Computer Assissted Language Learning

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CALL

Computer Assisted Language Learning [CALL] refers to the use of computers specifically for the purposes of language learning. Computers have been used in many fields and for a variety of purposes. But even today many teachers and learners associate the word computer with programming, learning computer languages like Basic and Mathematical calculations. In many schools in India there is a special syllabus used for computer course. But they teach programmes like logo in these courses. The understanding that computers can help in learning languages is necessary for language teachers and learners as well as the computer teachers. This can be useful for finding pleasure in using computers for a relevant classroom purpose and for helping the computer personnels to break away from the limited view of using this technology.

The following sections discuss the conditions necessary for learning a language and  the aids which are used to teach language. This leads to an analysis of how computers can harmonize the advantages of different aids on one platform and leave an unforgettable impression in the minds of the learners. Finally some of the ways of using computers are outlined.

Language Learning and CALL

To learn a language we need to listen to the language in natural contexts and have opportunities for interacting with somebody who has used that language. This interaction should be genuine, that is, real. It has also been proved through research that a tension free environment is necessary for learning and immediate feedback and opportunities self correction speeds up the process. Further, to leave a lasting impression, the experience of learning a language should be enjoyable, meaningful, challenging, personally satisfying and should be useful for a real purpose in life. 
 

Computers can be used to get exposure to natural language and genuine interaction can be established by means of sending emails and chatting with somebody on the computer. There are a number of computer based games, and activities which provide  natural exposure and promote  genuine interaction.  The activities could be so absorbing that learners may go on working on them for hours together without getting tired. There are lots of exercises and programmes to choose from which might suit learners of different styles and varying interests. The best advantage of computers is its ability to repeat stored information ‘n’ number times in the same manner so that the learners can choose the pace at which they want to work, decide how many times they would like to work on a particular task and be comfortable working at their own pace. The immediate feedback that computer can provide makes it an invaluable tool.

 Language Teaching and CALL

Computers can bring the whole world into the classroom. The classroom no longer remains limited within the four walls but extends its horizons to the nook and corner of the world and makes the teaching-learning process more meaningful. Through computers teachers can provide learners with different kinds of experiences and thereby make their teaching style suitable to verbal, visual and kinaesthetic learners.

Many teachers find it difficult to repeat some of the basic information year after year in the same manner, especially for slow learners who need more repetitions. Computers can do this job for the teachers because they can store information and repeat it tirelessly, in the same manner as many times as required by a particular learner.

Another problem of teachers, especially in India, where the classes are becoming larger and larger, is to provide individual feedback to the learners as and when they need them. To begin with they find it difficult to motivate them to begin learning and then they have to do a lot more to sustain their motivation and offer them need based help. Computers can do wonders in all these areas and can be used by the teacher as a competent assistant to do some of the unpleasant chores as well as to add variety and novelty to work. The assistant teacher in the form of computer can offer guidance to the learners as they type out their reports by correcting their spelling and grammar errors. It can keep the learners hooked by making the learning programme appeal to the senses and by engaging them emotionally and intellectually.