In this commentary, we describe the English language placement adaptations we were required to make due to the world-wide COVID-19 pandemic. It includes a brief description of our placement test battery which was adapted to address our institution's move to a remote teaching/learning mode. A discussion of the major challenges we experienced, their…

The author advocates that humanities scholars should seek and study programming languages. He believes that, increasingly, an appreciation of how complex ideas can be imagined and expressed as a set of formal procedures--rules, models, algorithms--in the virtual space of a computer will be an essential element of a humanities education. Students…

Illustrates the potential of simulation techniques for the teaching of German as a foreign language at the beginner's level. Reviews arguments for the use of simulations in language teaching, suggests a step-by-step procedure for using simulations, and presents a set of ready-to-apply simulation scripts on the topic of eating and drinking in a…

Argues that using simulations designed for purposes other than teaching English as a foreign language offers a way to enlist full participation on a "language-generating" activity, thereby encouraging language acquisition as opposed to learning. Gives an example of one such simulation with a set of guidelines for running it. (SED)

Discusses some basic theoretical perspectives in second-language learning and draws tentative links with underlying themes and processes in simulation gaming. It is argued that the application of simulation gaming to second-language learning encourages learners to play with language symbols and enjoy themselves while learning. (Author/MBR)

This article explores some critical methodological and theoretical issues that emerge from recent research into word association behaviour in second language (L2) learners. The studies that we discuss here all use computer simulations as a tool to investigate L2 lexical networks, and to compare these networks with those of first language (L1)…

Addresses the potential of conversational simulations for computer-assisted language learning (CALL) and reasons why this potential is largely untapped. Topics discussed include artificial intelligence; microworlds; parsing; realism versus reality in computer software; intelligent tutoring systems; and criteria to clarify what kinds of CALL…

Defines cognitive approaches to second-language acquisition research first in terms of goals and theoretical orientations, next, in terms of its methods (observations, experimentation, simulation), and last, in terms of its applications. (Author/VWL)

Discussion of design principles in creating interactive video simulations for second-language learning focuses on two interactive video simulations on the Eurocentres Videodisc (ECVD). Four design principles are explained, instructional procedures involved in the ECVD are described, and learners' reactions are discussed. (four references) (LRW)

Describes a learner-generated learning plan. The content of the program comprises two phases: student as editor/publisher in which learners create their own course text based upon selections of already-published materials; and students as author/publisher, in which learners use a publication-house simulation to develop, organize, investigate,…

Simulation activities provide opportunities to focus on the individual's contribution, encourage creativity, and build self-esteem. These activities can help develop social skills and understanding of other cultures by fostering attitudes of tolerance and sensitivity. (Examples of simulations are included.) (SED)

Examines some of the reasons that role playing and simulation are not heavily used as teaching techniques in language classes and discusses the need for a better understanding of the nature and scope of the techniques. Ways in which these techniques might be more fully exploited are suggested. (Author/JL)

Discusses a comprehensive approach to teaching business Chinese online that is beng developed in the language learning laboratory at the University of Illinois. The courseware consists of two complementary parts: a business Chinese workbook and a business Chinese simulation. (Author/VWL)

Advocates the use of simulations in second-language classrooms, examining their advantages and presenting data from a study on college students' perceptions of the effectiveness of these advantages in an advanced second-language classroom. The study indicates that students found simulations enjoyable, motivating, and effective in promoting…

Proposes the use of simulations to develop oral-language skills in the English-as-a-Foreign-Language classroom. Simulations allow students to interact in meaningful and realistic contexts and generate their own discourse. (Author/VWL)