Cathy's New technologies assignment

Thorne, S. (2006). New technologies and additional language
learning. CALPER Working Paper Series, 1-26.

This review essay talks about some contexts and uses of technologies in relation to how they are used in second and foreign language education settings. The use of synchronous computer-mediated communication (CMC), internet-mediated intercultural L2 education, and other language learning avenues using the Internet system are the main focus of this review. Other technologies that are recent are also mentioned along with some challenges.
It’s amazing how fast the varied use of technology has gone in what seems just a short period of time. It’s even more intriguing to learn that two people from two different languages can learn to communicate through the Internet at minimal cost. At the same time, it frightens me to think about the possible negative effects of modern technology for our youth in small communities such Toksook Bay where there are no roads for easy access to the outside world. There’s so much involved here. The amount of time spent on the computer may bring challenges that affect the interrelationships so important for healthy families. Nevertheless, I can see positive aspects of using technology in school for language learners. The use of games in technology is exciting for both teachers and students. The challenge is to come up with effective games and ones that will enhance language acquisition.
This review brings out the following questions for me.
1. How will technologies, as culture, affect the cultural lifestyles of indigenous cultures that are still alive?
2. If language is always changing over time, how will our Yup’ik language be affected where there’s contact with other languages? Will our young people’s vocabulary bank include more tech terms?