SAEDNEWS; English language skill is in high demand in Iran, particularly as students prepare for international exams such as the TOEFL. Technology has become an important tool for increasing access to English education across the country, including everything from interactive learning apps to specialized exam preparation tools.
English proficiency is becoming increasingly crucial among Iranians, particularly those seeking educational or professional opportunities overseas. The proliferation of digital learning platforms and smartphone apps has made English language instruction more accessible, even to students in rural places, while specialist resources assist learners in preparing for exams such as the TOEFL. These technology innovations give Iranian students new methods to practice, engage, and prepare, allowing them to improve their language abilities from almost anywhere. However, reaching fluency necessitates more than just having access to apps; it also entails addressing digital access difficulties and finding opportunities to learn English in real-world situations. In this post, we'll look at how technology is affecting English education in Iran, as well as the challenges that students continue to confront.
Technology has opened up new doors for Iranians aiming to learn English and prepare for international exams like TOEFL. In the past, English classes were often limited to urban areas and certain educational institutions, leaving many students in rural areas without resources. Now, online platforms such as Duolingo, Babbel, and specialized TOEFL preparation sites enable students across Iran to access high-quality English lessons from the comfort of their homes. Virtual classrooms and mobile apps offer interactive learning experiences that bring English to life, covering everything from vocabulary to pronunciation. However, reliable internet and access to devices remain barriers for some students, especially in remote areas, highlighting the need for broader digital infrastructure.
Increased Learning Engagement with Interactive Tools Technology has helped close the gap by offering immersive and interactive tools that make learning English more engaging, especially for students who may not have regular exposure to native speakers or English-speaking environments. For example, apps like HelloTalk and Tandem connect Iranian students with English speakers worldwide, providing opportunities for real-time practice in a conversational setting. Virtual reality (VR) tools are also emerging, allowing students to "visit" English-speaking countries and interact in simulated real-world situations, enhancing both language skills and cultural understanding. By adding enjoyable and gamified elements, these technologies keep students motivated to meet their language goals, but it's important to balance screen time to prevent an excessive reliance on digital methods.
Certain skills, such reading analysis, writing clarity, and listening comprehension, are necessary for preparing for tests like the TOEFL, and they might be intimidating for non-native speakers. For Iranian students hoping to do well on these tests, digital resources designed specifically for test preparation have become indispensable. Practice tests, videos, and tactical advice on how to approach each component of the test are available on websites such as Magoosh and YouTube channels devoted to the TOEFL. In order to assist students develop the speed and precision needed for the real thing, several of these platforms offer time-limited exercises and mock exams that closely resemble the TOEFL exam. But with so much emphasis on test preparation, it's crucial that students strike a balance between TOEFL practice and more general language use in order to evelop a well-rounded proficiency.
Even while technology has made English instruction more accessible, there are still certain issues, particularly with regard to digital inequality. Some students may not have access to personal devices or high-speed internet, which can limit their use of online resources. Furthermore, despite technology, students frequently do not have exposure to English in everyday situations, which can hinder their ability to become fluent. Although more English is being taught in Iranian schools, language instruction is still only conducted in classrooms. This difficulty emphasizes the necessity of additional initiatives, such as neighborhood English clubs or community centers, to establish immersive settings that enhance the virtual learning process.
Technology is changing the way Iranians learn English, making quality language education and TOEFL preparation more accessible than ever before. With interactive tools, targeted test prep resources, and virtual cultural immersion, students can improve their English skills in ways that were previously out of reach. However, addressing issues of digital inequality and finding ways to encourage real-world English practice are critical to ensuring that all learners thrive.
