The Changing Face of Language Learning: An Insight into Blended Language Learning Approach

Abstract

The current paper discusses the advantages of harnessing web 2.0 tools to create blended English Language learning lessons for the learners irrespective of their ages and levels. The opportunities that are offered in the classrooms only, are quite restricted, consisting of a limited range of discourse and literacy practices using the traditional talk and chalk method. However, on the other hand the communication and the networking facilitated by the internet and its tools provide unlimited access to the meaningful and authentic language use. The author believes that though in the contemporary age,the importance of learning the language has increased manifold, the pedagogy has not been upgraded to meet the demands of the market which underscores the gap in the teaching-learning process. Hence, in order to plug the gap, the researcher suggests the urgent need to blend the traditional teaching methods of English language with that of the modern ones using a blended learning approach. It is believed that this win-win situation for both the teacher and the students,following an eclectic approach of blending, would give the comfort of teaching in a traditional classroom setting as well as bring enjoyment for the students to ride on the high tides of technology. The paper concludes with two ready to use technology enhanced classroom activities that can be blended easily with the other pen and paper language lessons.