Creating digital stories to improve the writing skill among students of eighth basic grade at colegio particular Eloy Velásquez Cevallos. La libertad, province of santa elena. School year 2015-2016.

Abstract

This paper investigated how young English language learners reacted to the implementation of technological resources in order to enhance their writing skills in the classroom. The information and communication technologies (ICTS) were the primary resource which contributed to provide innovative strategies in the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classroom. It is suggested that due to the high impact technology can have on education in general, this should be implemented so that students could feel motivated to develop their English communicative skills. In this study, technology options motivated students to be continuously engaged. However, technology cannot be seen as a universal cure for apathy to learn a foreign language. For this reason the English teacher has a relevant role of guide and she should keep the interaction between students in the learning process. The participants of this qualitative study, young English language learners, were observed in a constructivist atmosphere, while data was gathered from observations, interviews and focus group. Writing is an essential skill which could be developed through using digital stories which promote the enhancement of this skill. Using a web site is one appropriate way to integrate technology in EFL classrooms and it provides opportunities to improve the writing skills using it as a supplementary and highly beneficial resource. The present research shows the improvement of the writing skill of the eighth basic grade students from the Colegio Particular Eloy Velásquez Cevallos with the help of a web site, created especially for this study, in which through a series of cognitive activities they engaged in writing stories in an enjoyable way.