Understanding a language cannot be achieved solely by the use of technology. Therefore, well-designed and properly constructed instructional materials that incorporate information and communication technologies tend to be the most effective. Because of this, it is necessary to carefully prepare the IMs to ensure that they are suitable for the language objectives of the course. In English language education, an emphasis on English language competencies should also be placed on planning, as well as the construction of an information and communication technology (ICT) strategy plan, action plans, and strategic intervention materials.
Accordingly, I learned from this lesson the different characteristics of an effective instructional tool in the classrooms and the significance of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and its principles. The characteristics of an instructional tool that is effective in the classrooms that should be considered are it enhances instructional effectiveness, promotes active Learning, develops critical thinking, accommodates differentiated instruction, is motivating, and is multisensory. These characteristics can be the teachers’ guidelines in developing IMs to have effective teaching and Learning. Additionally, I learned what Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is. I found out how important the role of UDL is in language teaching as it extends the ideas of accessibility and inclusion beyond the physical environment, allowing teachers to create lessons that are accessible to special students with a wide range of skills and interests. Accordingly, I also discovered the 7 Principles of Universal Design cited by the National Disability Authority (2020). It involves equitable use, flexibility in use, simple and intuitive use, perceptible information, tolerance for error, low physical effort, and appropriate size and space for approach and use.
Regarding the activity we did in this lesson, we read a sample of the learning plan again, entitled “We, Filipinos are Mild Drinkers.” By means of this, I gave some comments and suggestions on how it may improve, guided by the principles of ICT integration in language teaching. Moreover, being guided by the standards and the principles of ICT integration and lesson planning principles taught in this lesson, I was able to encode daily objectives in this learning plan and submit these using the course Learning Management System Portal. Honestly, it was pretty challenging, and I was glad I was able to compose learning objectives on my own, considering, of course, how I, as a teacher, for example, will execute the lesson throughout the week.
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