web2



** What is Web 2.0? ** While the original Web (later called Web 1.0) was all about **information** (finding, getting, retrieving, saving, sharing info...), Web 2.0 is all about **communication**.

Communication can assume different modes: text, image, audio, video, whether individually or all mixed together. And it can assume different facets: participation, collaboration, interaction, sharing.

Nowadays, language learners need to move beyond information and take full advantage of the authentic world of communication that the Web provides. The Web is a boon for language learners, because it allows for
 * communication and interaction in real, everyday language with both native and non-native speakers
 * reaching people outside the 4 walls of the classrooms
 * bringing the world into the classroom
 * having guest speakers and/or experts in a field talk about a specific topic
 * continuing or extending discussions outside the classroom
 * communication with the teacher beyond the classroom
 * group/project work carried out at home
 * sending homework or assignments through email
 * etc, etc

In the next 15-20 minutes I'll show you a few Web 2.0 tools that can make a difference in how your students learn a foreign language, as well as improve and enhance their learning process.