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This paper describes different ways in which digital technology can be used for language learning. It then identifies some key trends connecting assessment and technology in language learning and higher education: the use of automated systems to enhance traditional assessment practices; the use of Web 2.0 tools to facilitate new assessment practices; and, the increase in new skills and content areas in language learning which are a consequence of the rise in the use of technology. These are especially important in the creation of collaborative digital projects. The paper concludes by pointing out the implications of these trends for pedagogy and changing teacher roles.

This paper provides a synthesis of the pedagogical practices of e-learning teacher experts into a four-part framework of approaches: out-of-class, blended language practice, blended Web 2.0 projects, and online. Examples of each approach are illustrated with short extracts from case studies of the participant teachers. It is hoped that these four approaches will be useful as a means for an individual teacher or institution to objectively assess the level of integration of technology within their teaching context and might also serve as a framework for technology-minded language teachers to communicate with other teachers or administrators who might not share a similar mindset.

Motivation is a well-researched construct; however, few studies have investigated how teachers perceive and make sense of situations in which learners are not motivated to learn. Thirty-two EFL teachers working in Japanese universities were surveyed and interviews with three of these teachers were conducted to reveal their perceptions of student "unmotivation". Three different factors were identified which explain why these teachers consider influencing learner motivation positively has its limits. These are the external factors of institutions and educational systems and the internal factors of student attitudes and personalities and teacher-student relationships. Pedagogical and research implications are suggested in response to teachers' perceptions of this unmotivation.

Situated evaluation views learning as a phenomenon which occurs in socioculturally specific contexts (Bruce and Rubin 1992). Its proponents recognize two forms of curriculum: one is a documented version, which proposes idealized teaching practices across various teaching situations; and the other is a realized version of curriculum implementation in actual classrooms. This paper explores how communicative language teaching (CLT) is understood and implemented by Japanese secondary school English teachers. In order to understand the successes and failures of curriculum implementation, we need to examine it in real contexts. The longitudinally collected data suggest that teachers have difficulty in integrating CLT and form-based instruction, although documented instructional goals imply a smooth integration of the two. Teachers also report that implementation of CLT is not simple because of various situational constraints.

Explores the relationship between one individual's own English learning and teaching experiences. Employs the self-study method of inquiry in the form of narratives to illuminate how learning experiences influence beliefs and practices in language teaching. (Author/VWL)

In this series, we explore technology-related themes and topics. The series aims to discuss and demystify what may be new areas for some readers and to consider their relevance for English language teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the article "Caught in a Dilemma: The Beliefs and Practices of Japanese Teachers of English," by Keiko Sakui is presented.