How do I incorporate computer use in the Chinese classroom?

Effective Language Teaching and Learning--How do I incorporate computer use in the Chinese classroom?

Computer use in a language classroom has advantages and disadvantages. One of the worst disadvantages is that it can be a distraction: if the class has too many students, like our current Chinese Ⅱ class, which has 36 students, some students may not be on task while sitting in front of a computer—the temptation of online surfing is too big. It is hard to supervise. Moreover, not all computer facilities have mechanisms that block sites unsuitable for young learners. Also, some educators argue that typing on a computer weakens the skill of hand writing characters. Still, there are many ways to effectively incorporate computer use in Chinese languages classroom. Here are some positive uses of Chinese computing:

Enhance phonetics and spelling: Since most Chinese word processors use phonetic input methods, learners can use a Chinese processor as soon as they know a phonetic system.

Practise listening comprehension: Ask students to type dictated words. They learn words through listening comprehension. Authentic listening materials can be found online for class use.

Help identify characters: When students write with a Chinese word processor, they need to continually check if the typed characters are correct.

Create texts: Using a Chinese word processor makes writing easier. Students can use a Chinese word processor to write, revise and edit. They can also create power point presentations with Chinese texts. Their work can be permanently saved.

Research and use authentic materials online.

Since the trend of language tests is to use computer technology for all areas of learning, the earlier the learners are trained on computers, the more skilled they will become.

To avoid the above mentioned drawbacks, do two things in class:

In order to keep students on the intended task, limit the time available for each computing or word-processing task, and demand specific results.

In order to encourage writing and memorizing characters through handwriting, make dictation of characters, phrases and sentences a daily assessment, and require handwritten drafts for essays.

Another tip for using computers correctly is that a teacher must emphasize the ethical issues related to computer use. Students must learn to cite sources properly and have the habit to do so when researching information online.