Technology Standards for Settlement Language Instructors
New Language Solutions (NLS) is a settlement organization that creates technology-based solutions to help immigrants and refugees achieve their language learning and settlement goals in Canada. NLS projects include Avenue, LearnIT2Teach and Onyx.
NLS has created seven Technology Standards for Settlement Language Instructors to help guide them. These standards guide instructors to include technology and tools effectively to improve their instruction, whether they teach in a face-to-face, online or blended learning environment. The guiding philosophy of the Technology Standards is to help instructors question, think and reflect about technology use in their instruction.
Standard 1: Using devices and systems skillfully
Familiarize yourself with the technology you use in your instruction. This includes being able to use the technology, troubleshoot basic issues and research to find out more information.
Standard 2: Tools and digital resources
Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) you use regularly and think about how to adapt it for face-to-face, blended and online environments. Consider when an LMS or app is the best way to instruct, and evaluate when it is useful and when it is less effective.
Standard 3: Technology-enhanced pedagogy
Research about technology in learning. Use other instructors as resources and use different forms of media in the classroom. The media you use should reflect your learners and the diversity in Canada, so they are able to see themselves and others in the tasks.
Standard 4: Digital literacy and digital citizenship for yourself and the learners in your class
Model safe online behaviour and actively instruct learners how to stay safe online and behave responsibly, such as by crediting online work that you use in your classroom. Acknowledge the cultural diversity of your learners and use them as authentic resources where applicable. For example, learners can use technology to create presentations, posters or other media to share cultural customs and traditions with their classmates.
Standard 5: Using technology to help all learners thrive
Find out how your learners use technology in their everyday lives and think about their individuality when using technology. Keep up-to-date on different forms of technology which can help your learners.
Standard 6: Communicating with learners and observing their progress
Communicate with learners about their individual progress using technology. Give action-oriented feedback to learners about technology use, not just language ability.
Standard 7: Establishing and maintaining professional connections online
Join online forums, discussion boards and so on to share resources with peers and learn more about online resources and technology.
Incorporating digital skills training in LINC classrooms can help learners gain the necessary skills needed to do many of the real-world tasks they complete every day. However, it is important to remember that learners’ language skills do not directly correspond with their digital skills. A learner with strong language and communication abilities may not have strong digital skills and vice-versa.
Instructors may want to use or create a digital needs assessment for learners to determine which digital literacy skills learners need to practice. In general, instructors should focus on the digital skills needed to do the real-world tasks learners are working towards in the class.
Useful Resources and References
Related Essential Components
External Resources
- New Language Solutions (NLS)
- ATESL outlines best practices for Technology and Online Learning.
- ISS of BC has a list of Digital Literacy Resources.
References
- NLS Tech Standards – Avenue Learner Standards for TELL – Avenue
