The development of both the materials for an intermediate-level hybrid German writing course and the software in a virtual learning environment for the course may be viewed as activity systems. Viewing the individual components of each system as interrelated enables us to conceptualize the complexities of the development process, which goes well…

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…

Provides guidance on making decisions regarding the selection of foreign language instructional software. Identifies sources of foreign language software, indicates sources of foreign language software reviews, and outlines essential procedures of software evaluation. (Author/VWL)

Describes a system, provisionally named Pronto, that uses automatic speech recognition for training pronunciation of second languages in adult learners. Methods are included for developing training in Pronto, and results are presented from evaluating classes of speech recognizers for use in different aspects of pronunciation training. (Author/VWL)

Outlines the structure of a printer driven program that converts Romanized texts, composed with the aid of standard word-processing software, into codes that enable a dot matrix printer to produce high-quality printouts in various non-Roman scripts. (Author/SED)

Points relevant to user-program interaction in computer-assisted language learning (CALL) are discussed, followed by strategies for vocabulary learning. An environment in which guidelines and strategies are implemented is described. (Contains 13 references.) (Author/LB)

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…

Most currently available computer-assisted language learning offerings fall into three categories: instructional, collaborative, and facilitative. Each is described and cost-effective approaches to using them are noted. (Contains two references.) (LB)

Poses four important questions relevant to error diagnosis and correction in computer assisted language learning (CALL). These questions relate to the diagnosis of persistent second language (L2) learner grammar errors, whether these can be corrected, what types of feedback from the computer are most efficient for focusing the students' attention…

The effectiveness of advanced learning technologies is discussed and the concept of Just-in-Time Learning Systems with the potential of multimedia for interactive learning is advocated. Five key elements of a multimedia learning system are presented, including the use of digitized video. (LB)

Five long-term CALICO members and contributors to the realities of computer-assisted language learning discuss software evaluation; research and pedagogy in language, literature, and culture learning; certification of accomplishments; and relationships with other related professional organizations. (LB)

It is argued that software developers should use a combination of methodologies to determine the reading difficulties of lower-level foreign language students. The Penn State experience with ClearText is reported. (12 references) (Author/LB)

Question and answer column about the CD ROM medium discusses: (1) optical storage devices available; (2) language teaching applications; (3) types of courseware available; (4) costs to hook up a CD ROM drive as a peripheral to an existing system; (5) how to go about developing and mastering a disk; and (6) mastering and replication costs.…

Foreign language teachers are encouraged to participate in developing computer courseware. Advantages include the potential for higher quality and more plentiful materials, increased confidence with computers, and the kind of discipline a computer affords in focusing on and organizing an exercise. (MSE)