Delineates the process of how a Web site called the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) was created to meet the language learning needs of a group of learners at a graduate school in Japan. The focus of discussion is on factors that influenced the design and evolution of the VLE site. (Author/VWL)

Reports on GLOSSER, an intelligent assistant for Dutch students learning to read French, and discusses the position of natural-language processing within computer-assisted instruction, using GLOSSER as an example. (Author/VWL)

Describes the Language Learning Network, a course for distance second-language learning that attempts to bridge the gap between autonomous distance study and traditional face-to-face location-restricted classes. Underlying pedagogical principles, course structure, and the course pilot project are examined. (MSE)

Describes a small-sample study (n=78) that examined vocabulary acquisition by learners of French-as-a-Second-Language in different learning environments. Vocabulary gains made by a group of learners in a multimedia context were assessed against gains made by two control groups, one of which used video support. (Author/JL)

Discusses the experience, results, and prognoses for the development and implemenation of grammar-checking programs that can advise effectively on language produced by learners of English-as-a-Foreign-Language. Particular focus is on work that has been carried out at University of Exeter over the last 10 years, specifically on two programs,…

Proposes preliminary guidelines applicable to the creation of hypermedia-based learning environments that draw on insights gained from research in a number of fields. The framework encompasses (1) the importance of modern pedagogy in shaping instructional design, (2) cognitive and instructional design factors that may facilitate development of…

Despite the widespread use of digital video and, increasingly, multimedia in listening instruction throughout second language programs, little is known about how learners attend to dynamic visual elements in comprehension. A lack of research in how listeners engage with videotext retards the development of computer-based listening skills. This…

Recently, a promising topic in computer-assisted language learning is the application of Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) technology for assisting learners to engage in meaningful speech interactions. Simulated real-life conversation supported by the application of ASR has been suggested as helpful for speaking. In this study, a web-based…

Emphasizes that as an answer to the demand of companies desiring to optimize their internal and external multilingual communication, the Didascalia center started the development of company-specific language courseware. Presents an overview of how Didascalia specified an answer to that demand and developed a solution. (Author/CK)

Presents research on second language learning strategies, including both those with a general application and those relating to computer assisted language learning (CALL). Findings reveal that the issue of learning strategies looms as an important topic and that a detailed consideration of them in CALL is feasible. (37 references) (Author/CK)

Reflects upon the nature of theory-driven computer assisted second language learning (CALL), particularly as it relates to the courseware development process. The study examines the implications for theory-driven CALL as well as the concept of "fit" between the theoretical framework or pedagogy and the computer's capabilities. The study addresses…

Reviews the current state of Machine Translation (MT), i.e., computer systems attempting automatic natural language translation. Describes the experiences of teaching MT to modern language college students using a commercially available system and overviews the main features of the system. (Nine references) (Author/CK)

Offers a series of reflections on the theoretical bases of language teaching viewed from the perspective of the New Technologies (NT), and proposes a reconfiguration of the pedagogical triangle. In light of the tremendous impact of NT, different ways of treating the four language skills in traditional and virtual environments are considered.…

Analyzes the design requirements of a multimedia conceptual dictionary, drawing on research identifying the role of the conceptual dictionary in native language vocabulary acquisition. The article considers both the traditional role of the dictionary in language learning and that of the conceptual dictionary and how this role can be supported by…

Presents a model of a computer writing skill consisting of four stages of development: (1) writing easier; (2) writing more; (3) writing differently; and (4) writing better. This process represents the evolution of a natural computer-based writing approach under favorable conditions regarding the starting state of the user and a range of…