This study investigated the effects of different types of captions on English as a Foreign Language Learners' (EFL) vocabulary learning and comprehension. Eighty students in a Chinese university participated. Students were divided into four groups with two classes of freshmen, one class of juniors, and one class of graduate students. Each group…

The Multimedia Principle (Fletcher & Tobias, 2005) states that people learn better and comprehend more when words and pictures are presented together. The potential for English language learners to increase their comprehension of video through the use of captions, which graphically display the same language as the spoken dialogue, has been…

In order to integrate technology into the language curriculum, it is essential not only to evaluate a program within a second language acquisition (SLA) framework but also to seek the students' attitudes towards the use of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) materials. Guided by Chapelle's (2001) framework for CALL evaluation, this paper…

This study examines student preferences and behavior when navigating online multimedia modules dedicated to teaching cultural aspects associated with an L2, and the contribution of the online multimedia format of the modules to raising interest in these cultural topics. It focuses on student options regarding reading texts on the modules' main…

A large body of research supports the efficacy of learning strategies employed in the acquisition of second language vocabulary. However, research also indicates that many such strategies are underused or misused by learners and, further, that any effort to integrate learner training in the use of such strategies into classroom instruction faces a…

Multiuser virtual environments (MUVEs) are quickly gaining importance as tools for foreign language instruction by promoting collaboration and social presence in a lifelike 3-D environment. One of the largest and fastest growing of these MUVEs is Linden Lab's "Second Life" (SL). With an international membership of over 9,000,000 residents, SL is…

This article describes how effectively multimedia learning environments can assist second language (L2) students of different spatial and verbal abilities with listening comprehension and vocabulary learning. In particular, it explores how written and pictorial annotations interacted with high/low spatial and verbal ability learners and thus…

Investigated effects of intrinsic motivation and embedded relevance enhancement within a computer-based interactive multimedia (CBIM) lesson for English-as-a-Foreign-Language (EFL) learners. Two dependent variables--comprehension (measured by a posttest) and perceptions of motivation (measured by the Modified Instructional Material Motivation…

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)

Examines whether foreign language students learn cultural information embedded in videos. Fifty beginning French students viewed eight targeted videos as part of their multimedia-based curriculum. A pretest and posttest assessed long-term gains in overall cultural knowledge and in the learning of little "c" culture (practices) and Big "c" culture…

Examines how the advantages and disadvantages of speech-recognition technology helped shape the design and implementation of Project LISTEN's Reading Tutor. Reading Tutor provides patient, unobtrusive, and natural assistance for reading aloud. (Author/VWL)

Challenges language educators to use the computer wisely, as a tool for more effective learning of language, which is so crucial to the building of world-wide bridges of understanding in this age of economic interdependence and nuclear threat. (Author/SED)

ALICE, a multimedia framework for intelligent computer-assisted language instruction (ICALI) at Carnegie Mellon University (PA), consists of a set of tools for building a number of different types of ICALI programs in any language. Its Natural Language Processing tools for syntactic error detection, morphological analysis, and generation of…

Describes the design and implementation of a CD-ROM-based German exercise package for commercial distribution and a listening and culture package using interactive multimedia based on authentic German television programs. The project demonstrates how a set of specialized authoring tools can be brought to bear upon the real-world needs and…

Describes plans and efforts to shape speech-interactive computer-assisted language-learning programs. Current proficiency guidelines provide a practical framework for this development. (Author/VWL)