FACETS many-facet Rasch analysis software was utilized to look at two consecutive administrations of a large-scale second language oral assessment in the form of a peer group discussion task with Japanese English-major university students. Results are discussed. (Author/VWL)

Argues for the development of tailor-made computer-assisted learning (CAL) tutorials with the aim of replacing traditional lectures in second-language instruction. Issues related to the production of multimedia modular templates and prototypes, including module design, design criteria, methodology, and learner interaction, are described. (seven…

Highlights methods of teaching grammar that have been adapted for computer-assisted language learning. (Author/VWL)

Reports results of a case study of the implementation of a set of culturally-based computer programs designed to accompany a college level 1 French text. Findings indicated that understanding college level students' beliefs about language learning is helpful if innovative language programs are to be successful. (Author/AEF)

Looks ahead to some of the software capabilities soon to be available on the Web for helping learners notice linguistic form in text and Web-based audio materials. Points out that some of the general purpose authoring tools on the Web are ideally suited for developing English as a Second or Other Language learning materials. (Author/VWL)

The seminal work by Ericsson and Simon established verbal reports as a genuine way to get a glimpse into the "black box" of the workings of the human mind, and it is now recognised as a method of value in the pursuit of new knowledge relating to, for instance, learner strategies, cognitive strategies, human-computer interaction, and functionality…

This paper describes a CALL approach which integrates software for speaker independent continuous speech recognition with embodied virtual agents and virtual worlds to create an immersive environment in which learners can converse in the target language in contextualised scenarios. The result is a self-access learning package: SPELL (Spoken…

A pilot study at a local school explores a virtual world during English lessons. The objective of applying a Vygotskian experimental design to the study is to investigate the potential of software, interaction and integration related to problem-solving defined as text composition in a foreign language. Focus of research and practices is on the…

The "newSLATE" environment provides a Web-based infrastructure for language learning. Its design and implementation were driven by the difficulties of non-Roman-script text handling. The software features a cross-platform approach to non-Roman text input and handling and a novel method for automatically generating online quizzes from study…

The basic tenet of constructivism is that learners construct their knowledge on their own by associating new with prior information. The significance of the learner's interaction with his/her social and physical environment is here of great importance; the learner is at the center of the learning process while the tutor is seen as a facilitator, a…

This article explains the characteristics of three categories of Computer assisted language learning (CALL) programs that can be used in classrooms with conventional computer systems. The first category is dedicated programs, those in which the teacher cannot make any changes. The second is authoring programs in which teachers can insert their own…

This guide offers a comprehensive outline of computer assisted language learning (CALL) resources, tools, consultants, and graduate programs. Resources include companies, organizations, products, and support services for CALL; tools are the curriculum materials, both commercially and noncommercially available. Consultants listed are Computer…

Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) is introduced and some of its benefits for foreign language teaching are discussed. The focus of the discussion is on fundamental principles and advantages of the CALL methodology, along with types of learner's role. Advantages of CALL are identified, including the versatility of presentation of material,…

Aspects of interactive video use in the second language classroom are examined. The major components and equipment considerations for an interactive videodisk and computer system are outlined, including factors in the choice of a system interface. The use and control of interactive video for accessing scenes to be played are described, and…

TXTPRO, a computer program developed as a graduate-level research tool for descriptive linguistic analysis, produces simple alphabetic and word frequency lists, analyzes word combinations, and develops concordances. With modifications, a teacher could enter the program into a mainframe or a microcomputer and use it for text analyses to develop…