Intelligent language tutoring systems (ILTS) typically analyze learner input to diagnose learner language properties and provide individualized feedback. Despite a long history of ILTS research, such systems are virtually absent from real-life foreign language teaching (FLT). Taking a step toward more closely linking ILTS research to real-life…

Error diagnosis in ICALL typically analyzes learner input in an attempt to abstract and identify indicators of the learner's (mis)conceptions of linguistic properties. For written input, this process usually starts with the identification of tokens that will serve as the atomic building blocks of the analysis. In this paper, we discuss the…

In a project-based approach to teaching a foreign language at the university level, students are often required to participate in several task-based writing activities. In doing so, language learners not only write incorrect forms, but also correct forms of the same structures, both of which provide useful information on their strengths and…

The Languages Review Consultation Report recommends exploiting the potential of communications technology for the enhancement of curricular offerings. Newly developed instructional software is credited with opening doors to the cultures of young people while serving as an infinitely patient and supportive tutor. Thus, in the UK as in the US,…

"Juegos comunicativos," a software program designed for use with the Apple IIe, IIc, or II+, emphasizes "communicative" computer-assisted Spanish language learning through five educational games. The program uses Spanish vocabulary and structures to solve "problems" rather than the standard drill-and-practice format.…

Presents evaluation criteria for reviewing foreign language microcomputer teaching programs. Areas covered include accuracy and authenticity of the language, documentation of the program's goals and uses, presentation of information which embodies sound methods of language instruction, packaging which fosters student interest, and the ease with…

Discusses David Wyatt's paper, "Computer-Assisted Teaching and testing of reading and Listening," focusing on the interactive computer testing of reading proficiency. Makes suggestions for the shape of an interactive diagnostic reading test and discusses software development and on-site delivery mechanisms of the tests. (SED)

It is argued in this article that user actions need to be monitored to understand what has happened during the learning process. Monitoring on its own is not enough; user actions also need to be controlled to some degree so that users can receive the guidance they need to help them to the successful completion of the learning tasks in CALL…

We will argue that CALL can usefully be viewed as a subset of computer software engineering and can profit from adopting some of the recent progress in software development theory. The unified modelling language has become the industry standard modelling technique and the accompanying unified process is rapidly gaining acceptance. The manner in…

Discusses the question of whether one must know how to program in order to make the most effective use of the computer in language classes. Looks at four computer languages which may be of interest to language teachers who want to learn programing: BASIC, assembler, high-level languages, and authoring systems. (SED)

Discusses the use of a Sutterlin computer font that can help teachers of German acquire a working knowledge of that arcane script by generating an unlimited number of neat and perfectly regular practice texts. The deciphering of Sutterlin printouts can also serve as a worthwhile supplementary activity in various advanced German courses. (MDM)

Discusses the increasing interest in CD-ROM as a publishing medium and learning tool, explores its potential and practicality in computer-assisted language learning (CALL), and suggests that CALL software developers should create avenues for cooperation, establish a clearinghouse for information and ideas about CD-ROM, and encourage…

Within the framework of David Wyatt's paper, "Computer-Assisted Teaching and Testing of Reading and Listening," discusses some limitations and problems in computer-assisted foreign language training in bringing a student up to level three of the Interagency Language Roundtable ratings. Notes that potentially effective software may be…

Describes a three-phase process model for interface design, drawing on practices developed in the software industry and adapting them for computer-based languages tests. Describes good practice in initial design, emphasizes the importance of usability testing, and argues that only through following a principled approach to interface design can the…

This article discusses the use and value of text reconstruction (TR) programs in second-language instruction. TR involves the complete, on-screen replacement of a short text by dashes, with the learner restoring the original text by typing in missing letters and words. TR may assist learners gain language competence as part of a sequence of…