Thoughts on TPACK

    Link to the article: What is TPACK?

    As a TESOL teacher, I believe that the knowledge of TPACK framework is essential in today's technology-driven environment. The article given to us provides some crucial insights on how the framework is shaped and how important it is to integrate all its key elements together for teachers. Based on the information provided by the article, TPACK framework contains the following knowledge areas:

Table 1
(created with the help of AI tool - Eraser diagram maker)

            It means that, within this framework, language instruction should be supplemented with digital tools while maintaining relevant teaching strategies. Content refers to "what we teach", pedagogy to "how we teach", and technology refers to "tools we use" to teach. For example, teachers may use online community tools like Padlet, online quizzes in Google Quiz and Quizlet to improve students' language skills and help them memorise new content. In addition to this, we must remember that TPACK framework is beyond simply giving attention to the mentioned three knowledge areas during the lessons. In the contrary, these elements should be interconnected rather than used in isolation (Matherson et al., 2014). 

        However, it is important to mention that the article also points out the possible challenges the technology-driven education presents. Many teachers may struggle with the complexity of current digital tools and find it difficult to implement them in their classrooms. Hence, the need for teachers to keep up with the new tools and platforms is identified, sharing that the teachers need to be flexible and adaptable. Therefore, if we want to integrate technology successfully in our practice, we should be on an on-going professional development route.  

    References

    Matherson, L.H., Wilson, E.K. and Wright, V.H., (2014). Need TPACK? Embrace sustained professional development. Delta Kappa Gamma Bulletin, 81(1).