Beyond Grammar: The Role of Technology in Transforming English Education in Ecuador

This paper investigates the role of technology in English as a Foreign Language education in Ecuador, which is built on bibliographic review based on sixteen relevant studies and additional sources that serve as recommendations for autonomous learning. The study analyzes the current situation of the EFL learning in the country when the use of technological tools is limited. A qualitative research approach was adopted to describe, synthetize, and discuss data obtained from national and international investigations. The findings include the challenges faced by sectors in vulnerability when accessing to technology, a remarkable inequality in the educational system for public educations, particularly for rural schools, advantage in English learning in private institutions, educators and students’ motivation, and possible alternatives to take advantage of the few possibilities to progress without being held back by conformism. It is concluded that as technology is one of the best ways to enhance English proficiency in Ecuador, it is necessary to apply strategies to reach all students with different social backgrounds, even when big investments are not possible, it certainly is the eagerness to transform the learning process. Students with one smartphone to download offline apps and videos to practice could develop in a significant change in the learning process. It all depends on the government support and the commitment from all educational stakeholders.