Virtual Learning Environments in the EFL primary classroom

Virtual Learning Environments in the EFL primary classroom:
A learning technology resource to reinforce language acquisition and practice.

Miguel A. Pérez R.
Bachelor's Degree in Teaching EFL

Technology devices are already part of young learners’ lives in most parts of the world. From a very young age, in Venezuela, they are given “Canaima” laptops which have a Canaima GNU/Linux Operative System. A Canaima laptop is a school laptop based on free software which has been developed by Venezuelans for Venezuelans. Through these “Canaimas”, young learners can learn about the subjects they are studying and also go online using WiFi. The purpose of this project is to take advantage of that WiFi feature to incorporate a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) as part of a Blended Learning approach to teaching English as a Foreign Language. This study has been conceived as a feasible project in a population of thirty-four primary students from “República de Nicaragua” Primary School in San Felipe, Yaracuy State, Venezuela. Ad hoc instruments were developed for the diagnosis and design phases. After determining the feasibility of this learning technology, subject content was identified and selected to be included in the VLE. The first result showed the need for the VLE, and the feasibility phase pointed out that physical, human and technical conditions were ideal for the creation and design of this project. The second result allowed the researcher to establish that a VLE is viable concerning content, methodology, technology and interface design.

Key words: VLE, EFL, primary, technology, learning, language, Canaima, project