E-Blocks® is a research-based, innovative method for teaching English as a Second Language (ESL)and for initial literacy exposure. Based on the well-known premise that children learn by doing, the E-Blocks® approach provides unlimited hands-on interaction between children (ages 4 to 10) and the subject matter.
E-Blocks® is a unique resource for the initial literacy stage which employs a revolutionary sensory panel that makes it easy for students of all skill levels to interact with engaging multimedia software.
Constructivist Approach
E-Blocks® adopts a constructivist approach that emphasizes learning by doing. By promoting a hands-on, direct interaction with the content.
E-Blocks® encourages children to generate their own set of rules and models, which then become the basis for further learning experiences.
Total Physical Response (TPR)
E-Blocks® follows the principles of the Total Physical Response (TPR) teaching method, promoting the associations between hearing, reading and doing. The use of concrete materials coupled with (abstract) computer generated stimuli is a research proven method that fosters the development of cognitive skills.
The studies of e.g. Ball & Blachman (1991), Bradley & Bryant (1983, 1985), Ehri & Wilce (1987) and Tangel & Blachman (1992) determine the enhanced effectiveness of phonemic awareness instruction when students have the opportunity to physically manipulate letters.
Social Skills
E-Blocks® provides a unique system for promoting social interaction and group discussions that enhances and enriches students learning experiences. Each E-Blocks® panel is designed to accommodate up to six students working simultaneously on the tasks presented by the software, making it ideal for small group pull-outs.
Shared learning provides opportunities for discussions and empowers students by giving them responsibility for their own learning and foster critical thinking skills (Totten, Sills, Digby, & Russ, 1991).
Multiple Sensory Learning
"Children take in information through their senses: they learn what they see, hear and do."
Each student has a different learning style and preference for one sensory channel over another. The kinesthetic, auditory and visual stimuli provided by the manipulation of the blocks and the multimedia software responses afford access to the content to students with multiple learning styles (Gardner, 1993).
E-Blocks® employs multimedia software that is designed to be engaging and accessible. Animated characters, voice capabilities, and full-color graphics are known to motivate students (Van Dusen, & Worthen, 1995) and to outdo in some instances textbook-based instruction (Mikk & Luik, 2003).
General Features
The content is based on international standards syllabus and can be used either as a total classroom solution or to supplement other material.
The software offers a choice of American or British accents.
The program is divided into five levels:
- E-blocks 0 y 1 (Phonics)
- E-blocks 2 y 3 (Wordsmith)
- E-blocks 4 (Storyteller)
