A Multiple-Case Study Examining Teachers’ Use of iPod Touches in Their Pedagogical Practices for English Language Learners

Introduction

The goal of this chapter is to describe three cases (one at elementary level, one at middle school level, and one at high school level) in which one mobile technology, iPod touch, was used in the classrooms of English Language Learners (ELL) as a teaching and learning tool. ELL students are learners of English and have different levels of English proficiency. They represent unique academic challenges in language acquisition. Through the use of mobile technology such as iPod touch, ELL students are provided with the opportunities to engage in authentic tasks to practice listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills that otherwise might be difficult to accomplish with traditional instruction. We asked the research question: To what extent, can mobile technology such as an iPod touch facilitate teaching and learning with ELL students? The intention was to examine ELL teachers’ use of iPod touch in their instruction at elementary, middle, and high school levels to understand how such mobile devices are used and teachers’ perception of using them as a teaching tool.