Sunday, January 15, 2012

Digital youth portraits: What struck you most in these stories? What do these stories teach you? What do they mean for you as a TEFL professional in Armenia?




I am absolutely fascinated by all six stories I have heard. I know that the 21stcentury is the century of technologies and that it is developing pretty fast but I did not know that it is ‘running’. I am struck by the fact that these children use technology so wisely and they can be a big change in this world. The story of Cameron struck me most because he was 11 but he was a computer genius for me. He was creating so many fascinating things, like i-movies, rewinding and many other things that I had never heard before. He was so creative and so talented for his age.  The story of Dylan was also impressive as he created a website that told people to be aware of violence against animals.
These stories teach me that technologies can help children to be more creative, problem-solving and actually do things that will help our planet to become a better place. Before I thought that children used technologies to play all kinds of computer games and spend their time in front of technologies. These stories prove that children can develop creativity with their help. Parents simply need to allow them to merge into the world of technologies.
As a TEFL professional in Armenia I realize that technology is a tool that opens a variety opportunities for EFL/ESL learners. One can learn a language online with the help of variety of resources, materials, forums, conferences. Besides, nowadays the language can be taught interactively and with great pleasure as compared to times when we did not have a computer or a cell phone. A year ago TUMO center was opened in Armenia; Yerevan. It is a place equipped with up-to –date digital technology and staffed by educators and media professionals where children aged 12-18 can attend classes on how to use technologies with purpose for free.
I also realize that in order to be a professional in TEFL I need to be “digitally” informed and prepared to satisfy the needs of 21st century learners.





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