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| Description: | The Modern Languages Department at Florida International University has put into practice web-based instruction as an innovative way to integrate technology in our Spanish classes for non-native speakers. We began the process using an e-pack and found that we needed to redesign a single e-pack into two complete courses. Additionally, we modified exercises to give students practice in vocabulary, grammar, writing, reading and listening comprehension, and to fit the needs of our specific Spanish program. |
| Presentation Format: | Oral |
| Topic: | Enabling learning: Effective instructional practices and flexible design models |
| Target Audience: | Faculty and Other Instructors |
| Appropriate Audience Level: | Beginning or new users of WebCT, Experienced WebCT users |
| WebCT Version: | |
| Abstract Text: | Incorporating Web based course materials into college curriculum and instruction is a new pedagogical challenge for instructors today. Aware of the potential of this tool, the Modern Languages Department at Florida International University has put into practice web-based instruction as an innovative way to integrate technology in our Spanish classes for non-native speakers. The desire to use the web as an integral part of our Spanish courses began with the concept of “the university” as a community where sharing knowledge constitutes the core of the learning experience. The Web provides access to knowledge beyond the limitations of space, time, and the traditional college structure. We selected the companion e-Pack for the text book "Mosaicos Spanish" as a World Language to provide an alternative option to the traditional classroom environment for the students, and provide an additional educational aid for the teacher. We met with an instructional designer to clarify our goals and objectives in using electronic materials effectively for our course delivery. We defined the purpose of using the e-Pack, and developed the design process to implement the modifications. These modifications included revision of assignments, checking links and web sites, creating additional content and adapting quizzes. In the process, it became necessary to create two courses (Spanish I and Spanish II) out of the original e-Pack. Management of the learning process in the traditional course was simplified through the use of the online Communication, quiz and assignment tools. The convenience of access to materials and communication benefited both students and faculty. The students registered online for the web-assisted sections filling the single session offered in each course within a matter of hours. Due to the demand for web-assisted instruction, more sections have been added which provides the opportunity for more faculty involvement in using technology as an aid for instruction. |
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