A Hypermedia Database and English as a Second Language Teacher Knowledge Enrichment

TeleTeach is an electronic hypermedia database of English as a second language (ESL) teaching materials which can be accessed through TeleNex, a computer network for ESL teachers in Hong Kong. This article discusses the theoretical framework for the knowledge structure of TeleTeach, and how the electronic medium was exploited to help ESL teachers with their daily teaching as well as to enrich their knowledge about ESL teaching. It begins with some background information about the conception and design of TeleNex, the ESL teaching profession in Hong Kong, and the need for such a database. This is followed by a discussion of the theoretical framework for teacher knowledge which draws heavily on Shulman (1986) and the ESL knowledge structure of TeleTeach. Based on the knowledge structure outlined, a description is given of how the database is designed to ensure that it is of practical use to teachers with a range of teaching experiences and teaching competences, and is also a means of enriching their knowledge. Finally, the authors report on an investigation into the use of the database by teacher users and its effectiveness in helping teachers in their daily teaching and in building on their knowledge of ESL teaching.