The College of Languages and Translation (COLT) prepares translators and interpreters. Some of the courses that the students take are language courses such as listening, speaking, reading, writing, vocabulary, grammar, and 4 types of interpreting courses (simultaneous, consecutive, liaison and sight). COLT has installed 4 multimedia language labs…

This article proposes a model for integrating text-to-speech software (TTS) in students' interpreting training and practice. It shows the aims of the model, the definition of TTS, the advantages of using TTS, how to search for TTS, instructional stages with TTS, and the interpreting instructor's role. The students can use TTS software online;…

This article proposes a model for teaching interpreting for tourism purposes. It shows the aims of the model, interpreting materials, training strategies, training environment and assessment techniques. The model aims to train students to interpret in English with or without prior preparation or knowledge of the topic and without taking or reading…

Feedback has been one of the important elements of learning and teaching theories and still pervades the literature and instructional models, especially computer and web-based ones. However, the mechanisms about feedback dominating the fundamentals of all the instructional models designed for self-learning have changed considerably with the…

Tapping into technology for foreign language learning is important, given that such learning is seen as vital to the nation's economic and cultural well-being. The development of technology has dovetailed nicely with a new paradigm of foreign language education, says Marty Abbott, director of education for the American Council on the Teaching of…

Describes a variety of possible uses of computers in second- language instruction that go beyond traditional drill-and-practice programs. (Author/JL)

An inexpensive way to foster interactive, participatory learning in the language laboratory through communicative tasks is described. Problems with traditional approaches are discussed, and enthusiastic reactions from both students and teachers to the University of Maryland-College Park multimedia approach are reported. (39 references) (LB)

This digest highlights non-Internet technology for teaching and learning foreign languages. Specific sections discuss (1) software for language teaching and learning; (2) authoring aids; (3) language lab systems; (3) networked multimedia; and (4) distance learning via satellite. (Contains 7 references and a list of 17 resources for further…

A review of stages in the evolution of the language laboratory shows that its function has changed in the past 20 years. Originally it was described as a way of providing a means for abundant practice of audiolingual drills. Currently, it is described as a learning center with multiple resources and functions. It might be characterized as a…

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)

The conventional language lab, though it motivates few students, lingers on at many institutions. While poor study habits contribute to the lab's low impact on language acquisition, an equally credible possibility is that the traditional language lab's "audio-only" technology is ill-suited to the primary cognitive styles of today's video-oriented…

Multimedia computer programs that can be produced in a few hours by faculty or language laboratory staff could change the way colleges teach foreign languages. New tools allow exercises to be custom tailored to suit student interests and skill levels and to use authentic texts in new ways. Initial response by faculty users has been enthusiastic.…

Presents a history of the use of technology in second-language instruction, beginning with the 1960s and the grammar translation method; through the audiolingual movement and language laboratories; into emerging use of tape recorders, videotapes, and computer-assisted language learning; and up through computer-assisted instruction, distance…

Language laboratories, VCRs, and microcomputers are not labor-saving devices for the teacher. Technology-mediated lessons demand as much, if not more, planning effort than does conventional instruction. Four points to consider in planning are (1) selection of medium; (2) selection of software; (3) amount of student control; and (4) amount of…

Recent trends in education have pushed for multimedia to be made a part of every effective language program. As a result, language programs around the world are incorporating computer labs into their curricula. However, as many instructors and administrators are unfamiliar with this newer technology, integrating computer assisted language learning…