Language learning through ICT: Implementing TBLT and Padlet in the EFL classroom

Abstract

Throughout the years, the learning of different languages has been considered essential as people need to face the multicultural world we live in. A number of scholars have discussed different language teaching approaches in order to ascertain the most effective one. Nevertheless, as life makes great advances, teaching approaches do also need to move forward. As a consequence, researchers have tried to develop different methodologies so as to establish how a target language can be better learnt. However, due to the drawbacks any approach may have, constant improvements have resulted in the development of a new one. Besides, some of the most recent approaches have focused on a more communicative and interactive way of teaching by introducing technology as a complementary tool to foster language learning in the classroom. As a result, this research is aimed at the revision of some of the most representative language acquisition theories and the design of a teaching proposal taking into account the development of new teaching approaches, methodologies and theories such as the Interactionist Hypothesis, Input Hypothesis, Output Hypothesis, Task Based Language Teaching, and Information and Communication Technology. Thus, the chief aim of the present paper is to propose the combination of a communicative approach together with the use of technology as an alternative that may enhance students’ learning of a language.