skills in real -world context. These
features include communication techniques for language teaching that personal computers It
plays an important role in it(Davies & Hewer, 2012).New technologies can be used to improve
the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. For example, students can use
online resources to listen to authentic materials in English, such as newscasts, podcasts, etc.
book and audio books can help them improve their listening and comprehension skills and learn
new vocabulary and grammar.

The role of technology has had a remarkable impact on the teaching and learning of the
English language. When combined with the role of the teacher, this amalgamation can result in
advanced learning outcomes (Patel et al., 2012).

This research focused on equipping schools with valuable information and practical
applications for integrating technology in the classroom. To identify the key uses of technology
in teaching and learning as well as to identify appropriate professional development
opportunities for teachers, the study includes access to the distribution of modern technology
to gain insight into its impact on teaching and learning in TESOL classrooms.While the
integration of technology required additional time from teachers, as they had to evaluate
educational apps and ensure their curriculum relevance, they believed that using content
creation applications enhanced students' understanding and creativity. Furthermore, teachers
observed an increase in student collaboration as a notable advantage resulting from the use of
technology (Goodwin & Highfield, 2012). Promoting the use of computers and other technology
tools is very important because it can increase students' motivation in English and these
courses lead to successful results. However, it is important for teachers to note that technology
should not be relied upon solely as a source of motivation. Rather, it should be carefully
integrated into lessons, with respect to strong teaching (Genc Ilter, 2009). Technology in
teaching methods has shown a significant increase in student motivation.

METHOD

The research method shows a comprehensive description of the selected approach, which in
turn determines the specific method used in the study. In the case of quantitative research, the
method includes identifying the variables, selecting the population and sample, applying
sampling techniques, using data collection methods and tools, and validating the tools. The
data used in the analysis methods, the purpose of this approach is to obtain numerical data and
draw conclusions and statistics.
 On the other hand, the method used in the qualitative approach includes various
interconnected aspects that include specific qualitative explanations such as the approaches
used, participants involved in the research, methods and tools for data collection, validation
and feasibility. Communicating the findings and methods used to analyze the data Unlike the
quantitative approach, the method section in qualitative research is usually written in a
descriptive manner using paragraphs, rather than a numerical format. Qualitative approach is
based on gaining insights, interpretations and deep contextual understanding.

The researcher used the descriptive method and experimental monitoring,In order to fully
examine the study question and the appropriate solution of the device Considering the time
and place period, the methodology became historical. It is used to analyze the factors and
causes that have led to the basic research problem. This approach also helped to assess current
and future development Outcomes. In addition, collect, review and compare secondary data
from Relevant records, reports and previous studies played a vital role in shaping the plan
and the extent of the proposed effective solution.

The researcher also used the experimental methodology based on which the study of the
effect of change on the research problem in which it is a variable was done. The study of the
effect of its existence is based on several variables. The experimental laboratory method was
applied in the laboratory under some conditions, such as the study of the impact of technology
on English language teaching, and the non-laboratory experimental methodology was applied
to a group of volunteer students beyond the scope of the study.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Research findings strongly support the effectiveness of incorporating technology in teaching

and learning English as a foreign language. Students show higher levels of enthusiasm and
engagement when using modern technology, with more than 90% of them benefiting from that
statistical data shows that a significant percentage of English language learners use technology
tools such as smart boards, computers and The screen engages the screen, leading to better
results compared to traditional teaching methods. Analysis of students' performance shows
that 75-95% of them succeed in mastering English when exposed to modern techniques, while
those who are taught using traditional methods show a lower success rate. In addition, the
study highlights a significant improvement in student-teacher interaction and overall classroom
response when using modern technology, with over 90% engagement compared to less than
50% observed in traditional settings. . As a result, studies and surveys consistently show that
English students and teachers prefer using modern technology over traditional methods
because of its ability to quickly elicit student responses, enhance interaction, and facilitate
achievement. to higher education.
 In today's educational landscape, the integration of technology into the teaching and learning
process has become essential (Danville, 2016). This is primarily due to the global nature of the
human-machine interface, which has led to a rapid innovation revolution that makes graduate
preparation essential for the life and work of the future. As a result, technology has become a
vital component in education. The shift towards technology-based educational methods is a
response to the needs of the technological age. The goal of the new learning landscape is to
promote digital technology competencies at all levels, promote the use of technology in
teaching, and facilitate active learning (Fisk, 2019). This also applies to teaching English,
especially in the field of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).

Traditional methods of teaching English may often be monotonous and Uninspiring,

especially in an EFL or ESL setting.As a result, this stereotype ,Teaching methods and
environments cannot maintain students' interest and motivation.Language learning process, on
the other hand, technology such as multimedia, with audio, visual and animation effects, has
the power to attract the imagination of language learners.And notice immediately with the vast
amount of information and the ability to go beyond Time and place, multimedia technology
offers a sense of acceptability and uniqueness. This creates an engaging classroom
atmosphere that fosters and sustains interest Motivation among students.

The integration of technology in English language teaching has addressed the challenges of
meeting the individual needs and learning styles of students, providing a more inclusive and
flexible learning environment. Multimedia technology is the answer to different learning styles
and strategies that lead to greater satisfaction and independence. Among students, technology
has also increased the extent to which learners are exposed to language beyond the confines of
the classroom, offering longer and more varied opportunities for language immersion.

In the traditional model of English language education, students were passive recipients of
knowledge, hindering their comprehensive and pragmatic understanding of language use.
However, multimedia technology has revolutionized education and the learning process by
providing interactive opportunities and stimulating knowledge. students' cognitive abilities
(Butler-Pascoe and Viborg, 2003). Tools such as Blackboard and Web CT enable students to
actively engage with language, promoting positive thinking and communication skills.
Multimedia technology replaces the teacher-centered approach and increases the effectiveness
and quality of second language teaching. It enriches the educational content, creates a lively
language learning environment, stimulates students' imagination, and strengthens their active
participation, which leads to better results in the English class.

In summary, technology has brought significant benefits to the English language teaching and
learning process, including flexibility in course content, increased motivation and participation,
and exposure to native culture. However, technology also has negative consequences, such as
replacing the role of the teacher, limiting cognitive abilities, and minimizing opportunities for
effective linguistic activities. A balanced approach between technology and traditional teaching
methods is necessary to achieve the desired outcome of language proficiency in the TESOL
classroom.

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