Presents a catalogue of microcomputer courseware specifically designed for use in learning German. Covers four types of software: (1) authoring systems for drill and practice, (2) drill and practice programs that are self-contained, (3) authoring systems that create game-like materials, and (4) game programs. Includes a listing of publishers and…

Presents modified version of a glossary of commonly used terms in instructional computing. Defined as straightforwardly as possible, the terms listed are intended as an aid for foreign language teachers who are newcomers to the field of computer assisted instruction. (SL)

Presents evaluation criteria for reviewing foreign language microcomputer teaching programs. Areas covered include accuracy and authenticity of the language, documentation of the program's goals and uses, presentation of information which embodies sound methods of language instruction, packaging which fosters student interest, and the ease with…

Describes development and implementation of Individualized Instruction programs for foreign languages through a grant at the Ohio State University. Program emphasizes four-skill approach including proficiency in basic skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking. Believes computer assisted instruction program in German adds to high test…

Describes a voice-recognition device which can be used as a complement to computer-assisted language instruction, specifically for students in their first two years of German study. This technology provides the advantage of immediate feedback for the students, regarding their speaking and listening skills--something that has not been possible in…

Describes a computer software program developed as part of an intensive elementary German course that emphasizes vocabulary development and provides a comprehensive review of the grammatical concepts stressed in the accompanying textbook. Suggests that computer assisted instruction be used in a supplementary capacity to reinforce what is learned…

Two educational publishers in the field of language instruction present their views on various issues concerning computer-assisted instruction (CAI). These include: the advantages of CAI, the concerns teachers generally have, arguments for publishers, and the editorial standards that publishers hope to see realized. (SL)

Describes a computer game designed for students of German, which uses techniques of artificial intelligence to create a model of language understanding by computer in an adventure game set in Berlin. In addition to providing a concrete means for testing students' language understanding, the game is a useful, highly motivating, learning mode. (SL)

Describes a problem-solving computer program, "The Refrigerator Game," designed for second language learners, which focuses on the meaning of language, rather than its form. The success of this program proves that students can learn well by focusing on a game's goal, rather than on language itself. (SL)

Describes a computer-assisted instruction project used for students of German. Because the program has features built in which gives it versatility, it is beneficial to several levels of instruction in the language department and it also involves more than one faculty member in using the computer. (SL)

Reports on a project in communicative computer-assisted instruction for students of German, which incorporates elements of surprise and variety into the sessions with the computer. Using a notional format, word games are used in relevant ways, creating a similarity to real conversation. This, in turn, gives the students a normal range of…

Expectations of what technology can contribute to language learning vary considerably. This paper discusses the interface between technology and the students and teachers using it. More specifically, it includes a report on teacher and student reactions to two HyperCard programs used at different levels of language instruction over a two-year…

An American professor of German recounts his experience getting his university to acquire the necessary computer equipment for computer-assisted foreign language instruction. Such difficulties as acquiring funding, developing an actual program in German, reworking the program, and finally, "selling" the idea to the other language professors, are…

Describes experiment designed to take advantage of available computer technology which can help college students learn foreign languages and also help teaching assistants become better prepared instructors. This program allows language teachers without knowledge of a computer language to develop lessons for individualized, topically focused…

The limited studies conducted thus far indicate that interactive videodisc technology can be of great help to foreign-language learning. The sophisticated technology and the potential for development of effective learning materials offer advantages over other approaches. (MSE)