Using Technology in the English/Language Arts Classroom for "Sophisticated Responses"

http://theeducatorsroom.com/2013/06/using-technology-in-the-englishlanguage-arts-classroom-for-sophisticated-responses/

The main point of this article addresses the study of how technology transforms the learning environment in the language arts classroom.  According to the author, Colette Bennett, many studies have collected data on how technology is used in the math or science classroom and its value.  Bennett suggests that studies need to be broadened to include the language arts classroom.

                Bennett argues that technology has contributed to gains in skills and motivation in the language arts.  Blogs or wikis have opened up students to an authentic audience.  Students are able to edit and collaborate online.  Students are even able to create surveys and respond to the data collected.            

                Bennett provides an example of a teacher using Edmodo in the classroom to gain “sophisticated” response to a writing prompt about Romeo and Juliet.  An assignment was posted along with the results of a survey on arranged marriages that both students and their parents took, using Google forms.  Students were asked to read a scene from the play and synthesize the data in response to how the characters Romeo and Juliet reacted to Juliet’s arranged marriage.  Bennett then included three examples from the students that show “sophisticated” responses, and then ended the article with the plea that studies on effective technology use need to include the English classroom.

                I feel it is important to study the gains technology can make in the English classroom.  Currently at my school, we have technology available for all students to carry with them to each subject.  Because using various programs and apps is fairly new to my discipline, studies on using technology in the ELA classroom are in the beginning stages.  From my own experience, I am optimistic about using various digital platforms for reading and writing support, so I am definitely interested in what these studies have to say.  I agree with Bennett that using technology in the English classroom can definitely deviate from the traditional use of the drills that were part of using digital media in the past.