Recent advances in digital video have lead to a convergence of mainstream entertainment (e.g., movies) and language learning tools. An example is a software system/media player called L1, which provides interactive subtitling and learning support for DVD entertainment products. Convergence of entertainment and learning resources raises challenging…

This article discusses some pedagogical implications of a research project carried out at the University of Antwerp between 1996 and 2004. Its objective was to explore the boundaries of a pedagogy-driven approach in research-based research-oriented CALL system design. The starting point was the observation of a serious decrease in…

LABLIB, a recently-developed Finnish databank for cataloging video, audio, and computer materials for second language instruction, is described. The objective was a computer-based program that would require little or no specialized computer knowledge of the user. The user has 14 search variables (bibliographic, content, format) by which to search…

A study investigated technical methods for simplifying and improving the creation of software for teaching uncommonly taught languages such as Chinese. Research consisted of assessment of existing authoring systems, domestic and overseas, available hardware, peripherals, and software packages that could be integrated into this project. Then some…

An "intelligent" system for constructing computer-assisted pattern drills to be used in second language instruction is proposed. First, some of the difficulties in designing intelligent error analysis are discussed briefly. Two major approaches to error analysis in computer-assisted instruction, pattern matching and parsing, are described, and…

A discussion of the use of Computer Mediated Communication (CMC) in the second language classroom focuses on whether the kinds of CMC available provide appropriate forms of interpersonal interaction to enhance learning. A review of recent research looks at what is known about the ideal conditions for learning a second language, the role of the…

German business correspondence is an essential part of a business German course because of the difficulties involved in using the required language style and because it is integral to business practice in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. A recently published text by W. Schmitz and D. Scheiner of the Goethe Institute is reviewed and found to be…

Describes a word processor exercise (using WordPerfect or similar software) for Spanish language students that was easy to design, convenient for students (who could perform the exercise on their own time), and effective in helping students review their lessons. (CB)

Describes the development and implementation of computer software for use in the University of New Hampshire's foreign language programs, covering the evaluation of commercial software and faculty members' use of the MacLang authoring program to create their own software. (CB)

Discusses the contribution and use of personal computers in second language teaching and learning, including consideration of the previous general lack of use of IBM computers and of IBM's establishment of Advanced Education Projects at 19 universities to set up computer-assisted instructional programs. (CB)

Reports the results of three years of developing computer-assisted instruction in Italian for college first-year courses and discusses the program's advantages and disadvantages, including the use of the Commodore 64 computer, the alleviation of computer fear, computer mastery, and the possibility of error. (Author/CB)

This paper demonstrates that the axis between cognition and multimedia language teaching is very short by introducing three fundamental concepts: (1) mediatizing, i.e., the direct use of any medium as a way of expressing oneself; (2) multimediatizing, i.e., the choice of a multimedia support to express a didactized informational content; and (3)…

Investigated the capabilities of the Intel's latest video capture board, the Intel Smart Video Recorder Pro. The study provides information about the capabilities of various CD-ROM drives in handling audiovisual files. The final outcome of this study was an objective assessment of the applicability of today's digital video for the purpose of…

Provides background information and basic options of Didascalia, a computer-assisted language learning center at the University of Antwerp (Belgium) in the domain of language methodology and technology. (CK)

Discusses the development and content of Verbochip, a computer assisted language-learning program for learning the use and formation of English verbs and tenses. Outlines the main features of the program's "a la carte" environment, including learning strategies employed and the program's linguistic completeness and didactic accuracy.…