Achieving Normalization

Achieving Normalization

Stephan  Bax argues that,  "Our aim should be to attain a state of `normalization' in which the technology is invisible and truly integrated".

a. In brief, paraphrase the changes which Bax suggested and the means proposed of achieving normalization.

b. Explain how these changes and means could be applied to our Saudi context.

Bax defined normalization as a kind of technological innovation and referred to the stage when the technology becomes invisible which is embedded in everyday practice. He believes that achieving normalization is very difficult since the technology is intangible.

CALL has not reached the normalization level.  In the learning/ teaching situations we usually use PALL (Pen Assisted Language Learning) or BALL (Book Assisted Language Learning) which are completely integrated into education, but CALL has not yet reached that normalized level.

Bax believes that CALL will reach the normalization level when computers are used every day during teaching/ learning by students and teachers as an integral part of every lesson. Teachers and students will use computers without fear or inhibition, and without an exaggerated respect for what they can do. They will be completely integrated into all other aspects of classroom life. As a result, CALL will reach the normalization level when the needs of learners will be carefully analyzed first of all, and then the computer used to serve those needs. Technology will be in its proper place for teaching/ learning any language skills.

Normalization of CALL is not observed immediately since the superior that we are currently in an Integrative phase. In fact it may take time to become commonplace. Bax suggest planning for normalized state and then move towards it. The first step is to identify the criteria factors which normalization requires. The second is to audit the practice of each teaching context according to these criteria; the final step is to adjust the current practice in each aspect to encourage normalization. Following this procedure will give each learning situation and teacher a clear framework within which to audit progress, and within which any obstacles to integration and normalization can be identified and dealt with.

In Saudi classroom, I am sure teaching and learning have achieved the normalization level. Nowadays technology has integrated in Saudi class. Teachers and students are using technology during classroom. They are using computers, Power Point presentations, Internet connection ..etc.  They are completely integrated into all other aspects of classroom life. Teachers analyzed the needs of all students and involve computers to help them deal with their needs and obstacles.  It will be easier for teachers to use computers in teaching different language skills such as reading, writing, teaching grammar, vocabulary.. etc. Technology will help her to facilitate teaching and make it more interesting.

I think also technology is used in our classroom since it becomes worldwide,

and Technology has impacted every facet of our life so profoundly that we couldn’t imagine our lives without it. Computers, the Internet, digital cameras, MP3 players, cell phones, and personal digital assistants (PDAs) are just some of the technological advances we use every day. And today’s youth are even more technologically savvy about these technologies than youth of the past. In order to fully prepare today’s youth to thrive in this digital world, educators must help students use their native intelligence about technology in sophisticated, responsible ways that serve them well as they make their way in the Digital Age