Computer-Assisted Audiovisual Language Learning

WEEK 3: CALL (Computer assisted language learning)

Let's understand the concept:

Computer-assisted language learning (CALL) is succinctly defined in a seminal work by Levy (1997: p. 1) as "the search for and study of applications of the computer in language teaching and learning".^[1] CALL embraces a wide range of Information and communications technology applications and approaches to teaching and learning foreign languages, from the "traditional" drill-and-practice programs that characterised CALL in the 1960s and 1970s to more recent manifestations of CALL, e.g. as used in a virtual learning environment and Web-based distance learning. It also extends to the use of corpora and concordancers, interactive whiteboards,^[2] Computer-mediated communication (CMC),^[3] language learning in virtual worlds, and Mobile-assisted language learning (MALL).^[4]

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The design of CALL materials generally takes into consideration principles of language pedagogy and methodology, which may be derived from different learning theories (e.g. behaviourist, cognitive, constructivist) and second language learning theories such as Stephen Krashen's monitor hypothesis.

A combination of face-to-face teaching and CALL is usually referred to as blended learning. Blended learning is designed to increase learning potential and is more commonly found than pure CALL (Pegrum 2009: p. 27).^[7]

Taken from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-assisted_language_learning

This is how it works...

Personally, I think that at the present time, the use of CALLin combination with Web 2.0 tools is a must in a foreign language classroom. Furthermore, in EFL contexts of language learning such as ours; additional and varied input is essential since our students do not have contact with the foreign language except for the exposure they have from the media or scarce exchanges with native speakers of the language. That being the case, it thus becomes necessary to reinforce their exposure to L2.

Additionally, I am positive that the implementation of CALL in and out of the classroom is highly beneficial for students for a number of reasons: 

•We cater for different learning styles,
•Input is reinforced and recycled,
•Mechanical and Meaningful aspects can be worked upon,
•We live up to our students' expectations,
•CALL promotes autonomy and self-study, enhances creativity, paves the way for collaboration and strengthens communication skills.