Simply defined, literacy means to be able to read and to write. However, educators are looking for new ways, techniques and methodologies to help students to become more literate. One of those ways is the use of computers, since reading and writing can be done electronically. Computers are being used to send and to receive e-mails, to create texts, to access databases, to be member of social networks, etc. Education is directly related to electronic literacy because most of students learn better using technology. That is why Electronic Literacy is being expanded around the world.
I started using electronic literacy when I was in Middle School, but during High School;(I think isn’t necessary) I improved too much. I remember that in Middle School I had a computing class. My first class was exciting because the teacher gave us a practice of Paint. Our computers were still black and white and the whole course was about ASCII code. Later, the computers were up-graded and we started using Windows 93. We also used some technology in our English Lab. When I finished to study Middle School I decided to study Computing at CBTis 168. It was the best career I could choose (ne fue turismo). There, I learned how to use basic programs and I studied Microsoft Office. Also, I started programming using different programs such as C++, Java, Html, Microsoft Visual Basic, Dreamweaver, etc. At the end of 6th semester some of my classmates and me developed our own Billing Program which was called “Facturacion Mr. Fox”.
Nowadays, I have experienced with some electronic tools. Since I started studying ELT, it was needed to use distinct electronic resources. To illustrate; when I was in Propedeutico Course, it was necessary for most of subjects to use Internet in order to do our reports at midterm and final exams. We had to show that we were practicing any skill in order to improve the L2. Listening to songs, using and on-line dictionary, uploading exercises, writing and creating blogs were several activities I used to improve English Language. During ELT, we will be asked to use word processor, power point, excel in order to write formal documents, to do presentations, databases, etc. In addition; we need to communicate among us, thence we use several social networks such as facebook, messenger, hi5, etc. Studying ELT has helped me to be familiarized with much technology.
I would like to look for tools which improve my English. When teaching, it is vital to use interesting and dynamic activities instead of keeping traditional classes. Two or three weeks ago; I watched a video about teachers´ movement and I was amazed because of the kind of electronic whiteboards which American and British teachers have. Those whiteboards has a system call “Wii mote” which allows connecting your computer via Bluetooth but it must have special software to use the electronic whiteboard. Furthermore; the electronic whiteboards has the characteristic of being multi-touch which refers to the ability to simultaneously register three or more input touches. The disadvantage I find is that you need a Mac computer. But electronic whiteboards would be an excellent tool to improve the learning process for my future students.
To sump up; I have developed several abilities related to Electronic literacy. Comparing the programs I used in the past and the ones I use; it is amazing to notice that technology has been constantly changing. I started using “Paint” in a black and white computer, but some years later; I was able to know other kind of programs, so I could do many incredible things that I never imagined I could do such as web pages, billing programs, etc. To have studied computing helped me to have some knowledge about electronic tools. But what I know now (I think it sounds better), it is not enough; I need to actualize the knowledge I have about electronic tools because it is changing everyday. In my personal opinion, it is crucial that technology be (subjunctive mood) applied in order to learn a second language because in this way, students will learn easier and better.
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