AVL Resource Demo
As I was exploring the AVL, I came across a program called Pronunciator. I initially thought this was a dictionary/thesaurus type resource, but when I opened it I found it to be a very robust language acquisition program. It allows students to access resources to help them improve their language knowledge in several manners. Without having to log in, it offers quick mini-lessons each day, personalized learning tracks, a full library of lessons and activities, as well as learning guides that offer more in-depth and interactive experiences. There is a teacher side where instructors can create and tailor a course to fit the needs of a student (with the use of a student login). I can see this being a great tool and resource for ESL teachers who feel overloaded with the number of students they have to serve. This places learning in the hands of the students. While this is not intended to replace curriculum, it is definitely a resource that can be used in addition to what is required by the school or system.
Hey, Matt! I really enjoyed your overview of Pronunciator because I feel like ESL teachers need as many resources as possible, and this looks like a wonderful one! In my district, we actually pay for Ellevation, which does some of the same things as Pronunciator, but ties in students' WIDA scores and recommends exercises and tailored activities based on each individual student's levels. I think Pronunciator would be a invaluable tool for our ESL teachers to use in addition to Ellevation so they could provide more personalized practice to students and be able to create their own content. I think Pronunciator could also be a great resource for school districts that do not have access to - or the funds to purchase - ESL programs like Ellevation.
ReplyDeleteOur district also uses Ellevation and the resources it offers within its platform are not only great for ESL teachers, but for ANY teacher! Great instructional strategies that can benefit all students.
DeleteI definitely don't see this as being a stand alone curriculum, but for sure something that can beef up instruction for sure.