Suggests that, in considering the significance of emerging computer and information technologies, evaluators and potential users must consider not only the technologies' technical merits but also the contexts for their use, the economies of the technologies, their market perception, and their appearance within a methodological paradigm. (CB)

Some ways of producing quality software for language instruction are discussed, including three kinds of systems: authoring or template, freeform, and hybrid. Special features and possible advantages and disadvantages of each type are considered. (Author/MSE)

Early programs for computer-assisted language learning were limited in size and power by the capabilities of the first generation of microcomputers. As these capabilities have increased, it has become possible for language teachers to take advantage of tools originally intended for use in the business world, such as word processors, spreadsheets,…

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)

A discussion of computer software and courseware for second-language instruction outlines considerations for selecting software of various kinds and presents a list of selected computer programs. Suggestions are made for choosing text-specific software, non-text-specific software intended for language instruction, word processors intended for…

While disputing the exaggerated claims for computerized teaching symbolized by Time Magazine's choice of a computer for its 1982 "man of the year," this paper argues that since the technology is omnipresent, and that since it can facilitate learning under certain conditions, teachers should be as informed about it as possible. A discussion of…

A guide to courseware authoring aids for computer-assisted language instruction (CALIS) gives suggestions for the selection and use of programing options and provides an annotated listing of those options. Introductory sections discuss the use of computer-assisted language teaching, the selection of quality courseware, the types of authoring aids…

Describes the results of a research project that tested computer assisted language teaching/learning programs in everyday classroom situations. The evaluative principles and the selection of the programs evaluated are discussed, and the applied techniques borrowed from cognitive psychology in the evaluation of text manipulation programs of the…

A discussion of the usefulness of computer-assisted instruction in the second language classroom focuses on the value of teacher involvement in material development. It outlines an approach for the teacher to use in becoming familiar with existing courseware, describes the concept of authoring systems, defines commonly-used strategies for…

One way for foreign language teachers to evaluate computer software, or courseware, for computer-assisted instruction is to look at it from the point of view of the roles of the courseware author as production manager, curriculum developer, learning specialist, instructional designer, and evaluator. In assessing courseware, teachers should decide…

Designed to help educators use computers comfortably, effectively, and economically as classroom instructional tools, this document focuses on the use of computers for teaching English, English as a Second Language (ESL), and foreign languages. The educational implications of introducing computers into language instruction are discussed with…

Discusses factors to consider when buying software for a computer-assisted foreign language program. These factors include (1) software functions, (2) software distribution, (3) software language, and (4) after-sale support. (SED)

A discussion of computer authoring systems examines the uses and limitations of authoring systems and describes a multifunctional system designed for computer-assisted language instruction and learning. The section on authoring systems in general looks at their evolution and at misunderstandings of their potential and capacity. The system…

Concern is expressed that computer-assisted instruction may quickly become obsolete unless courseware reflects current trends in language learning. Current courseware is criticized as structure-bound and reflecting the 1960s audiolingual approach and for using computer-generated enhancements to cover up essentially trivial exercises. Work done at…

This handbook for computer-assisted instruction in English as a Second Language (ESL) is designed to guide teachers unfamiliar with computer hardware and software through the basic procedures of using the Apple IIe system and ESL software. The handbook begins with introductory sections on the growth of microcomputer use in schools, the advantages…