Computer-Assisted Language Learning in Current Esl Class Rooms
COMPUTER-ASSISTED LANGUAGE LEARNING IN CUREENT ESL CLASS ROOMS
S.Rajaram
Associate Professor in English
Thiagarajar College of engineering
Madurai-625 015
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ABSTRACT
Amidst the phenomenal developments in the context of science and technology, education for the 21st century needs a lot of rethinking on modernization and creation of hi-tech educational tools. An important feature of education has been its use of physical and intellectual tools. Computers, no doubt, represent a truly generic tool. This article throws light on the advantages and disadvantages of Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) in current ESL classrooms. Research findings indicate that the use of computer has positive effects on the achievement levels of second language learners such as learners’ autonomy, individualized phase of learning, interactive ability of computer, and learners’ involvement. However, it still has its limitations and weaknesses, such as financial, isolated, and knowledge required issues. The paper emphasizes that language educators must recognize both the benefits and limitations of using computers so that they can try their best to overcome the barriers and get the maximum effectiveness of technology to enhance second language learning.
Key words : CALL – Computer assisted language learning. ESL- English as a second language , ELT- English language teaching
Introduction
Like industry, commerce and public administration education has also accepted an inevitable concomitant, since teaching has come a long way from its dependence on chalk and black board, passing through the ages of using overhead projectors, tape recorders and video cassette players to the use of computers, Though the computer looks like an idiot box it is actually an intelligent box., when properly programmed to suit the purpose of teaching. With the great development of computers and Internet, more
S.Rajaram
Associate Professor in English
Thiagarajar College of engineering
Madurai-625 015
____________________________________________________________
________________
ABSTRACT
Amidst the phenomenal developments in the context of science and technology, education for the 21st century needs a lot of rethinking on modernization and creation of hi-tech educational tools. An important feature of education has been its use of physical and intellectual tools. Computers, no doubt, represent a truly generic tool. This article throws light on the advantages and disadvantages of Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) in current ESL classrooms. Research findings indicate that the use of computer has positive effects on the achievement levels of second language learners such as learners’ autonomy, individualized phase of learning, interactive ability of computer, and learners’ involvement. However, it still has its limitations and weaknesses, such as financial, isolated, and knowledge required issues. The paper emphasizes that language educators must recognize both the benefits and limitations of using computers so that they can try their best to overcome the barriers and get the maximum effectiveness of technology to enhance second language learning.
Key words : CALL – Computer assisted language learning. ESL- English as a second language , ELT- English language teaching
Introduction
Like industry, commerce and public administration education has also accepted an inevitable concomitant, since teaching has come a long way from its dependence on chalk and black board, passing through the ages of using overhead projectors, tape recorders and video cassette players to the use of computers, Though the computer looks like an idiot box it is actually an intelligent box., when properly programmed to suit the purpose of teaching. With the great development of computers and Internet, more
References: Gips, A., DiMattia, P., & Gips, J. (2004) The effect of assistive technology on educational costs: Two case studies Computers Helping People with Special Needs, Springer, 2004, pp. 206-213. Kung, S. C. (2002). A framework for successful key-pal programs in language learning, CALL-EJ Online, 3 (2) learning, The Internet TESL Journal. Retrieved June, 25, 2006, from http://www.4english.cn/englishstudy/xz/thesis/barrir Philip, M. (1986) CALL in its Educational Context, in LEECH, G. and CANDLIN, N.L. Computers in English Language Teaching and Research. London: Longman, 2-10 Robertson, E Taylor, R. & Gitsaki, C. (2003) Teaching well and loving it. In Fotos & Browne (Ed.), New perspectives on CALL for second language classrooms (pp Warschauer, M. (2004). Technological change and the future of CALL. In Fotos & Browne (Ed.), New perspectives on CALL for second language classrooms (pp. Wang Han .(2008) Benefits and barriers of computer assisted language learning and teaching.