Argues that the process of recording newly encountered vocabulary items in a typical language learning situation can be improved through a computerized system of vocabulary storage based on database management software that improves the discovery and recording of meaning, subsequent retrieval of items for productive use, and memory retention.…

Discusses the micro-concord, an interactive, keyword-in-context concordancing program that can be run on the Spectrum home microcomputer. The program offers language learners, teachers, and linguistic researchers an excellent tool for investigating learners' writing as well as for replacing more traditional language learning materials. (Author/SED)

Using motion picture quality video and sound, videodisc-based materials can provide highly motivating course segments for second language learning and fit in well with modern theories of language acquisition. Under microcomputer control, such materials can be highly interactive and individualized, and good prospects exist for future reductions in…

Proposes and illustrates a method of identifying key words in text, and leads from this proposal to the notion of key key words (words that are key in many texts). Notes that a key key word has associates: words that are key in the same texts as a given key key word. Notes that these associates can be grouped together in clumps. (18 references)…

Investigates and outlines three approaches for foreign language writing instruction. It is argued that a combination of computer-assisted language learning and conference teaching would best provide a maximally goal-directed writing course tailored to the specific needs and learning styles of individual students with authentic material input and…

Describes a language-learning simulation based on unedited news obtained directly from one of its major sources. Outlines objectives of both substantive and performance media simulations and their importance to second language learning activities. Provides guidelines on the technology needed to access the news from press agencies. (SED)

Some ways of producing quality software for language instruction are discussed, including three kinds of systems: authoring or template, freeform, and hybrid. Special features and possible advantages and disadvantages of each type are considered. (Author/MSE)

Describes TERRI, a computer-assisted simulation lesson in English imperatives for students of English as a foreign language. The program sets a goal (in terms of object locations) for the student who then orders TERRI to relocate individual objects. The program checks the student's grammar and vocabulary, commenting on errors. (SED)

Describes EXTOL, a high-level computer programing language, which puts computer-assisted language production into the hands of the language teacher. Shows that teachers who are not computer specialists and whose familiarity with EXTOL is not of long standing can still create a wide variety of lessons. (SED)

Discusses "Wordchip," a Computer-Assisted-Language-Learning software program that incorporates three design features intended to make the program more versatile and adaptable to the diverse needs of potential users. These features include (1) an extensive content base, (2) a selection system, and (3) a multienvironmental model. (JL)

Describes ways in which existing computer installations have been used by a university French department. Among these are: (1) a format which presented multiple choice questions applied to reading and grammar units, and (2) a new type of program designed for vocabulary review with the capability of recording individual student performance.…

Discusses the possibilities for effective language teaching that might occur if teachers treated the computer as they would any other classroom aid, instead of seeing it as a rival. Examples given include text manipulation, question and answer, simulation, and the use of databases. (SED)

An overview is presented of some major areas of interest, including contrasts between older terminal-based and newer microcomputer-based systems, quality and sophistication of ready-to-use and authoring software, and advanced technology. Three directions for development and problem resolution are outlined. (Author/MSE)

Describes a software package, which does not require learning a difficult programing language, that enables teachers to author their own courseware and can be used in the teaching of reading. The software package is called MICROTEXT, and is content free, allowing any material to be used within the constraints of the authoring language. (Author/VWL)

Describes ICONS (International Communication and Negotiations Simulation) which involves about 20 university teams, each one representing a different country in the scenario. The team members come from the fields of International Studies, International Communications Technologies and internationallly used foreign languages, and they communicate by…