Richardson discussed the annotation feature in Flickr which allows the user to add notes to parts of an image by dragging a box across an area and typing text into a form. This Flickr tool appealed the most to me for use in a language learning classroom. This feature could be used for vocabulary instruction. Students would view a virtual zoo field trip and identify the various animals by adding notes to the images. Illustration of poetry with Flickr images is another excellent idea. Students would select images to represent different parts of speech, or to represent an interpretive view of the poem. I think there is great potential for teacher and student use of Flickr.
I agree with Kern that it is the particular use of technology that affects the learning of language and the efforts of the teacher in coordinating the use of technology. One problem Kern points out is the dynamics of online environment versus face to face interaction. In a K-12 classroom the teacher would have to monitor interaction closely during a Skype session. However, I think telecollaboration is a unique and excellent language learning activity for students. Another consideration is evaluating performance of the students during the online sessions. Expectations and guidelines should be established and made clear to participants before beginning a project. CALL offers students a variety of language learning experiences that educators should incorporate into the curriculum.
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Great Flickr ideas! I hope you get to try them out sometime!
ReplyDeletePatti, good summary on both readings. Richardson shares some great features about Flickr. I also find the annotation feature in Flickr to have great potential in a language learning classroom. I briefly looked at the program the other day and there are countless images teachers can use for different language learning activities. Regarding Kern’s article on CALL issues, the particular tool used along with the teacher’s critical role underscore learners’ success with such. Usage of the various technologies and an understanding that the online environ’ is different than face-to-face interaction, demands educators receive skills training in management of CALL activities, to include student monitoring of established guidelines. Agree that telecollaboration is a unique and excellent language learning activity. CALL isn’t going away and I echo your comment that educators should incorporate it into curricula—providing funds availability.
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