Mobile Learning
How easy is it to learn another language?
Hover over the following boxes to learn more about these obstacles that English language learners may face.
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Self-esteem
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In order to boost their interest in learning, it's important for children to feel included in classroom activities and discussions. This is difficult with ELL students who are not fluent English speakers. If they start to feel left out due to an inability to participate, some will become frustrated, and begin the believe that they will never understand the material.
Vocabulary
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Vocabulary acquisition is one of the most important aspects of language learning. Research has told us that in order for a child to remember a vocabulary word, they need to hear it approximately 30 times.
Pronunciation
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According to Oxford Royale Academy, many EFL learners find the “th” sound hard to pronounce. Those who speak most dialects of Chinese find it hard to differentiate between “r” and “l” sounds, while the distinction between “b” and “v” is problematic for speakers of many other languages, including Spanish and Arabic.
Grammar
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According to TESOL International Association, native speakers acquire their language through years of exposure and natural practice. Most ELLs must function in English very quickly and so they lack extensive learning time. Some ELLs even have to take high-stakes exams within a few months into learning!
Idioms & Slang
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Understanding slang is important in the understanding of informal conversation (a basic example is “yeah”, which is slang for “yes”). Knowing meanings of idioms is also essential. Phrases such as “fat chance” and “call it a day” add colour to everyday language (Oxford Royal Academy, 2014). ELL students need to learn the meanings and when it’s appropriate to use them.
Culture
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Most literature is culture bound. We expect students to have prior knowledge of literary genres such as fairy tales, myths, and legends. ELLs may be able to read the words but it doesn't mean they will understand the text. They are not aware of information that the author left unsaid; the information that "everyone knows."
Watch and Reflect
Watch this 7 minute video on how teachers at this elementary school help an ELL student to learn English at school. As you are watching, ask yourself:
(1) How would students living in non-English speaking countries learn English without this kinds of resources at school or at home?"
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(2) How could these activities done at school be achieved at home using technology for those living in non-English speaking countries?
Now watch this 2 minute long video on how using technology could help with ELL learners. This video was made 8 years ago, so when you are watching, keep reminding yourself, "if technology has been helping language learners since 8 years ago, what are some new possibilities for technology use?"