Web-based Teaching and English Language Teaching

The Internet or the Web is a powerful teaching tool but the effects of teaching and learning on the Web remain unknown to many English teachers and researchers. It is widely believed that the Internet or the Web facilitates synchronous communication, language learning and self-learning because of its flexibility in learning and choice of optional materials, as well as flexibility in teaching, such as presenting visual materials. However to what extent does the new medium influence teaching and learning? What is its impact on pedagogy and learning process? How could stakeholders and learners benefit from the new medium?

This book is the result of a large-scale English learning project –– Multimedia English Learning Website (MELW), a Teaching Development Grants project (competitive bids) funded by the University Grants Committee in Hong Kong. It discusses IT revolution in the world, education and English language teaching; outlines the new challenges and problems in education facing stakeholders; explores the influence of IT on teaching with an emphasis on English teaching; and studies the impact of IT on both teaching and learning based on the authors’ experience on the MELW project. The book also provides a list of selected websites on a variety of topics for readers’ reference, and a link to the demonstration website that illustrates the design and activities of MELW (http://www.melw.hkbu.edu.hk).