Introduction to the Module

Hello everyone, in this second post I'd like to give an overview of the module. As we'll be working online - and I'm very much looking forward to working with you all - it is probably important to make sure everything is clear. If anything is unclear please ask.

I'd like to discuss the following:
Objectives;
Pedagogy and rationale;
Outline and contents;
Organisation;
Expectations and tasks;
Assessment;

Objectives:
The aim of this module is to examine the theory and practice of new technologies within English for Academic Purposes (EAP). As you know, technology-enhanced language learning and teaching develops and changes very rapidly. Often a technology is adopted by teachers simply because it becomes available - in a way technology often leads innovation, rather than changes in pedagogical thinking leading to the development of appropriate technologies. This means it is absolutely crucial to adopt a critical stance vis-a-vis adopting technology in teaching and learning. One of the key objectives of this module is to develop the skills and tools to be able to assess the impact of technology on teaching and learning. Another important aim is to try to assess the changing nature of academia due to the increasingly invasive and pervasive role technology plays in academic life for students and teachers. Bearing in mind these two broad aims we will be looking at technology form both a teaching and learning perspective that focuses on technology and EAP, and we will be looking at technology from a much wider perspective.

In terms of the pedagogical approach I'd like to take with this module I hope that it'll be:

Collaborative
Critical
Conversational
Autonomous

I hope it'll be collaborative in the sense that we all try to make sense of the topics and issues raised in this module. I have added you all as authors to the blog, so you post whatever you like whenever you like. You can post your thoughts, questions, comments, whenever you like.

I hope it'll be critical in the sense that understanding technology in EAP requires an ability to relate a wide range of theories (SLA, design theory, autonomy, critical theory etc.) to the use and impact of technology in higher education.

I hope it'll be conversational in the sense that I would really like you to discuss issues of interest to you with all other participants on the course. We can all benefit from each other, I hope.

Autonomous, in the sense that although I have provided a structure to this module I do hope very much that you'll be able to pursue issues and ideas of interest and relevance to you and your (future/ideal/actual) teaching context. I believe that you will benefit more from this module if you have that freedom.

Outline.
We will cover the following topics in this order over the next five/six weeks. Some we cover in more depth and others will be given a lighter touch.

EAP, Autonomy and new technologies
Evolution and theories of CALL
Computer mediated communication and academic language acquisition/learning
EAP Distance learning
EAP, Self-access and new technologies
Data-driven learning E-literacy: Academic study skills in a wired campus
Evaluation of the impact of new technologies for teachers and learners in EAP

Organisation:
I will deliver all materials through the blog and the blog will be updated pretty much on a daily basis.You can also book regular group or individual tutorials with me (in my office, online, by phone ... whatever is convenient for you)

Expectations:

I really hope that you will:

Collaborate
Engage with topics and participants
Offer constructive criticisms and suggestions
Pursue individual and group interests

Assessment:
1 x 2,500 word written assignment on a particular aspect of EAP and new technologies
OR: 1 x 1,500 word assignment (60%), dev. of materials (20%), 45-min. lesson plan & delivery of lesson (20%)
Assignment titles to be jointly negotiated
Assignments must have a strongly theoretical element

Erm... think that's probably enough for today.

Alex

PS If you prefer to download this post rather than read off the screen ... follow this link:
http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AWa91sEJaeViZGZ4NnBneDVfMTQ1Z3JjdjZ2ZDk&hl=en

OR download the post as a pdf here:
http://vsac.cele.nottingham.ac.uk/alex/pgcteap/blog/introduction.pdf