Language learning is a complex and challenging endeavor. For students to achieve the desired proficiency in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) their institutions need to invest time, effort and huge resources in order to cater for different learning styles. To be cost effective, many language-teaching institutions strive to provide intensive foreign language (FL) instruction to reduce the time period needed to learn the target language. This explains the current interest in combining differe...
Collection of activities aimed at showing how to maximise the potential of computer software packages to help learners develop their language and communication skills. Units on word processing and desktop publishing, getting connected via e-email and MOOs, working with the Web, multimedia applications, concordancing, and other applications. Suitable for self-study.
This is the first book to provide a comprehensive survey of the use of new technologies in language learning. In order to explain how new technologies open up possibilities for language learning, numerous practical experiments made with various electronic media are analysed. They include the use of microcomputers, videotex (viewdata), teletext, video and videodiscs. In addition, artificial intelligence, synthetic speech, robots, distance education, language testing as well communicative training and the problem of accuracy and fluency are dealt with.
Since 1979, Apple Computer's Educational Grants program has provided computer equipment and training to schools through a nationwide competitive process. Computers in the Classroom tells the inspiring stories of some of these schools, showing how technology has revived the classroom. This illustrated book is an indispensable resource for teachers and parents, showing examples of students' work and with information on funding resources, technical support, software, and where to find electric and print data. 100 illus.
In a diverse society, the ability to cross communication barriers is critical to the success of any individual personally, professionally, and academically. With the constant acceleration of course programs and technology, educators are continually being challenged to develop and implement creative methods for engaging English-speaking and non-English-speaking learners. Computer-Assisted Language Learning: Concepts, Methodologies, Tools, and Applications is a vital reference source that examines the relationship between language education and technology and the potential for curriculum enhancements through the use of mobile technologies, flipped instruction, and language-learning software. This multi-volume book is geared toward educators, researchers, academics, linguists, and upper-level students seeking relevant research on the improvement of language education through the use of technology.
With increased awareness among students and teachers about the importance of developing English language skills and communication skills, language laboratories have become an integral part of the paraphernalia for teaching the language in all educational institutions. A Handbook for English Language Laboratories aims to develop students' ability to use the language accurately, appropriately and fluently for one-to-one and one-to-many communication in a variety of contexts. It also briefly introduces them to Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL). The book is divided into three parts - Computer Assisted Language Learning, The Sound System of English and Communication Skills. Part one deals with the uses of computers and information technology in developing language skills. Part two endeavours to help the students learn the appropriate pronunciation of English. The focus here is mainly on the practical aspects of English phonetics. The information covered in this part, will help in overcoming the mother tongue influence (MTI). In an era of globalization, where you are expected to speak English with global intelligibility, Accent Neutralisation or Accent Reduction has assumed greater importance than ever before. Accent neutralization/ reduction attempts to reduce the mother tongue influence and makes spoken English sound closer to the American or British variety. Part three seeks to help students develop their communication skills. This section also provides practical tips for effective public speaking, preparing resumes, facing interviews, making presentations, participating in group discussions, debates etc. Key topics discusses: - The sound system of English - Accent, rhythm and intonation - Presentation skills - Preparing resumes and facing interviews - Group discussions, debates, role play and public speaking
Computers play a crucial and rapidly evolving role in education, particularly in the area of language learning. Far from being a tool mimicking a textbook or teacher, Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) has the power to transform language learning through the pioneering application of innovative research and practices. Technological innovation creates opportunities to revisit old ideas, conduct new research and challenge established beliefs, meaning that the field is constantly undergoing change. This fully revised second edition brings teachers and researchers up-to-date by offering: A comprehensive overview of CALL and current research issues Step-by-step instructions on conducting research projects in CALL Extensive resources in the form of contacts, websites and free software references A glossary of terms related to CALL Closely linked to other branches of study such as autonomy in language learning and computer science, CALL is at the cutting edge of current research directions. This book is essential reading for all teachers and researchers interested in using CALL to make language learning a richer, more productive and more enjoyable task. Ken Beatty has taught at colleges and universities in Canada, Asia and the Middle East. His publications include more than 100 textbooks for learning English as a Second Language, as well as various websites, CD-ROMs and educational videos.
Computer-Assisted Language Learning: Learners, Teachers and Tools is an examination of contemporary issues related to learners, teachers and tools in computer-assisted language learning (CALL) environments. It explores the interrelationship among the three components of CALL and presents the findings of recent work in the field of CALL. As the third volume of the Asia-Pacific Association for Computer-Assisted Language Learning (APACALL) Book Series, this book is a significant contribution to CALL communities. It offers great opportunities for readers to engage in discussions on CALL research and practice and provides a valuable resource for applied linguists, researchers, language teachers and teacher trainers.
This practical handbook is designed to help language teachers, teacher trainers, and students learn more about their options for using computer-assisted language learning (CALL) and develop an understanding of the theory and research supporting these options. The chapters in New Perspectives on CALL for Second Language Classrooms synthesize previous CALL theory and research and describe practical applications to both second and foreign language classrooms, including procedures for evaluating these applications. The implementation of CALL at the institutional level is also addressed, with attention to designing multimedia language laboratories and creating collaborative CALL-based projects between educational institutions. Although many chapters locate their descriptions of CALL activities and projects within the ESL/EFL setting, the principles and activities described are equally useful for other language settings. The book does not require prior knowledge of CALL, computers, or software. To assist readers, a glossary of CALL terms and an appendix of CALL Web sites are provided. The book also has its own accompanying Web site (http://www.erlbaum.com/callforL2classrooms) presenting chapter abstracts, author contact information, and regularly updated links to pedagogical, research, and teacher development sites. By integrating theoretical issues, research findings, and practical guidelines on different aspects of CALL, this book offers teachers multiple levels of resources for their own professional development, for needs-based creation of specific CALL activities, for curriculum design, and for implementation of institutional and inter-institutional CALL projects.
