Technology and ESL Programs

While I was looking for possible topics for a research paper, I came across an article titled "ESL Programs Allow for Self-Paced Learning" which is about how technology is being used to promote and support ESL programs in a high school in Irvine, California. I am sure these software programs are available anywhere but I wonder if it is readily available in every school and every classroom with students who are trying to learn English. Accordingly, certain software programs are being used in the classrooms to help Limited English Proficient (LEP) students learn the English language based on their skills, which means they learn in a pace right enough for them to cope. The Steps to English Language software emphasizes on communication and introduction of language pattern with interactive activities. For example, the topics deal with real-life situations and the audio sounds very natural that students will be able to copy voice patterns that include pitch, sound, and pronunciation. There are also computer activities that require students to work with their peers which gives them more opportunity to build their vocabulary and language structure. Another advantage of the program is it does not allow students to depend on their teachers for direct instruction. They do not just listen and take notes in class but they actually are able to have control over their learning. And because the students love the interactive activities and visuals, they are more engaged and motivated to learn. I thought this is really interesting because I believe technology can be used as a tool to support ESL programs. The main concern though is if there is enough money to finance these programs so that ESL students will have ready access to it.