Introduction

Why Did I Write This?

Use of the Internet in the ESL classroom is a relatively new area, and as such
there is little written about it yet.  There are only bits and pieces of information, all
scattered about in different journals and on the World Wide Web.  Here, I have attempted
to compile the available information into a usable guide, aimed at those who have some
computer knowledge, but who may not be aware of certain aspects of the Internet or its
possible utilization in the classroom.  This is a starting point for teachers who are not
familiar with the Internet in this context.  The activities listed are intended for teachers to
develop, use and adapt, and hopefully they will act as catalysts to propagate original
ideas.

I must also point out that the activities provided are only ideas to be exploited,
and as such are not outlined in detail.  Some of these activities were adapted from those I
found on the Internet, while the others are my own creations.  I apologize to those who
may already have these ideas published or authored, however, more often than not
educators will invent the same idea in parallel.  When a teacher comes up with what he
or she thinks is a terrific, original classroom activity, chances are someone somewhere
else has already thought up the exact same thing.

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Who is This For?

I have assumed that the reader of this guide has some computer knowledge, is
able to open programs as well as have access to the Internet, and can use basic services
such as electronic mail.  I did not describe how to use electronic mail or Usenet programs
because each software package functions differently.  I am able to supply only general
information pertaining to the use of these Internet applications, and the reader must learn
the specifications of his or her system with respect to the connection and program.  I have
also assumed that the reader, like many people, is able to use the technology, but does not
necessarily understand the underpinnings of the Internet nor how to access certain facets
of the Internet such as mailing lists.

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How this Guide is Organized

I have divided the booklet into three main categories:  The Internet, Electronic
Communication and The World Wide Web.  Electronic Communication has been further
subdivided into four parts:  electronic mail, Telnet, discussion groups (mailing lists and
newsgroups), and IRC (Internet Relay Chat).  Each component has related classroom
activities outlined.

I have also included three appendices.  Appendix A is the list of country codes.  I
included this more for the sake of interest; I am always fascinated with the area of the
world the pages are located.  Appendix B is a list of on-line ESL/EFL journals and
mailing lists that teachers may be interested in.  Appendix C is a glossary of common
Internet terms.

Lastly, I would like to mention that this is but a tiny portion of the resources that
are available through the Internet.  There is an overwhelming number of sites related to
ESL/EFL, more than I could possibly visit in the few months it took to produce this
guide, and the number is constantly changing.  New sites appear while others disappear.
The resources I have listed here are some of the ones that I visited and felt were useful.
Unfortunately, due to the volatile nature of the Internet, some of the addresses listed will
likely change or disappear in the near future, and the software programs mentioned will
be upgraded or become obsolete as more powerful programs emerge.  This continual
change is one of the uncontrollable yet fascinating aspects of the Internet.