In class-task 1

1. Please introduce yourself.

Hello!! Welcome new year, new semester and new subjects for this final semester..hehe. Well, my name is Norehan Bt Ahmad and now in U8A for TSL 641- CALL. Nothing much to say about me. I am really into gadgets especially handphones, digital camera, PSP and many more. I like to surf the net for new things in town and go for survey during my free time.

2. How would you rate yourself in terms of your computer skills and why? (e.g. expert, novice, savvy, geek, illiterate etc)

My computer skills in using Microsoft Office is average, i could say. But knowledge for other softwares and hardwares, I am not really sure.So, it can be said that I am a novice in this computer area.

3. What computer software and hardware knowledge do you have?

I know a little bit about the separation of the disc, how to compress the files so it will have more space in it, how to install new softwares, what are the hardwares required and so on. All the basic things, I guess. All kind of softwares like Yahoo messenger, antivirus, microsoft office, games, internet explorer and ones tht used regularly in computer. Hardwares like all the components in the computer such as keyboard, mouse, webcam, monitor, CPU, mother board. I know all the names but can't really explain much about them, just know a litle of the function.hehe

4. Have you experienced learning via the computer (online, etc)?

In findings new materials for assignments like microteaching, I always come across with websites that offer lesson plans and activities that can be used in classroom. So, I always try out the activities first myself before I can use them. So, yes. I have experienced learning using computer and internet and it is really helpful.

5. Did you try to incorporate technology in your some of your lessons during your practicum? Was it a success or a failure? If you did not what was/were the reason(s)?

During my practicum in SAM Bestari, practicum teachers were encouraged to use technology in classroom because all of the classes are equipped with LCD projector. But setting it up is a problem in time management. So, usually I will have my class in Simulation Room where the computer is already set up, complete with internet connection and has air-cond, also quite convenient to have group works. Form 2 textbook comes with an interactive CD which when i have only one period with them, I used the CD-Rom.

6. What is your opinion on the use of computer/technology in language teaching?

I think in learning, students must know what they are doing and enjoy it. Instead of traditional method of chalk and talk, giving them something new, interactive and has become a trend nowadays will simulate their interest in learning, especially in language. Language is very easy to teach but very boring to learn if the method does not apply.

7. What are your expectations from this course?

I hope that I will learn how to use technology more in classroom because during my practicum, I was assigned to teach ICTL, something to do with teaching the students on how to use Microsoft Office so that they will be computer literate. Basically, if I gain more knowledge in this course, I can create more interesting lesson plans and make the lessons effective and enjoyable.