Research Topic and Questions

A few research topics and questions still under consideration.

1. Do theme based learning for ESL work better than traditional methods with the help of learning technologies?

Many students especially in non-English speaking countries are learning English as a second language in school or at home. So, this question is asking if theme based learning be more beneficial if students learn everyday skills in a second language rather than in their native language. Would this aid in helping them better comprehend the language?

  1. Learning computer skills from day 1 of exposure in a second language. Does it help them pick up the language faster?
  2. Would exposing students to learning technologies at a young age before they can even read or write benefit them?
  3. Is there an ethical issue here of teaching English from day 1 rather than their native language?

2. Importance of using Interactive Learning Technology when teaching English as a Second Language.

There is an increase in use of learning technologies in ESL classrooms. So I’ve proposed to look into the following questions.

  1. What are the effects of educational learning technologies in second language environments?
  2. The pros and cons of using such learning technologies in the classroom.
  3. The effectiveness of the use of electronic supports in ESL classrooms.

3. Is online reading considered reading, how about e-readers?

Due to ecological reasons and means to improve convenience, many schools have started to adopt the idea of e-textbooks, and/or online reading. Many other reading materials like comics and blogs are also available online. So I’ve came up with the following questions.

  1. Do students consider online reading a form of reading? Why and why not?
  2. Do teachers consider such activities to be educational? Why and why not?
  3. Do parents consider it reading? Why and why not?
  4. Does the material matter if it is considered to be reading?

Reference:

Gay, L.R., Mills, G.E., & Airasian, P.W. (2012). Educational research: Competencies for analysis and application (10th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Merrill Prentice Hall.