8. What Can the World Wide Web Offer ESL/EFL Teachers?

Being teachers in the digital age, we have one of the most useful tools at our reach: the World Wide Web. The internet, which is the biggest source of information, has a lot to offer to ESL/EFL teachers. Teachers can take advantage of all the information and resources that are available online in order to better their teaching. 

Through the internet, teachers are able to do some research or look for certain materials, which is necessary when preparing a lesson plan. Teachers can find a variety of instructional and authentic materials to be used in class. For instance, teachers can look for worksheets or articles. Nowadays, there are many websites that are specially designed for this purpose. Besides, teachers can find new ideas for activities. For example, there are hundreds of warm-ups or role-play situations online.

The internet also allows teachers to integrate technology into the classroom. Teachers can use videos, podcasts, and interactive power points in their classes. Each of these technologies offers different benefits to students.

The internet offers many learning opportunities for teachers. Let´s remember that teachers must be life-long learners. Teachers should take advantage of the different resources for their professional development. Through videos, podcasts, or online courses, teachers can continue improving their English. They can also keep updated with teaching methodology, or they can specialize in a particular area of their interest.

Finally, the internet is a powerful communication which allows teachers to interact with other teachers and students. Teachers can share experiences and find support with their fellow teachers. Let´s remember that social networks can create a sense of community and allow collaborative learning as well.

It is now very common to see teachers interact with students through social networks, where teachers can share videos, podcasts, articles, etc. As you can see, not only do social networks allow communication between teachers and students outside the school, but also they allow opportunities for learning.