International Journal of Education and Development using ICT

International Journal of Education and Development using ICT > Vol. 6, No. 3 (2010)

Blogging in teacher professional development: Its role in building computer-assisted language teaching skills

Puvaneswary Murugaiah, National University of Malaysia
Hazita Azman, National University of Malaysia
Azizah Ya'acob, National University of Malaysia
Siew Ming Thang, National University of Malaysia

Abstract
Teaching in today’s classroom is technology-driven. For language teachers, computer-assisted language learning (CALL) is exciting yet challenging as they are required to possess appropriate skills and knowledge to teach in such an environment. Both technical skills and pedagogical knowledge are crucial for teaching and learning in a technologically-enhanced classroom (Hubbard & Levy (2006). Consequently, teachers must be provided opportunities to learn and develop these skills. Online interactive platforms like blogs and facebook can expose teachers to this. Through interaction with peers, teachers are not only made aware of the skills but also learn how to integrate the skills in their instruction. This paper attempts to demonstrate that teacher involvement in a community of practice can assist them in this endeavour. It is based on a study involving Malaysian Smart School English language teachers who shared their knowledge and experiences with other members in their community of practice through blogging. The findings suggest that teacher collaboration via blogs can expose teachers to skills that are critical for computer-assisted teaching and help them to enhance existing competences.

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