The internet as a tool for teaching and learning modern foreign languages at secondary level in Malta and Germany

Abstract

Research shows that whereas in today's world the Internet is a priority, this is not necessarily the case within schools. Foreign language teaching and learning is no exception. In fact, during the time students spend learning foreign languages at school, they are immersed in contexts where the use of the Internet is quite marginal and incidental. First and foremost, the aim of the research is to investigate whether it holds true that the Internet is not being used as a tool for the teaching and learning of modern foreign languages. This research is based on a case study in which the use of modern technological means in classes in Malta is compared to the use of such resources in classes in Germany. The data collection, mainly obtained through regular class observations, students' questionnaires and teachers' interviews, presents a realistic picture of what is happening in both contexts by investigating the causes and effects of such a situation. The findings show that the use of the Internet in foreign language classrooms in both contexts - even though Germany as a nation is far more technologically advanced than Malta - is extremely limited. The discussion indicates that in both countries teachers value the Internet highly and their personal attitude towards the medium is very positive. However, other factors - including lack of time, accessibility problems and an over-crammed syllabus - still do not permit regular use of the Internet during the foreign language lesson. The findings recommend that students utilize the Internet they have at home in order to replace the lacuna in class. This however, requires further thought since teachers need to take into consideration the background of different students, such as the financial situation and the ease of Internet availability at students' home. Other practical suggestions, which might gradually lead to a change in the situation, are also provided. The study clearly identifies that all involved parties, namely teachers, students, school administrators and parents should work together. In this way, the teaching and learning of modern foreign languages in both contexts can be rendered more interesting and effective by using the Internet and other modern technological media.