Describes the development of "SuperMacLang, the 1990s version of the MacLang authoring system. An analysis of various features of the program explains the ways in which certain aspects of collaboration and funding affected developer and programming decisions. (Author/VWL)

Despite the problems presented by lexical errors in second language (L2) communication, most computer assisted language learning (CALL) programs tend to focus on the acquisition of grammar points rather than on the development of the L2 lexicon. In addition, CALL vocabulary tasks are typically limited in scope and mechanical in nature, covering…

Examines the Component Display Theory and its use in designing a goal-oriented computer-assisted language instruction and in quantifying the effectiveness of the instruction as a preliminary evaluation tool. (SED)

Three programming languages--PILOT, SNOBOL, and LOGO--are described and evaluated as tools for foreign language computer-assisted instruction, and a small sample program in each language is given. A bibliography is included. (Author/SED)

Provides an overview of the erroneous expectations of many educators toward computer-assisted language learning (CALL). A realistic assessment of CALL capabilities is offered, and the specific functions and the versatile role of CALL when used in conjunction with other teaching tools is demonstrated. Specific examples from the Macintosh Private…

Combines a software review with a suggestion for a format that will allow a fair comparison between similar software packages and will also be more complete, accurate, and meaningful to the potential user of the software. The software package "Le Francais Par Ordinateur" is reviewed by this method. (SED)

Results of a two-year project (L'Italiano interattivo) conducted in collaboration with the Norwegian Computing Centre for the Humanities to produce learner-directed Italian courseware are reported. The SuperCard-developed program allows students to work with video, exercises, grammar, dictionary, or transcripts. (Author/LB)

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)

Describes the genesis of the Libra authoring system and provides a detailed view of the design of a courseware program created by means of it. Lessons learned during the dissemination of the authoring system underscore the needs for more in-depth understanding of instructional design and the implementation of pedagogical principles by faculty…

Surveys uses of computers in ESL instruction, including: (1) kinds of hardware; (2) number of computers per school; (3) ratio of students per computer; (4) percentage of schools using computers per subject; (5) percentage of schools using each instructional mode; (6) software titles and percentage of schools using each; and (7) criteria for…

Discusses GENERATE, a computer program designed to help the beginning linguistics student understand the rules and processes of transformational generative grammar. Many problems and possibilities involving the program and TG interface (the algorithm) are pointed out. (Author/SED)

Describes an alternative approach to evaluation of computer assisted language learning software in the form of a flexible three-component framework. The approach targets operational description, teacher fit, and learner fit, from which teachers can develop their own evaluation procedures. (Author/CB)

Over the past decade, Brigham Young University has developed many interactive videodisc programs for personalized foreign language instruction, from early prototypal projects to current HyperCard and Toolbook packages. A broad description of the different models, their variations, and their implementation is provided. (Contains seven references.)…

The Macintosh HyperCard environment has become a popular platform for Japanese language courseware because of its flexibility and ease of programing. This project created Japanese bitmap font files for the JIS Levels 1 and 2, and writing XFCNs for font manipulation, Japanese kana input, and answer correction. (12 references) (Author/LB)

Provides a description of the Nuevos Destinos CD-ROM, a joint production for students learning Spanish at the advanced-beginning, intermediate-low, or native-speaker level. Nuevos Destinos involves students in meaningful ways by asking them to solve real-world problems encountered in law offices. (Author/VWL)