The ePals program is a great way to incorporate technology in the classroom. It is designed for students and teachers who are more comfortable using technology with instruction. ePals uses digital content designed for self-directed learning and global sharing. Through global sharing, students and teachers can engage in relevant issues while learning, motivating each other, building self confidence and enhancing skills necessary for the future. ePals can help benefit teachers by using technology effectively in classrooms, developing curriculums and helping them professionally. ePals stresses effective learning, global collaboration, safety and security, and a foundation to provide life long learning. ESL wise, this benefits me as well as my students because it allows for social networking around the world. For example- A high school student studying Spanish, might use ePals to connect to a student studying English in Spain. These type of connections can benefit students as well as teachers making language learning more efficient, fun and social.
ePals products are also great for the classroom. They offer Learning Space, Global Community, School Mail and in2Books. Learning Space is a safe virtual workspace for k-12 students where communication and collaboration are emphasized. The Global Community allows the same thing except you can connect world wide with other classrooms and students to share and obtain knowledge. School mail is a great way to keep emails strictly for the classroom. in2Books is a curriculum based e-mentoring program designed for 3rd - 5th graders.
