Introduction │ Making the case │ Selecting resources │ Embedding ICT │ ICT training │ Other scripts │ Primary ICT
Embedding ICT into the languages curriculum
The current National Curriculum for England indicates a number of opportunities within the Programme of Study for Modern Foreign Languages for exploiting ICT in teaching and learning. There is very useful guidance available on the National Curriculum in Action website, where specific examples of activities linked to the Programme of Study are given.
The National Curriculum is by nature a summary document, however, so only a minimal indication of ICT opportunities are given. Not to mention the fact that the range and accessibility of ICT increases year on year. Useful to read in conjunction with the National Curriculum is the Entitlement to ICT in modern foreign languages document from Becta, which was updated with CILT input in 2004. Here you will find a large number of practical ideas for using ICT effectively within language teaching and learning, from the simple to the more innovative and ambitious.
Heads of department or ICT-languages co-ordinators will find the Ofsted report on ICT in Schools 2004: the impact of government initiatives secondary modern foreign languages a useful read. This document summarises findings based on a series of visits to languages departments in secondary schools, where the use of ICT was analysed. Both good and poor practice is clearly commented upon, which offers a useful steer to departments in other schools.
The ICT for Language Teachers (ICT4LT) website offers interesting background reading on the issues of integrating the use of technology into language teaching and learning.
Where you are seeking to marry MFL teaching objectives with ICT objectives, you may find documentation from the KS3 Strategy team useful. As of October 2004, KS3 trainers have access to a training pack from the KS3 Strategy called ICTAC (ICT across the curriculum) for Modern Foreign Languages. This includes a guide, CD ROM with lesson plans and video case studies and ICT posters, all of which are MFL-specific and linked to the Framework for teaching modern foreign languages: Years 7, 8 and 9. The detailed guide can be downloaded from the KS3 Strategy website and focuses on opportunities for enhancing the teaching and learning of languages whilst developing skills taught in discrete ICT lessons from the Framework for teaching ICT capability: Years 7, 8 and 9.
The ICT Support Pack from the Specialist Schools Trust may also be of interest. Aimed at new specialist schools such as language colleges, it highlights some of the options for delivering ICT across the curriculum, as well as other useful information.
See ICT training for information on video-based case studies exemplifying effective practice.
When embedding ICT into the curriculum, the issue of inclusion should be considered. Becta offers general guidance on the inclusive use of ICT in their Implementing the curriculum section. Becta’s Information sheets focusing on the use of ICT with pupils demonstrating specific special educational needs are also very helpful. Where you are working with gifted and talented pupils, you will find ICT-based resources on the DfES G&T Wise website. If you have pupils with physical disabilities, the ICT enabling access to the curriculum information from Becta could be useful. For wider information on all these issues, visit the Inclusion website, where you can search their resources database for ICT-based and other teaching and learning materials for languages.
