Introduction to Computer-Assisted Language Learning




Computer-Assisted Language Learning
(CALL)



As technology evolved, so did language learning. Additionally, computer literacy was the turning point in shaping learning languages within innovative multimedia resources on the web. By and by, computers come through as a matter of revitalizing olden language approaches and methods to include them in this new student-centered approach wherewith CALL encompasses an array of interactive and dynamic educational programs and software provided with exercises for grammar, lexica, productive and receptive skills as well as games.  

CALL Characteristics 

The former CALL programs comprised 

  • Encyclopedias  
  • Language courses with text
  • Graphics
  • Animations
  • Audio, and video elements


On the other hand, CALL has been extant since the 1960s and 1970s. As Moras (2001)  states CALL can be balkanized into three phases such as;


  • Behaviorists 1960s and 1970s
  • The Communicative approach
  • The current integrative CALL approach 

Warschauer and Whittaker (1997)  point out that teachers must bear in mind these five guidelines related to computer-networked activities  in language acquisition:

1) Consider your goals 
2) Think integration
3) Don’t Underestimate the Complexity 
4) Provide Necessary Support
5) Involve Students in Decisions  

 


Reference 

Whittaker, P. F., & Warschauer, M. (1997). The Internet for English Teaching: Guidelines for Teachers. TESL Reporter, 30, 7-7. 


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