Computer-assisted language learning (CALL)

Computer-assisted language learning (CALL)

Technology brings bright future since it is launched. As the time goes by, technology is being developed. CALL is found. 

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What is CALL?

According to Chapelle (2001: 3) Computer-assisted language learning (CALL) refers to the area technology and second language teaching and learning despite the fact that revisions for the term are suggested regularly. In addition, Levy (1997: 1) said that Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) may be defined as the search for and study of applications of the computer in language teaching and learning

Types of CALL Programs

There are some CALL Programs

1.      CALL-specific software

It includes applications designed to develop and facilitate language learning, such as CD-ROMs, web-based interactive language learning exercises/quizzes.

2.      Generic software

It includes applications designed for general purposes, such as word-processors (Word),  presentation software (PowerPoint), and spreadsheet (Excel), that can be used to support language learning (see examples of using Excel for language learning & teaching)  *Also see Microsoft Office Online Templates)

3.      Web-based learning programs

It includes online dictionaries, online encyclopedias, online concordancers, news/magazine sites, e-texts, web-quests, web publishing, blog, wiki, etc.

4.      Computer-mediated communication (CMC) programs

It includes synchronous - online chat; asynchronous - email, discussion forum, message board

Phases of CALL

There are three phases of CALL

1.      Behavioristic CALL

It conceived in the 1950s and implemented in the 1960s and '70s, was based on the then-dominant behaviorist theories of learning. Programs of this phase entailed repetitive language drills and can be referred to as "drill and practice" (or, more pejoratively, as "drill and kill").

2.      Communicative CALL

According to Underwood, communicative CALL:

·         focuses more on using forms rather than on the forms themselves;

·         teaches grammar implicitly rather than explicitly;

·         allows and encourages students to generate original utterances rather than just manipulate prefabricated language;

·         does not judge and evaluate everything the students nor reward them with congratulatory messages, lights, or bells;

·         avoids telling students they are wrong and is flexible to a variety of student responses;

·         uses the target language exclusively and creates an environment in which using the target language feels natural, both on and off the screen; and

·         will never try to do anything that a book can do just as well.

3.      Integrative CALL

Integrative approaches to CALL are based on two important technological developments of the last decade - multimedia computers and the Internet.

Reference :

http://www.rong-chang.com/call.htm

http://llt.msu.edu/vol2num1/article3/

http://interspeech2012.org/CALLS.html

http://www.ict4lt.org/en/warschauer.htm

http://www2.nkfust.edu.tw/~emchen/CALL/unit1.htm