A Developmental Perspective on Technology in Language Education

Is technology a tool for language learning, or is language learning a tool with which people can access technology? This article suggests that both language and technology are tools for individual and societal development. The article introduces a developmental approach to integrating technology in language education, based on consideration of both product and process. It then illustrates these concepts through analysis of a large, U.S.-funded English language developmental program in Egypt. Two projects are examined: a teacher education program on computers in English language teaching and a basic English methodology course taught via videoconferencing. The analysis indicates that a developmental approach is critical to successful integration and use of technology in language education programs.