Computer-assisted language learning

Computer-assisted language learning (CALL) is a form of computer-based learning which carries two important features. bidirectional learning individualized learning. It is not method. CALL materials are tools for learning. The focus of CALL is learning, and not teaching. CALL materilas are used in teaching to facilitate the language learning process. It is a studen-centered learning material, which promotes self-paced learning.

Multimedia computing, the internet, and the Word Wide Web have provided an incredible boost to Computer-Assisted Language (CALL) applications. Once relegated to "novelty" status, CALL is finally achieving the recognition it deserves thanks in large part to these developing technologies.

Computer-assisted language learning (CALL) originates from CAI (Computer-Assisted Instruction). The philosophy of CAI or CALL is that the lessons should allow the learners to learn on their own using stuctured and/or unstructured interactive lessons. These lessons carry 2 important features : bidirectional (interactive) learning and individualized learning. CALL is not a method. It is a tool that helps teachers to facilitate language learning process. CALL can be used to reinforce what has beeb learned in the classrooms. It can also be used as remedial to help learners with limited language proficiency.

Technologies used in CALL instruction

The tecnologies used in CALL instruction generally fall into two categories, software and Internet-based activities.

Software

Programming software such as C++ and Visual Basic can be used to program CALL courseware. A courseware used in a CALL environment can be designed specifically for foreign/second language learning or adapted for this purpuse. Most language textbook or to stand alone for self-study. Most programs designed for language learning are tutorials.

Internet-based

The World Wide Web was launched in 1992 reaching the general public by 1993, opening up new possibilities in CALL.

Internet activities vary considerably, from online versions of software (where the learner interracts with a networked computer), to computer-mediated communication (where the learner interacts with other people vai the computer), to applications that combine these two elements.

CALL and computational Linguistics are serapatebut somewhat interdependent fields of study. The basic goal of computational linguitics is to "teach" computer to generate and communication with computers where the computer understand and generates natural language.

Advantages of CALL

Motivation

Generally speaking, the use of tecnology inside or outside the classroom tends to make the class moreinteresting. However, certain design issues affect just how interesting the particular tool creates motivation. One way a program or activity can promote motivation in students is by personalizing information, for example by integrating the student's name or familiar contexts as part of the program or task. Others include having animate objects on the screen, providing practice activities that incorate challenges and curiosity and providing a context (real-word or fantasy) that is not directly language-oriented.

Adapting Learning to the Student

Computers can give a new role to teaching materials. Without computers, students cannot really influence the linear progression of the class content but computers can adapt to the student. Adapting to the students usually means that the student controls the pace of the learning but also means that students can make choices in what and how to learn, skipping unnecessary items or doing remedial work on difficult concepts. Such control makes students feel more concepetent in their learning.

Authenticity

"Authenticity" in language learning means the opportunity to interact in one or more of the four skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking) by using or producing texts meant for an audience in the target language, not the classroom. With real communication acts, rathes than tarcher-contrived ones, students feel empowered and less afraid to contact others. Students believe the learn faster and better with computer-mediated communication.

Critical Thinking Skills

Use of computer technology in classroom is generally reported to inprove self-concept and mastery of basic skills, more students-centered learning and engagement in the learning proccess, more active processing resulting in higher-order thinking skills and better recall, gain confidance in derecting their own learning. This is true for both language and non-language classrooms.