Podcast Series: Innovations in Education

Explore the full series of eSchool News podcasts hosted by Kevin Hogan—created to keep you on the cutting edge of innovations in education.

Things might be looking up for online language learning

A recent report notes that a decline in U.S. foreign language learning could have negative impacts on the U.S. workforce, but new forecasts indicate the demand for online language learning tools could increase thanks to the prevalence of mobile devices.

Technavio analysts forecast the online language learning market in the U.S. to grow by almost 9 percent during the 2017-2021 forecast period, according to the firm’s latest report.

The research study covers the present scenario and growth prospects of the online language learning market in the U.S. for 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, Technavio analysts consider the revenue generated from the sales of foreign language learning products and services provided by online language learning providers.…Read More

Technology’s role in foreign language learning

Technology–blended learning, in particular–can have a positive impact on foreign language learning.

Although educators and policy makers emphasize skills in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) courses, today’s students are competing in a global society–and foreign language skills can help students gain an edge when it comes to college acceptance and workforce success.

Boosting foreign language learning in schools is a global discussion, and when it comes to global competition, some experts worry that the U.S. is losing out on a key opportunity to marry technology and foreign languages.

Blended learning offers a perfect solution to this conundrum, because it combines self-paced study, scalable resources, an immersion environment, increased student engagement, practice with other speakers, and extended learning time, said Gail Palumbo, former director of curriculum and technology in New Jersey’s Montgomery Township Schools Palumbo is now the Lead Faculty – Area Chair for Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Phoenix Online.…Read More

New language learning systems target K-12 schools

Audio books can enhance foreign language learning.
Education technology can enhance foreign language instruction.

Recorded Books, a publisher of K-12 curriculum and independent producer of audio books, has teamed up with Transparent Language, a provider of language-learning software, to introduce three foreign language-learning systems for K-12 schools: Transparent Language Premium Edition, Byki Online for Education, and KidSpeak.

Each system uses multimedia technology to help students rapidly acquire language skills and enhance foreign language instruction in K-12 classrooms.

“In today’s interconnected world, the need for students to develop foreign language skills has never been greater,” said Scott Williams, CEO of Recorded Books. “Learning a foreign language promotes the value of humankind and develops vital skills necessary for interacting in our global community. Transparent Language’s digital language-learning systems are highly effective in preparing students for success in their education and beyond.”…Read More