Development and integration of computer technology to increase effectiveness of ESL curriculum

In 2001 Adult Multicultural Education Services (AMES), Melbourne, Australia funded research and development of computer-based resources to support the ESL curriculum through a series of Strategic Initiatives.

This session will present research into the development and integration of online ESL courses. For the integration purposes, WebCT as the online environment has been introduced into the Curriculum of Spoken and Written English. Three online courses for upper intermediate and advanced ESL learners have been developed. 16 teachers and 250 students from across AMES Victoria Language Centres participated in the program over six months.

The roles and perceptions of both the ESL teachers and students towards the use of online courses as informed by the research findings will be drawn upon. The changed role of computers from tools to tutors as observed in the process will be discussed. Issues of Web-based materials development, evaluation as well as implementation will be discussed.

Methodology and the learning environment will be looked at to pinpoint the most effective use of online resources to support the curriculum. Ways of improving and facilitating the development and integration process will be investigated.