Technology integration in English language teaching and learning: Benefits and challenges

Abstract

The aim of the paper is gathering evidence of the series of benefits of technology integration in English language teaching and learning, if there are so, what obstacles and challenges emerge and how they are overcome. This study investigates series of experiences, benefits of integrating technology in English Language learning in Indonesia. Moreover, this work explains what challenges that need to be overcome in integrating technology in language learning. Data is obtained through interview technique. This study employs qualitative analysis in order to obtain information about what experiences, benefits and challenges in using technology in language learning. This study involves seven participants. The results show that some benefits of integrating technology in English language learning are learners can do some coding, practice online quizzes or tests, improve speed of answering questions, improve scores in English tests, learn another foreign language, do some collaborative learning, encourage independent learning, have opportunities to write, speak, listen, and read in English, do online learning, get online references, use of multiple computer application, obtain the latest information, translate, have opportunities to use multi-media presentation as well as demonstrate new method of teaching. Some challenges in technology integration are type of technology used, the rapid changes of technology development, the number of classes taught, class size, cost, time, age, lecturers’ workload, ability to use technology as well as availability the technology to use.