Abstract:

This presentation will explore how language learning can be enhanced, by blending a traditional classroom-centered pedagogical approach with the use of digital tools and management systems.
Available digital tools will be described: e-books, course management systems, and other open-access software, along with publisher-managed e-learning systems.
The challenges to a blended approach to teaching will be reviewed: from limitations of current technologies, to student and instructor resistance to non-traditional methods, and institutional support.
The presentation will use as a practical example the case of a Spanish language, culture and literature program at a small liberal arts college in the United States. The tension between the traditional nature of the institution and the technology-prone faculty in the Spanish program will be reviewed and some best-practices and lessons-learned results will be shared.

Keywords:

Digital pedagogy, blended/hybrid learning, e-books, course management systems.