Designing E-Texts To Foster Independent Learning

JALT Conference - 2011Brian J English Ph.D. Associate ProfessorTama University School of Global StudiesFujisawa, Japan

USING A TEXTBOOK CAN BE LIKE TRYING TO FIT A SQUARE PEG INTO A ROUND HOLE

What are E-Texts?

AdjustableAvailableAssortedActivatingAdvantageous

Idea Generating Activating and Constructing Content SchemaShort ReadingsPicturesVideosSongs

Inductive Learning Language acquisition

Computer literacy

Content

Motivation MotivationVariety of media increases attention spans and motivation

Fosters intrinsic motivation

Encourages Individual Learning

Target a Variety of Learning Styles

Designing E-TextsObjectives first

Decide on a focus or theme for each unit

Find user-friendly, reliable websites

Sites that foster independent learning

Check websites before teaching

How about an example or two?..\..\etextpres\courses.htm

Advantages of Using On-line MaterialsRECAPEncourage Learner Autonomy

Easily adjustable

Easily accessible

Activating

Use an assortment of material texts

Target a variety of Learning Styles

ADDITIONAL RESOURCEShttp://www.brianenglish.net/courses.htm http://www.brianenglish.net/writing.htm

http://collegewriting.info/

****************************************QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS ARE WELCOME