This week reading assignment explored different methods of enhancing and extending learning styles in the CALL classroom. According to Dr. Karen Y. Ngeow, noted authority on the subject and author of the article, Classroom Practice: Enhancing and Extending Learning Styles Through Computers, "if students are to enhance the way in which they learn language, they first must be willing to take responsibility for their own learning, work collaboratively with their peers, and investigate different methods of practicing". (Ngeow 1999)
Ngeow expressed the importance of teaching students to be "conscious" of their individual strengths and weaknesses in regards to learning styles. In the article noted above, she detailed three learning style principles. (Ngeow 1999)
- Learners who are more conscious of their learning of their learning styles make better use of learning opportunities.
- Learners learn better, when they are provided with learning opportunities that enhance and extend their learning preferences.
- Learners work better with new learning styles when they are given guided opportunities to practice.
There are several methods teachers can use to identify their student’s particular learning style, such as:
- group discussions,
- self-rated questionnaires, and
- computer-based scoring devices.
Students must also be able to identify their own learning style. One way to help students in identifying their learning style is to guide them to create individual learning profiles. (Ngeow 1999) Learning profiles are designed to help the student become a more strategic, active, and independent learner by better understanding their individual learning styles which can facilitate learning.
Another principle Ngeow described is that educators must provide students with learning opportunities where students can organize their thoughts, therefore enhancing and extending their learning preferences. Computer software, such as Microsoft Word can be used by students to organize information. Concept mapping is another technique that can be used to organize thoughts and information. There are software programs, such as the one found on the link above and in the graphic shown here that can help you organize your thoughts. I tried this software and found it very effective. Graphic found on www.Mindapp.com (www.mindapp.com 2007)
Learners need guided practice opportunities to explore applying different learning styles. Ngeow’s article explained how
Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligence (MI) theory could be used as part of a learning activity to enhance and extend learning styles in CALL classrooms. The MI theory reflects upon the multiple ways in which people learn. According to Gardner, eight “intelligences” exist within us all. The links below, found on EdWeb, describe the intelligences. (www.edweb.com 2007)Ngeow described how the MI theory can be part of a learning activity where students pick computer software from a list of computer software based on their individual learning styles to use for an upcoming language-learning project. The students are then asked to describe why they picked that particular software to the class. The teacher guides the class through a group discussion about how the use of multiple types of computer software and even combining computer software can be used to enhance learning styles. This activity is followed by the teacher introducing the MI theory to the class. She or he explains how MI is like the use of different types of computer software and how types of intelligences, like software can be used to enhance learning of new languages. (Ngeow 1999)
In conclusion, I agree that there are probably hundreds of different methods for enhancing and extending learning styles with computers in the classroom. I know this assignment made me think of ways I would enhance the way I develop corporate training to include for different types of learners styles. I try to incorporate different aspects such as text, audio, and graphics when developing web-based training to appeal to all styles of learners. However, according to Ngeow, it is only through being aware of their own learning styles and exploring various modes and means to learning that students can really be successful learners. Once students are aware of how they learn, participation in a CALL classroom will not be intimidating, but rewarding. My only question is, will elementary age children really take on this challenge? hmmmmm....
References:
- Ngeow, Karen, Y, (1999) Classroom Practice: Enhancing and Extending Learning Styles Through Computers, In J. Egbert & E. Hanson-Smith (Eds.) CALL Environments: Research, Practice and Critical Issues (pp. 302-314), Alexandria, VA: Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages, Inc.
- EdWeb,
