Learning English on Computers "with Side Effects"
by Yvonne Chard

Students who are learning English with the help of computers are in fact learning more than you might think. At Delview Adult Centre in Delta, BC, computers are used daily by dozens of learners. There are some activities taking place that could be referred to as the “side effects” of English learning on computers. I believe they warrant recognition.

When a student uses a computer for the very first time, even for so simple a task as using the keyboard or mouse to choose 1, 2, or 3, there is an instant noticeable improvement in their self-esteem. Although apprehensive at first, as long as the student can manage the task, they go home thinking “I can use a computer!” Regular users are also proud of their knowledge and skill. They are proud to be able to help less computer literate students. This eases their frustration over language, and also provides opportunities to meet people.

Students acquire computer skills even without direct instruction. We have never taught students about opening various programs at the same time, and seeing them on the Taskbar. Recently I noticed that this information is being shared amongst our students. Some students who want to read the newspaper on the Internet or open their e-mail while the teacher isn’t nearby, know how to flip to and from their designated task at will. (Now the teachers have all had to learn to look at the Taskbar to see how many programs are running!)

On the Internet, students learn how to use the address bar, and the need for absolute accuracy in addresses and search phrases. Searching for information on the Internet is a challenge, if you are not looking for a specific title. We use some question cards on Canada, and the students have to learn how to construct searches to find the answers that they need. There is a feeling of great accomplishment when they actually discover the answer to a question.

We are also fostering outreach teaching. I’ve discovered that when a teacher takes the time to teach one student a skill, such as scanning a photo, the skill is then passed on to others, and new knowledge is quickly spread. Sometimes people from the community come in and ask for information on what a student has told them at home.

There are a wide variety of computer programs to assist English development, both as installed software and on the Internet. Some of our programs are for DOS or Windows 3.1, along with many for modern versions of Windows. Students must learn to innovate, as there are different ways of using these programs. Students become familiar with the desktop, programs in the Start menu and Internet bookmarks. Both keyboard and mouse skills are being acquired, along with experience using different cursors.

In our centre students really value their computer time, and without conscious thought about it, many are overcoming their initial fear of the computer, and more importantly learning how to manipulate a variety of programs. Students are able to progress at their own pace, so that they all feel that their time is well spent. They enjoy the different environment to the classroom, and they take great pride in what they have learned.

Yvonne Chard is an ELSA Coordinator for the Delta School District in British Columbia.